Karlie Kloss Reveals Why She Parted Ways With Victoria's Secret

By Emily Lee

July 2, 2019

2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show In Shanghai - Show

Karlie Kloss has officially hung up her wings. The 26-year-old model discussed her decision to part ways with Victoria's Secret in a new interview with British Vogue. The last time Karlie walked in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was back in 2017 after taking a two year hiatus from from her partnership with the lingerie brand.

“The reason I decided to stop working with Victoria’s Secret was I didn’t feel it was an image that was truly reflective of who I am and the kind of message I want to send to young women around the world about what it means to be beautiful,” Karlie explained. “I think that was a pivotal moment in me stepping into my power as a feminist, being able to make my own choices and my own narrative, whether through the companies I choose to work with, or through the image I put out to the world.”

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To me this cover is the culmination of so many forces in my life. The opportunity to work with this dream team is the privilege of a life time. @britishvogue is a publication that has supported me since the inception of my career. #StevenMeisel is the greatest mentor a model could ever have, it is on his set that I learned what excellence in our industry truly means. @patmcgrathreal and @guidopalau bring it all to life with their unparalleled talent and vision. @edward_enninful has played a pivotal role in my life personally and professionally since the day we met, and this cover is an extraordinary milestone to celebrate this next chapter in my life. The story is beautifully captured by my friend and colleague @elainewelteroth in a more raw and real way than I have ever shared before. This cover means more to me than anyone could possibly know. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart 💚🙏🏼✨

A post shared by Karlie Kloss (@karliekloss) on Jul 1, 2019 at 9:24am PDT

Back in 2017, Karlie defended her decision to return to the controversial show after originally walking away in 2015. “A show like Victoria’s Secret is so relevant in the world we live in today,” she explained to The Telegraph in 2018. “There’s something really powerful about a woman who owns her sexuality and is in charge."

"A show like this celebrates that and allows all of us to be the best versions of ourselves. Whether it’s wearing heels, make-up or a beautiful piece of lingerie — if you are in control and empowered by yourself, it’s sexy,” she continued. “I personally love investing in a powerful scent or piece of lingerie, but I ensure it’s on my terms. I like to set a positive example, so would never be part of something I didn’t believe in.”

Though her comments are conflicting, Karlie opened up about finding her voice over the course of her career. She revealed she feared losing out on new modeling jobs and opportunities if she spoke out against something she disagreed with. “I think I was fearful that I would lose a job or lose my position if I said I didn’t want to do something,” she told British Vogue. “But I did not lose out on jobs. If anything, the more I exercised the power of my voice, the more I earned respect from my peers.”

“And I earned more respect for myself,” she continued. “Only now do I have the confidence to stand tall – all 6ft 2in of me – and know the power of my voice.”

Photo: Getty