6 Steps to Cope with Negative Body Image During the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back this Wednesday night—again. After a long hiatus starting in 2019 due to declining viewership, lack of body diversity, and company controversy, the show made a comeback in 2024 with a new look. This time, it’s leaning into inclusivity and empowerment, featuring models like Alex Consani, Anok Yai, Ashley Graham, and even icons like Carla Bruni.
But let’s be honest—even with a more diverse lineup, watching a parade of gorgeous people strut down the runway in lingerie can still bring up some tough feelings. If you’ve ever struggled with body image, the show can feel more like a highlight reel of comparison than an empowering celebration. And that can take a toll—on your self-esteem, your mood, and sometimes even your relationship with food or your body.
So how do you watch something like this without spiraling into self-criticism?
Here are 6 ways to protect your peace while tuning in:
1. It’s Just a Really Well-Made Ad
At its core, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is one big commercial. The goal? To get you to associate their products with confidence, beauty, and sex appeal—and then go shopping.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to treat yourself to something cute. Just remember, ads are designed to press emotional buttons. That doesn’t mean they reflect reality.
2. Check the Body Standards on Display
Yes, the show now includes a few more body types, but it still leans heavily on thin, tall, hourglass figures. Seeing one type of body over and over can trick your brain into thinking that's what “normal” or “ideal” looks like.
Reality check: how many people in your life actually look like runway models? Probably not many—and that’s completely okay.
3. Models Are Paid to Look This Way
This is their job. Looking a certain way on camera is part of how they earn a living. What you don’t see are the private chefs, personal trainers, stylists, and glam teams making it all happen behind the scenes.
Holding yourself to that standard isn’t just unfair—it’s unrealistic.
4. Catch the “All or Nothing” Thinking
If you notice thoughts like,
“Starting tomorrow, I’m cutting out sugar and hitting the gym every day.”
Pause.
Ask yourself: Is this coming from a place of care—or from a place of punishment?
Extreme diets and rigid workout plans can do more harm than good. Your body deserves nourishment, movement that feels good, and rest—not punishment for not fitting a mold.
5. Ask: “What Am I Missing Right Now?”
When negative body image takes over, it’s easy to miss the moment you’re actually in.
Ask yourself:
“What am I missing while I focus on my body?”
Are you watching the show with your best friend? Is your favorite performer on stage? Did your body help you do something meaningful today?
Even the smallest moment of gratitude can bring you back to the present.
6. Challenge the Story You’re Telling About Your Body
When you find yourself wishing you looked different—smaller, curvier, taller—ask:
“What story am I telling myself about my body?”
Often, we connect appearance with self-worth. But your body is just one part of who you are. It doesn’t define your intelligence, your values, your creativity, or your kindness.
And all of those things? They matter so much more than a number on the scale or a dress size.
When It’s More Than Just a Bad Body Image Day…
Sometimes, a few reminders like these are enough to get through the night. But if body image is something you struggle with often, you don’t have to face it alone.
I help people move beyond the pressure to “fix” their bodies and toward a relationship built on respect, compassion, and acceptance—no crash diets or self-loathing required.
Ready to feel more at peace in your body?
📩 Reach out here to schedule a free consultation
🧠 Therapy available for body image, disordered eating, anxiety, and depression
💬 Virtual & in-person sessions available
You deserve to feel at home in your body—on runway nights, and every other day too.
