The Victoria's Secret x Rui Zhou Colab

Victoria's Secret has made an exciting announcement in the Chinese lingerie market, joining forces with designer Rui Zhou’s gender-fluid label Rui-Built, to drop a collection later this month. The collection was made to “showcase the beauty and power of the human body,” according to the collaboration teaser video. “I believe that loungewear is a unique product within Victoria’s Secret’s assortment. It can easily shift between casual and formal while encompassing both intimacy and boldness. I aspire to romanticize this captivating contrast,” Zhou added in the same video. Their line includes Zhou’s signature asymmetrical cutout designs with Victoria’s Secret’s basics. 

Founded in 2019, Zhou’s brand gained traction for her knitwear pieces that stretch across one’s body with small accent pearls. Zhou's designs often showcase a balance between minimalistic elegance and avant-garde experimentation, creating an aura of sophistication. The brand's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices is also a notable aspect with a focus on responsible sourcing of materials and fair labor practices.

Chloe and Halle Bailey dressed in Rui Zhou from head to toe. Models: Chloe and Halle Bailey Source: Vogue

Both brands bridge the gap between traditional lingerie and high fashion, demonstrating the evolving nature of lingerie design and reflecting the fashion industry's emphasis on cultural diversity and global influences. The collection features Victoria's Secret's iconic baby pink hue, complemented by Zhou's signature of intricate cutouts. The sexy cuts are a perfect addition that elevates lingerie basics and adds a new look instead of the traditional all-over lace Victoria’s Secret is known for. The seamless fusion of their ideas is evident to any fashion enthusiast, highlighting the collaborative nature of this project. The collaboration between both companies is a perfect match, as they share a common goal of instilling body positivity, making them an ideal partnership. 

Victoria’s Secret and Rui Zhou’s collection will be available to purchase on July 25. Models: N/A Source: My Face Hunter

The sleepwear selection perfectly combines the classic Victoria's Secret silhouette with Zhou's exquisite attention to detail. However, it would have been intriguing to witness Victoria's Secret step outside their comfort zone and include at least one knitwear piece, emphasizing Zhou's creative flair. Including knitwear in the collection would bring an intriguing dimension, as it serves as Zhou's signature style, while also offering a fresh perspective on breathable loungewear for Victoria's Secret. This collaboration serves as a significant milestone for Chinese designers, effectively bridging the gap between American and Chinese fashion brands. Not only does it bring well-deserved recognition to Chinese designers, but it also broadens the horizons of American fashion enthusiasts. 

Victoria’s Secret past collaboration with For Love & Lemons embarked on an exciting collection including romantic and whimsical designs that had intricate lacework, delicate embroidery with feminine silhouettes. By merging their ideas, the collaboration aimed to create a range of pieces that exuded sensuality, romance and a touch of bohemian flair. On the other hand, Victoria’s Secret with Zhou definitely was on the more sultry side of lingerie that was much more minimalistic. 

Personally, I have a strong appreciation for the upcoming collection, although I do believe it would have been beneficial to showcase the pieces on a more diverse range of body types. It was refreshing to see Chinese models wear the pieces, but in order to truly embrace body positivity, it would be encouraging to include plus-sized or disabled models as well.