Candice Swanepoel, the 36-year-old supermodel, shared candid thoughts about her time as a Victoria’s Secret Angel. She spoke with Us Weekly ahead of the brand’s star-studded fashion show in Brooklyn, New York, on October 15.
Swanepoel revealed that despite her public image, she does not always feel "beautiful" or "powerful" in her daily life. The fashion show, however, serves as a significant source of empowerment for her.
"Today, we are powerful and beautiful women, and in my day-to-day, I don’t feel like that," Swanepoel stated. She added that the event "really represents, like, a reminder of my power."
The model debuted in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2007. After many years on the runway, she expressed happiness to continue representing the brand and femininity.
Swanepoel admits she still experiences nerves before stepping onto the catwalk. "I don’t think it ever goes away," she confessed, explaining her desire to always perform her best.
She notes that her nervousness increases each year. Despite this, she feels primarily "excited" for the experience.
Her pre-show mantra is simple: "Just take a deep breath and try to have fun."
As one of the brand’s most veteran models, Swanepoel has witnessed countless looks, from elaborate wings and corsets to dramatic hairstyles. Her fondest memory involves a particular highlight.
"Opening the show with the Fantasy Bra is probably my best memory," she told Us Weekly. In 2013, Swanepoel captivated audiences while wearing the $10 million Fantasy Bra and a matching belt by Mouawad.
The adorned bra featured over 5,400 gems, weighing more than 1,540 carats combined. It showcased 234.04 carats of heart-shaped diamonds, complemented by yellow and blue sapphires totaling 717.89 and 116.86 carats.
These precious gems were meticulously hand-set into an 18-karat yellow gold mold. A prominent 52-carat pear-shaped ruby hung from the center of the piece.
Swanepoel completed the iconic look with white gloves, red velvet heels, and the signature voluminous Angel hairstyle.
"I never thought I would make my first show, so every show is a gift," Swanepoel shared.
She maintains a close bond with the other Angels, describing their relationship as a "sisterhood." They frequently connect, discussing their children, families, and travels.
The fashion shows provide a unique environment for the models to truly catch up. Swanepoel noted it is a space for them to be feminine and support each other amidst the pressure and nerves.
Swanepoel also revealed some of their group chat names. She has a chat called "Mamas" with other mothers and a more lighthearted one titled "B*, what the f?"
Fans can watch the Victoria’s Secret show live at 7 p.m. ET. It will be available across multiple platforms including YouTube, Prime Video, Amazon Live, Instagram, and TikTok.
