Model Bianca Balti first walked the Victoria’s Secret runway in 2005, and many of her fans were hoping she would take to the runway again in 2025.
The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show took place on Wednesday, October 15. It included stunning models that have worked with the brands for years and other new faces. However, one person who was missing was Balti, despite her bravely requesting to walk in their latest show.
Bianca Balti Was Not Included in Victoria’s Secret Show
In 2024, Balti was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer. She had hoped that her inclusion in the fashion show would have brought awareness, and she is opening up about the message she sent to the organizers.
“I reached out to Victoria’s Secret and offered myself to walk in this year’s Fashion Show,” she wrote in a self-published essay shared on Substack. “I don’t know exactly where the courage came from but I did it. The only things we regret in life are the chances we don’t take. So I asked myself, ‘What do I have to lose?’ and went for it. I searched LinkedIn for email addresses and sent this open letter to anyone I could find at the company.”
Bianca Balti Discusses Inclusivity
Balti applauded the brand for becoming more inclusive but noted that she should have been there to represent women who are bravely fighting cancer. “Inclusivity means making your audience feel seen,” she wrote. “And here’s the truth — 1 in 3 women will face cancer in their lifetime. 1 in 8 will face breast cancer. Thousands will face ovarian cancer. I am one of them.”
Balti also shared how one day before the show, she celebrated her “one year since my first chemotherapy session” and that the Victoria’s Secret Show was being held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Of these two things, she said, “Life doesn’t script moments this aligned by accident.”
She continued, “I’m not the youngest, curviest, or fittest. But I am strong, brave, and alive — and I’m still damn sexy. I wear my scars proudly and rock my newly grown hair with pride. Having me on that runway wouldn’t just be a personal dream fulfilled; it would send a message to millions of women.”
Bianca Balti’s Fans Show Their Support
Fans have shared their thoughts on Balti’s most recent photo on Instagram, which was posted six days ago on October 13. Many feel that the brand’s decision not to include her was unjust.
“Your too good for Victoria’s Secret,” a fan wrote. “THEY SHOULDVE LET YOU WALK. YOURE gorgeous strong, inspirational to many,” another fan shared.
“You are a real angel. Thank you for all you do,” a third comment reads.
Other reactions include, “Dear Bianca, You are suchhhhh an inspiration!!! I admire you and love you from the bottom of my heart. I read your VS story…” and “@victoriassecret don’t deserved u.”
