A Dream Realized
"Stepping into a dream: From Angel to a Victoria Secret ANGEL," the 23-year-old shared on Instagram, perfectly capturing the weight of this moment. Her caption—"I'm finally getting my wings"—reflects both the literal feathered accessories she'll don and the metaphorical lift in her career. What stands out is her feeling that this opportunity is "like destiny," hinting that this isn’t merely a business deal but a significant convergence of her personal and professional dreams.Victoria's Secret's announcement video featured Reese in a pink robe, black lingerie, and white feather wings—the classic "Angel" look that has represented the brand's style for years. Their caption, "Angel Reese, welcome to the runway. The first professional athlete angel...major is an understatement," highlights the groundbreaking nature of this partnership.
The Evolution of an Icon
Reese's journey to this moment has been anything but ordinary. Starting out as a multi-sport athlete in Maryland, she transformed into "Bayou Barbie" at LSU and now shines as "Chi Barbie" with the Chicago Sky, constantly breaking the mold. Her achievements extend far beyond the basketball court—she's crafted a brand that weaves together fashion, business, and social impact, all with the same passion she brings to her game.Her presence comes at a crucial time for Victoria's Secret, which had to cancel its iconic fashion show in 2019 due to backlash over its limited beauty standards. The brand made a comeback last year with a more inclusive vision, and having Reese not only attend but also walk in this year's show highlights their commitment to change—and how perfectly Reese represents this new direction.
More Than an Athlete
What makes Reese's debut on the runway so special is how it builds on her already impressive fashion presence. From gracing the cover of Vogue in January 2025 to attending the Met Gala and collaborating with Reebok on her own signature shoe, she's been steadily establishing her fashion credentials alongside her athletic accomplishments.
Her business savvy has been clear since her college days, where she emerged as one of the highest-earning college athletes through NIL deals. Now, with partnerships that include Reebok, Hershey's, and even her own McDonald's meal, she's created a thriving commercial ecosystem that complements her athletic career rather than competing with it.
The Significance of Timing
Reese's runway debut comes at a pivotal moment in her basketball journey. After an incredible rookie season where she not only shattered the WNBA single-season rebounding record but also earned a spot on the All-Star team, she has firmly established herself as one of the league's most thrilling young stars. Although her sophomore season was marred by injury, she still managed to lead the league in rebounds per game for the second year in a row.
This fashion show appearance during the WNBA offseason highlights how modern female athletes are finding ways to boost their earning potential and brand presence all year long—a vital strategy in a league where the top salaries still lag behind those in men's professional sports.
Changing the Game
Reese's moment on the runway symbolizes more than just her personal achievements; it marks a significant change in how society perceives female athletes. Unlike previous generations who often felt torn between being recognized as serious competitors and indulging in fashion and beauty, Reese and her peers are showing that these passions can not only coexist but also complement one another.Her bold embrace of both her athletic talent and her femininity—from her signature eyelash extensions and long pink nails to her fierce competitiveness on the court—has become a key part of her brand's charm. She’s not sacrificing one for the other; instead, she’s weaving them together into a unified identity that resonates with a diverse audience.
The Business of Being Angel
Reese's partnership with Victoria's Secret is a perfect fit for her larger business vision. As a part-owner of Togethxr, alongside icons like Sue Bird, and with her own foundation dedicated to empowering girls through sports, education, and financial literacy, she's crafting an empire that goes well beyond just endorsement deals.
Her recent launch of a signature shoe with Reebok and her upcoming cover feature on NBA 2K26 highlight how she's turning her basketball achievements into real business opportunities that will last long after her playing days are over.
A New Standard
For the next generation of female athletes looking up to her, Reese's moment on the runway expands their view of what's achievable. She's proving that excellence in sports can lead to opportunities that past generations could only dream of—and that being multifaceted isn't a distraction from greatness; it can actually be a part of what makes it shine.As she gets ready to swap her basketball sneakers for runway heels, Angel Reese isn't just moving from one world to another—she's illustrating that the most exciting place often lies at the crossroads of seemingly different fields. In doing so, she's not just earning her wings; she's inspiring an entire generation of female athletes to soar.
Image Credit: Instagram