Victoria’s Secret model Victoria Lee on hair spray challenges and her next big job

Victoria’s Secret model Victoria Lee on hair spray challenges and her next big job

After being tapped for her very first Victoria’s Secret runway in 2017, which airs tonight in Australia, it seems the world is Victoria Lee’s oyster.

David Jones announced Lee as their newest ambassador days after filming for the show finished. The Narrandera native spoke to Vogue about the challenges of walking the Victoria’s Secret show for the very first time and what it means to the model to be working for the iconic David Jones.

What does it mean for you to be tapped by a brand like David Jones?

“It’s incredible - I’m still pinching myself. David Jones is such a loved, iconic and trusted Australian brand. To be a part of the David Jones family and to follow in such inspirational footsteps as Megan Gale and Miranda Kerr is a real honour and I’m thrilled!”

Tell us about your Victoria's Secret debut - what were the highlights? 

“The highlight was working with all the talented people involved. So much work and effort goes into the show behind the scenes - it’s 12 months of planning. So simply to be involved in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is amazing. Also the girls I was there with - we spent four days together in Shanghai. I feel so lucky to have enjoyed my first show with such a lovely group of girls. So warm, encouraging and welcoming.”

What was the best advice you received from your fellow models?

“Adrenalin will carry you! Don’t stress about your shoes! We are all in the same boat and it is challenging - just do your best. And have fun!”

Was there anything about walking in the 2017 VS show that surprised you? 

“How much fun it was!! Of course I had butterflies but I thought I would be more nervous or anxious. When I was standing backstage and during practice runs I was just having a really good time and ready to go.”

How long did it take you to de-Victoria’s Secret yourself after the show? 

“This year there were no tans. So that wasn’t an issue but I did have a lot of hair spray to get rid of!”

What's the biggest lesson you've learnt form VS that you will take with your throughout your career? 

“Be confident. Be yourself. Enjoy the moment.”

Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing Shows How You Can Turn Any T-Shirt Into Punk Lingerie

Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing Shows How You Can Turn Any T-Shirt Into Punk Lingerie

Earlier this year, Victoria’s Secret and Olivier Rousteing joined forces to create the VS x Balmain collection, making graffiti-covered T-shirts and ’70s rock–inspired finery accessible to the masses. While Rousteing’s in-your-face aesthetic translated into the lingerie giant’s edgiest collection to date, the designer reveals in a new video that you don’t even need to buy the collection to get its signature look. Behind the scenes at the brand’s Shanghai show, Rousteing delivered a crash course in how to elevate a basic tee into something exceptional. Utilizing items that you’re sure to have lying around the house—safety pins, beads, and a sharp pair of scissors—he transformed Josephine Skriver, Ming Xi, and Romee Strijd into the newest members of the Balmain army.

While Rousteing is a regular in the front row at the annual VS show, this year marks the first time he has worked with the brand. Making the jump from spectator to being a major part of the production came with challenges. “It’s totally different when you’re a guest. You just enjoy the show. When you’re actually collaborating and creating your own collection, you’re really stressed!” he shared backstage. 

Working throughout the course of the year on the project, Rousteing enjoyed seeing his vision move from a sketch to reality, elaborate Angel wings and all. “After I shared [my drawings] with VS, they were like, ‘Yes, we love this! Let’s make it happen.’ With Balmain, the craftsmanship is so important but I have to say, the result is completely in line with the Parisian house that I come from. I want my clothes to look perfect and for the girls to feel good and powerful in them.”

Judging by the powerful opening segment filled with Angels in plaid bustiers and studded wings, Rousteing got his wish. Watch as Rousteing and the Angels remix T-shirts into daring crop tops, skirts, and more.