Exclusive: we catch up with Irina Shayk, Alessandra Ambrosio and Stella Maxwell backstage at the Victoria's Secret fashion show in Paris

The show is taking place in Paris for the first time in its history
1/23
Charlie Teather1 December 2016

With the most highly-anticipated fashion show on the calendar kicking off in Paris in just a matter of hours, we went backstage with the Victoria's Secret models and Angels to find out how they were feeling about the big show.

Speaking to Irina Shayk, Alessandra Ambrosio and Stella Maxwell while they were primped and preened by endless make-up artists and hair stylists, we found out all about this year's show and where they might like to see future Victoria's Secret runways held.

This year marks your first time walking for Victoria's Secret, Irina, but what is it about Paris do you think that makes this year's showcase so particularly exciting?

Irina: Well because Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s very chic and it’s really cool to be here before Christmas, the city looks so beautiful. And let’s just talk about this place (the Grand Palais), the venue is amazing – really really great. For me it’s really a dream come true to be here in Paris for my first show.

What do you think gives the Victoria’s Secret show its reputation as the biggest and most exciting show in the world?

Irina: Well if you look at the models who have done the show over the years like Gisele, Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks – they’re the biggest names in the industry. It’s all about sexy bodies and there are a lot of beautiful girls this year. It’s just… a lot of sexiness in one room.

Victoria's Secret through the years

1/50

Alessandra: Victoria’s Secret is a brand that wants every woman to feel their best and that’s why we put on the show. It’s like let’s, as women, be the best we can be. Let’s be confident and let’s celebrate women.

Stella: I mean, it’s the sexiest show in the world. It’s the one that everyone wants to be in, it’s the one that everyone wants to watch. Out of all of the fashion shows, I can’t think of one that’s more anticipated. It’s more than a fashion show it’s more of an actual calendared event. I think everyone wants to sit down with their family and watch it, it’s a real tradition. I think we have amazing fans, all the girls love doing it, we all get so excited.

Alessandra, you’ve been an Angel for over 10 years. What makes this show in Paris so much bigger than any other do you think?

Alessandra: Well, I think just because it’s Paris and Paris is the most glamorous city in the world. This will definitely be the most glamorous show Victoria’s Secret has ever done.

So how do you prepare for a show like this, do you get nervous anymore?

Alessandra: Well today I’m a little bit nervous, because I have really high heels. Like, extra high. I’m not used to them, and they have really big platforms. But it’s super exciting to have them and do it.

Stella: I do get nervous, especially right before. You get a little knot in your stomach and you don’t have much control of your body any more. But I’m actually a lot less nervous this year and more excited. I’m starting to enjoy it so much more because I’ve done it and I know what to expect. I know what’s going on and I just love it.

Stella Maxwell prepares backstage ahead of the show
AFP/Getty Images

Stella, this is your third show, but what is it about Paris do you think that makes this year so special?

Stella: I mean, I used to live in Paris. I think Paris is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever seen in my life, and I’ve travelled a lot and seen a lot. I think every street, every road, has something to look at. I love the architecture. And right now, at Christmas, it’s amazing. All the lights are up, it’s glowing, it’s a city of lights

And if you could decide where the Victoria’s Secret show would be held next year, where would be your first choice?

Irina: Tokyo. I love Japan, it’s very special. I love the culture side as well, so Tokyo for sure.

Stella: I mean imagine in Sydney or something, it’s just so far. Or maybe in LA, I don’t know – any beautiful city. They always choose the most amazing cities so I’m always happy wherever they choose. It’s a good life.

Alessandra: Brazil, of course. Not even a doubt. Rio de Janeiro.

Keep an eye on standard/fashion this evening for more Victoria's Secret news and pictures straight from the runway

Victoria's Secret fashion show: 2016 models

1/53

Follow Charlie Teather on Twitter @charlieteather

Follow Lifestyle on Facebook and on Twitter @ESLifeandStyle

Create a FREE account to continue reading

eros

Registration is a free and easy way to support our journalism.

Join our community where you can: comment on stories; sign up to newsletters; enter competitions and access content on our app.

Your email address

Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number

You must be at least 18 years old to create an account

* Required fields

Already have an account? SIGN IN

By clicking Create Account you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use , Cookie policy and Privacy policy .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in