47-year-old Victoria’s Secret model says it’s liberating to show off gray hairs

Known and criticized for having tall and thin supermodels in their shows and advertisements, far removed from the physical type of most women, Victoria’s Secret decided to change the way it chooses the people who represent the brand.

In its latest campaign, “Love Cloud Collection”, the lingerie brand counts for the first time with a model with Down syndrome, the Puerto Rican Sofía Jirau, 24. Other real women of different ages, bodies and aesthetics are also in the casting. diverse as former athlete, emergency doctor and pilates instructor Jailyn Matthews, 47.

“Representing women like me for an iconic brand is amazing,” she said. On Instagram, Jailyn spoke about her journey of acceptance that began in 2017 when she decided to have the breast implants she had had in her early 20s removed.

In the lengthy account, she states that she believed the silicone would help her work towards her two big goals from when she was younger: Victoria’s Secret and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit magazine. “The fact that I’m a part of the Love Cloud campaign now, naturally, means a lot,” she wrote.

She also advised other women to accept themselves as they are. “Be you. Now, more than ever, outside influences tease and try to tell us that we are somehow not enough… but don’t believe it! If you want the surgery, your choice is ok. My suggestion is that you be clear about why you are making this choice and honor yourself,” he said.

In another Instagram post, she pointed out that the most liberating thing she’s ever done is shave her hair and let her hair grow naturally. “Because my grays shine,” she said. “Nothing beats living authentically and being who I am. A toast to freedom,” she added.

Raúl Martinez, new creative director at Victoria’s Secret, said the Love Cloud Collection campaign is an important moment in the “evolution of the brand”. “From the cast of incredible women who bring the collection to life, to the incredible inclusive spirit on set, this campaign is an important part of the new Victoria’s Secret standard we are creating.”