The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show returns with Tyra Banks, Kate Moss and Cher bringing fresh energy to the runway

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was mired in nostalgia for its return.

The lingerie parade, which was canceled in 2019 amid criticism that it was outdated, sexist and lacking in diversity, was held on October 15 at the Duggal Greenhouse in Brooklyn, NY. The focus was the same – selling underwear! – The show attempted to evoke a female-centered, inclusive atmosphere. Many familiar faces took the stage.

Although there were certainly “normal” catwalk models – like the Hadid sisters Gigi (29) and Bella (28) doing their thing, the show was additionally represented by its 50 models from 25 countries with different backgrounds, body types and ages .

Ashley Graham, the 36-year-old body diversity and positivity advocate, made her show debut, as did fellow plus-size model Paloma Elsesser, 32.

Valentina Sampaio, 27, and Alex Consani, 21, made history as the first trans models to appear on the show.

Great efforts have been made to bring back models with a long history of the brand. A real “angel”: The American Tyra Banks, who retired from modeling almost 20 years ago, “smizes” her way down the catwalk at the age of 50. Adriana Lima also wore wings again. The Brazilian model, 43, has been responsible for many VS catalogs throughout her career.

The brand also hired catwalk queen Kate Moss for her first-ever show – at age 50. The British model's daughter, Lila Moss, also performed, making it a family affair.

For the first time there was also an all-female line-up of musicians. It was led by 78-year-old Cher, who performed her hits “Strong Enough” and “Believe.” The other performers were K-pop star Lisa, 27, South African singer Tyla, 22, and Australian guitarist Orianthi, 39.

Before the livestream began, executive producer Janie Schaffer welcomed everyone to the show and said that it “covers the entire spectrum.” Schaffer also said the models were cast “for their confidence and fierceness.”

Opening the show, Banks announced that viewers would see “a brand new Victoria's Secret fashion show where women take the reins and steal the spotlight.”

Reaction to the show's revival, which was canceled due to controversy, was mixed. It provided surprises, nostalgic moments and a little more representation. But some felt it didn't go far enough, including Teen Vogue writer Aiyana Ishmael, who said it was “a lot of lip service and little action” towards greater inclusivity.