Who Made Victoria Secret
Victoria’s Secret is one of the most recognizable lingerie brands in the world, known for its glamorous runway shows, signature fragrances, and iconic pink branding. But how did this global fashion empire begin? This blog delves into the origins of Victoria’s Secret, its founder, and how it evolved into a multi-billion-dollar company.
The Founder: Roy Raymond | Who Made Victoria Secret
Victoria’s Secret was founded in 1977 by Roy Raymond, an American businessman who wanted to revolutionize the lingerie shopping experience. At the time, most department stores offered limited selections of lingerie, often displayed in ways that made male shoppers uncomfortable. Raymond envisioned a store where men could shop for lingerie without embarrassment and where women could find elegant, high-quality lingerie in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The Inspiration Behind the Name
The name Victoria’s Secret was chosen to evoke an image of sophistication and class. “Victoria” was a nod to the elegance of the Victorian era, while “Secret” referred to the intimate nature of lingerie. This branding helped create a sense of exclusivity and allure that set the store apart from competitors.
The Early Days and Initial Success
In 1977, Raymond opened the first Victoria’s Secret store in Palo Alto, California. The store was an instant success, and he quickly expanded by launching a mail-order catalog, which helped reach customers beyond California. By 1982, the company had expanded to five stores and was generating about $6 million in annual sales.
The Turning Point: Sale to Leslie Wexner
Despite its initial success, Victoria’s Secret faced financial difficulties due to a lack of broad marketing appeal. In 1982, Leslie Wexner, the founder of The Limited (now L Brands), saw the brand’s potential and purchased Victoria’s Secret for $1 million. Wexner completely transformed the company’s approach, shifting its focus to mainstream female consumers rather than just catering to men shopping for gifts. Under Wexner’s leadership, Victoria’s Secret became a dominant force in the lingerie industry.
The Rise to Global Fame
Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Victoria’s Secret expanded rapidly:
- 1990s: The company introduced its famous Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, featuring supermodels known as “Angels.”
- 2000s: The brand grew into a billion-dollar empire, opening stores worldwide and launching successful product lines, including Victoria’s Secret Beauty.
- 2010s: Despite controversies, Victoria’s Secret remained a major player in the lingerie industry, though facing increasing competition from newer brands that focused on inclusivity and body positivity.
The Legacy of Victoria’s Secret
Today, Victoria’s Secret is still one of the most well-known lingerie brands, with hundreds of stores worldwide. While it has faced criticism and evolving market demands, the company continues to adapt, rebrand, and cater to changing consumer preferences.
Conclusion
What started as a small lingerie store created by Roy Raymond became a global empire under Leslie Wexner. Victoria’s Secret reshaped the lingerie industry, bringing luxury and allure into the mainstream. Though the company has evolved, its impact on fashion, marketing, and branding remains undeniable.
FAQs Related to Who Made Victoria Secret
1. Who created Victoria’s Secret and why?
Victoria’s Secret was founded in 1977 by Roy Raymond and his wife, Gaye. Raymond wanted to create a comfortable environment for men to shop for lingerie, inspired by the elegance of the Victorian era.
2. Why is Victoria’s Secret called ‘Secret’?
The name combines the sophistication of Queen Victoria’s era with the idea of intimate apparel being a “secret” hidden under clothing.
3. Who is the CEO of Victoria’s Secret?
As of 2021, Martin Waters is the CEO of Victoria’s Secret.
4. Who is the billionaire who owns Victoria’s Secret?
Les Wexner, the founder of L Brands, owned Victoria’s Secret until 2021, when the brand became an independent company.
5. What is the real story of Victoria’s Secret?
Originally founded as a lingerie store catering to men buying for their partners, Victoria’s Secret was transformed into a global fashion brand after being purchased by Les Wexner in 1982.
6. What is Victoria’s Secret’s full name?
The official name is simply “Victoria’s Secret.”
7. Who was the highest-paid Victoria’s Secret model?
Gisele Bündchen was one of the highest-paid Victoria’s Secret models during her career.
8. Who owns Pink?
Pink is a sub-brand of Victoria’s Secret, launched to target a younger audience.
9. Who is the richest person in the world?
As of 2025, Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, holds the title of the world’s richest person.
10. Why did Victoria’s Secret end?
Victoria’s Secret has not ended but has undergone major changes, including rebranding efforts and the temporary cancellation of its fashion show in 2019 due to criticism over diversity and inclusivity.
11. Who started L Brands?
Les Wexner founded L Brands in 1963, originally as “The Limited,” before expanding it into a retail empire.
12. Why is Victoria’s Secret so famous?
The brand became famous due to its glamorous fashion shows, supermodel endorsements, and strong brand identity in the lingerie industry.
13. Is Victoria’s Secret a luxury brand?
It is considered a premium brand rather than a luxury brand, as it offers high-quality products but at a more accessible price than traditional luxury lingerie brands.
14. Who owns Bath & Body Works?
Bath & Body Works became an independent company in 2021 after separating from L Brands.
15. Who is the Indian Victoria’s Secret model?
Priyanka Chopra Jonas became associated with Victoria’s Secret as part of its rebranding efforts.
16. Who is the new CEO of Victoria’s Secret?
Martin Waters has been serving as the CEO since 2021.
17. Why do girls wear Victoria’s Secret?
Women choose Victoria’s Secret for its stylish designs, comfort, and the confidence it promotes through its branding.