Ora

What did Victoria Secret originally sell?

Published in Retail History 2 mins read

Victoria's Secret primarily sold lingerie when it first opened its doors.

The Genesis of Victoria's Secret

Founded in 1977 by American businessman Roy Raymond, Victoria's Secret was conceived as a revolutionary concept in lingerie retail. Raymond's inspiration stemmed from a personal, uncomfortable experience attempting to purchase underwear for his wife in a traditional department store. He envisioned a shopping environment that would be inviting and comfortable, especially for men who were often intimidated by the typical lingerie sections of the era.

A New Shopping Experience

The original aim was to create a place where the act of buying intimate apparel felt less awkward and more accessible. This focus translated into stores designed to appeal to a broader customer base, moving away from the overtly feminine or intimidating atmosphere often found elsewhere. The initial product line reflected this mission, offering various styles of lingerie tailored to this evolving consumer need.

  • Initial Product Focus: Lingerie, including bras, panties, and other intimate apparel.
  • Target Audience: Initially aimed at making men comfortable shopping for women's lingerie.
  • Founding Principle: To provide an alternative to uncomfortable department store experiences.

For more details on the brand's evolution, you can explore its history on platforms like Wikipedia.