The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, renowned for showcasing opulent lingerie and dazzling models, is set to make a spectacular return in 2026, prominently featuring its legendary Fantasy Bra. The announcement was made by the brand on 15th October, revealing that the show will take place on 18th October.
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This year’s Fantasy Bra is the result of an exciting collaboration with luxury jewellers JACOB & CO. According to the brand’s social media, this extravagant piece aims to “make fashion history.” Jacob Arabo, head of the jewellers, hinted at the innovative design, which will include a rectangular angel-cut stone and various other sparkling gemstones. “When the model’s actually walking, the movement will create a significant visual impact,” he stated, suggesting that this year’s bra aims to capture every light and spark.
The Fantasy Bra has an illustrious history, first making its appearance in 1996. The original model, known as the Million Dollar Miracle Bra, was unveiled exclusively with supermodel Claudia Schiffer, featured in promotional materials but not on the runway. Valued at $1 million, it boasted over 100 carats of diamonds and was designed by a team of private jewellers in New York City.
Following the success of the first Fantasy Bra, each subsequent edition has upped the ante in terms of extravagance. In 1997, Tyra Banks became the face of the $3 million Diamond Dream Bra, crafted by the luxury jeweller Harry Winston. This creation was notable for its 100 diamonds around the neckline, culminating in a striking 42-carat pear-shaped diamond insert.
The opulence continued in 2003 when Heidi Klum donned the Fantasy Bra, then valued at $11 million. This remarkable piece required 370 hours of labour and featured a central diamond weighing 70 carats, making it the second largest diamond of its kind globally. Yet, perhaps the most iconic of all was the 2000 Red Hot Fantasy Bra, modelled by Gisele Bündchen, which sported an eye-watering price tag of $15 million, adorned with 1,300 gemstones, including 300 carats of Thai rubies.
Despite its historical significance, the Fantasy Bra isn’t merely about the bling; it is woven into the narratives of the models who have proudly worn it. In 2014, Victoria’s Secret upped the stakes by introducing two Fantasy Bras designed by Mouawad, each with a price of $2 million and laden with 16,000 gems. Supermodels Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima shared the spotlight for this unique occasion, highlighting the camaraderie within the brand’s ranks.
The most recent Fantasy Bra, worn by Elsa Hosk in 2018, retained its status as an eye-catching masterpiece, valued at $1 million. This iteration included over 2,100 Swarovski Created Diamonds complemented by responsibly sourced topaz, all set in sterling silver. Hosk shared her emotions when she first tried it on, excitedly describing the overwhelming thrill of being selected for such a prestigious honour.
As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 fashion show, excitement surrounding the Fantasy Bra continues to grow. There is no denying that it has become more than just a piece of lingerie; it is now a symbol of luxury, artistry, and collaboration within the fashion industry. The upcoming show is poised to remind us of the unique blend of glamour and creativity that Victoria’s Secret has historically represented on the runway.
With the revival of the Fantasy Bra, fans and followers of Victoria’s Secret will undoubtedly be on high alert, awaiting the unveiling of this unforgettable piece. The legacy of the Fantasy Bra promises to captivate audiences once again, establishing itself as a quintessential element in the brand’s storied history.