As the show unfolded, Hadid’s performance raised eyebrows. With her hair dyed blonde for the occasion, she appeared to battle the weight of the wings, walking with a noticeable slowness compared to her usual stride. During her final walk, she was observed looking down and gripping the straps of her wings, seemingly trying to redistribute the heavy load. While she maintained a composed expression, her body language suggested a certain level of strain, leading to a flurry of comments on social media from concerned fans.
One TikTok user remarked, “She was struggling,” while another echoed sentiments of worry, stating, “I thought she was gonna fall.” Such reactions are not uncommon in the high-pressure world of fashion, where models often face the challenge of performing under physically demanding conditions. Some fans speculated that her recent struggles with Lyme disease, which she has battled since 2013, might be a contributing factor. Observers noted that Hadid had a flare-up of the illness leading up to the show, further intensifying the scrutiny of her performance.
Despite the concerns, not all comments were negative. Some social media users defended Hadid, attributing her slower walk to the sheer weight of her wings. One supporter emphasized, “I think the wings were just heavy,” while another pointed out that the closing Angel’s wings are typically known for their extravagant and cumbersome designs. This insight into the fashion industry’s expectations underscores the physical toll that runway shows can impose on models, particularly with intricate outfits that prioritize spectacle over comfort.
Hadid’s appearance on the runway came just a month after her mother, Yolanda Hadid, shared poignant images on social media from a hospital visit. In those photos, Bella was seen receiving IV treatment, appearing distressed and vulnerable. Yolanda, a former star of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” took to Instagram to express her admiration for her daughter’s resilience. She described Bella as a “badass” and a “survivor,” emphasizing the emotional and physical challenges her daughter has faced in dealing with a chronic illness.
“No child is supposed to suffer in their body with an incurable chronic disease,” Yolanda wrote, praising Bella’s bravery and determination to continue fighting for her health amidst the many obstacles she has encountered. “I am so proud of the fighter that you are,” she added, offering a heartfelt message of support and solidarity. This public display of love and encouragement serves as a reminder of the personal battles that many individuals, including public figures, face behind the scenes.
In the days following the fashion show, Bella was spotted walking through the streets of Paris, seemingly regaining her composure and confidence. The juxtaposition between her runway struggle and subsequent public appearances highlights the complexity of her life as a model navigating health challenges while meeting the demanding expectations of the fashion industry.
The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a highly anticipated event within the fashion calendar, showcases not just the latest trends but also the incredible artistry behind each design. The models, including Hadid, are expected to embody the spirit of the brand while handling the physical challenges that come with the territory. As such, it is crucial for fans and followers to understand the realities that models face, including the toll that costumes and performance pressures can take on their bodies and minds.
Hadid’s candidness about her experience during the show serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in an industry often characterized by its relentless pursuit of perfection. As more conversations about mental and physical health continue to emerge in the fashion world, Hadid’s story adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, revealing the human side of a profession that is often shrouded in glamour and glitz.
Ultimately, Bella Hadid’s experience at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show reflects broader themes of resilience, support, and the challenges faced by those working under the spotlight. It underscores the necessity for open dialogue about health and well-being in the high-stakes environment of fashion, encouraging both industry professionals and fans to foster an atmosphere of understanding and compassion. As Hadid continues to navigate her career and health challenges, her journey serves as an inspiration for many grappling with their own struggles, reminding us all that vulnerability can coexist with strength and beauty.