The iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2026, held on October 18 at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California, marked another glittering chapter in the brand’s runway revival.
Featuring global supermodels like Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, and a headline-making $50 million Fantasy Bra debut by Kylie Jenner, the spectacle also celebrated a proud milestone for Indian representation on the global stage.
Two models with strong Indian roots—newcomer Ravleen Varghese and runway veteran Neelam Gill—left an indelible mark with their stunning presentations.
Ravleen Varghese Makes a Stellar Debut
For 25-year-old Ravleen Varghese, walking the 2026 Victoria’s Secret runway marked a monumental career leap:
- The Journey: Hailing from Kodumon in Kerala, Ravleen moved to Delhi at 18 to study design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). Discovered by Anima Creative Management, she transitioned from design student to international model, making her NYFW debut in 2022 and working with top labels, including celebrated Indian designer Sabyasachi.
- The Look: Varghese made her grand Victoria’s Secret debut across two distinct looks—first in a classic pink lace lingerie set, followed by a sleek black-and-white ensemble shared alongside models Luza Perote and Malika El Maslouhi.
Neelam Gill Returns for Her Third Consecutive Year
While Varghese debuted, British model of Indian origin Neelam Gill cemented her status as a Victoria’s Secret regular, returning for her third consecutive appearance following successful runs in 2024 and 2025.
- The Heritage Look: Gill stood out on the runway wearing a striking, Indian-inspired pink-and-gold embellished top, paired with a heavily embroidered multicoloured skirt, delicate gold body chains, and vibrant neon-orange hoop earrings.
- Pioneering Career: Born in England to Punjabi Sikh parents, Gill began modelling at 13 and made history at age 18 as the first Indian-origin model to star in a Burberry campaign. Her stellar portfolio includes campaigns for Dior, L’Oréal Paris, and collaborations with Indian couturier Rohit Bal.
A Growing Global Footprint for Indian Talent
The simultaneous success of Varghese and Gill highlights the expanding presence of South Asian talent across major international fashion capitals. As global houses increasingly celebrate diverse roots, both models showcase inspiring, distinct pathways to the pinnacle of high-fashion runways.
