Cue the new angels: Victoria’s Secrets introduces ten new faces

Since Victoria’s Secret flock of angels flew down the catwalks in 1997, they have been the most talked about aspect of the lingerie brand, turning ordinary models into household names, from Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel to Alessandra Ambrosio. Last week, it was announced that Victoria’s Secret had granted ten new angels their flying licence. After all, if you’re really going somewhere in this empire, you don’t get awards, you get wings!

Since the departure of angels Karlie Kloss and Doutzen Kroes earlier this year, it seemed only fitting that some new faces would fill their place on the bejewelled runway. This makes the list of runway models the longest it has ever been.

Victoria’s Secret commented on the announcement, stating: “The expanded angel line-up gives Victoria’s Secret the largest group of contract models in its history and the most powerful collection of established and emerging models in the world.” So let’s take a look at the new angels.

Elsa Hosk

This Swedish blonde bombshell is no stranger to Victoria’s Secret campaigns, nor any other for that matter. Having started modelling at the age of 14, the now 26-year-old Angel has brands such as Dior, H&M and Guess, already under her belt. She also played professional basketball for two years before being signed to IMG Models. She is definitely one to watch in the modelling world.

Sara Sampaio

Having already won several Portuguese Golden Globes for Best Female Model, Sara has made a name for herself amongst the fashion-friendly folk. Her hobbies off-duty include karate (she’s a brown belt), surfing and playing the violin.

Jasmine Tookes

She started modelling almost ten years ago and has walked in runways for huge fashion houses, including Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs. Her look is elegant and having practised gymnastics for many years, she simply glides down the catwalk in those new wings of hers.

Taylor Hill

One of the youngest angels at just 19, Taylor has already done a lot for the brand, having hosted an event for Victoria’s Secret PINK earlier this year. She has also worked with Chanel, Fendi and H&M. She loves yoga and snowboarding as well as social media: her Instagram followers stand at half a million. All that and she’s still only a teen!

Stella Maxwell

She began wearing her wings back in 2014 as a runway model for Victoria’s Secret. Stella has done her fair bit of travelling: a Belgium-born Irish, brought up in New Zealand, it seems she may have quite a few tales to tell. Her killer pout has been acknowledged as her signature and has been seen in both Alexander McQueen and Asos advertisements.

 Romee Strijd

The beautiful Dutch model has worked for a number of huge designer names and featured in issues of Elle and Vogue UK magazines. She enjoys interior design and has a lengthy workout routine of ballet, pilates and boxing. No wonder the 19-year-old is in such good shape.

Martha Hunt

American model Martha Hunt was discovered in her North Carolina home town and taken to New York to be signed. She began doing runways in 2007 and is at ease in her wings. She is also likely to be seen surfing some waves or dancing and cooking when she isn’t hard at work.

Lais Ribeiro

Brazilian babe Lais has been modelling since 2009. She was the most booked model for shows at Brazilian fashion week in 2011 and has continued to catch designers’ eyes since. She has modelled for the likes of Versace and Gucci and, of course, Victoria’s Secret. We just love the outfit she is wearing here, that skirt is to die for.

Kate Grigorieva

Before she got into the modelling world, Kate was actually an established ballroom dancer. Her perfect poise and stunning Russian features are what’s really making her fly these days. We know she is likely to be a new favourite.

Monika Jagaciak

Last, but certainly not least, is Polish model Monika Jagaciak. Nicknamed “Jac” by her agency IMG Models, the new angel seems to be everywhere at the moment. From Michael Kors and Calvin Klein shows, she has been on the radar since the age of 15. Monika comes from a very sporty, athletic background and used to be a track runner as a child.

Bethan Williams