Behind the Scenes with Victoria’s Secret

On the heels of last year’s popular Designer Collection, Victoria’s Secret is upping the ante again with their latest trousseau, available online and in select stores starting tomorrow. The collection incorporates the famous VS bra fit with additions like Swiss lace, hand-embroidery details, and sumptuous fabrics typically used by couture houses.

“It’s such an exciting move for us, to be able to do something that’s so ethereal and beautiful,” says Chief Design Officer Janie Schaffer. “And I think [the public] now sees us as a lingerie retailer, more than just a shop that sells knickers and bras.”

Schaffer views the collection—which offers everything from bras and panties to floor-length gowns and corsets—as a nod to the European lingerie sensibility. “Americans have completely changed their viewpoint of lingerie, I think, over the last few years,” she says. “People are now wearing sets. The beautiful Chantilly lace bras are selling the best.”

W also went behind the scenes for an even closer look at the new line and to meet Barbara Palvin, the face of the Designer Collection (click through to see all of the pictures). “Our girls are always, they’re just so almost freakishly beautiful,” says Schaffer. “It’s like they just had a baby but there they are, and it’s like perfection.”

Photos: Greg Kadel