Ever since the autobiographical documentary Beckham premiered on Netflix in early October, the frenzy surrounding the Beckhams hasn’t subsided. This couple, emblematic of pop culture, has undeniably ignited a wave of discussions on social media. The gossip within the celebrity circle never ceases to entertain, with the public always seeking to unravel the traces of their glamorous lives under the spotlight. Consequently, a plethora of online articles have focused on Beckham’s football career, the couple’s acquaintance, and Beckham’s past affairs. While Beckham is undeniably a masterpiece, the accomplishments of VB (Victoria Beckham) are seldom mentioned. Nowadays, VB has emerged as a renowned fashion designer and a trendsetter. It’s unfair to merely associate her name with a successful marriage or WAGs (Wives And Girlfriends of high-profile footballers).
Her efforts and achievements span far beyond just being the woman behind a football star.
Before VB became a fashion icon, a mother, or David Beckham’s spouse, she was a member of the British pop girl group, Spice Girls. Comprising five members known as Posh, Sporty, Baby, Scary, and Ginger Spice, they became the biggest girl group ever towards the late 90s, gaining fame with hit songs like “Wannabe”, “Say You’ll Be There”, and “Spice Up Your Life”. Victoria was the posh one, known as Posh Spice.
However, reflecting on this phase, she was somewhat the odd one out in Spice Girls.
Being in the Spice Girls was so much fun, but I was never the best singer or dancer.
Victoria Beckham
In the 1995 hit single “Wannabe” by Spice Girls, Victoria was the only member without a solo part. Even after the group’s disbandment in 2000, she was the last to attempt a solo career. In the 2016 exhibition “Vogue 100: A Century of Style”, Beckham joked that her microphone was often turned off during performances, with Victoria humorously responding, “They used to turn it off and just let the others sing. I got the last laugh – and now my mic is well and truly on, finally.”
Victoria also mentioned in the documentary that she never felt as natural as the other Spice Girls, “Fortunately, since I often wore high heels, I just needed to shake a bit, and I was always more conservative than the other members.” During another interview on BBC Radio 2 in 2016, Victoria joked again that no one wanted her to sing. “You should know there are post-its up all over the walls. Do not sing, Posh don’t sing, VB don’t sing.”
It’s clear that becoming a performer was not Victoria’s primary intent (nor was it the most suitable path for her).
I was never the six-foot-tall pinup, I’ve always been the girl-next-door who got lucky.
That Extra Half-Inch (2006) by Victoria Beckham
Known as Posh Spice for always wearing the finest dresses and having a keen eye for fashion, her then-manager Simon Fuller sincerely advised Victoria in 2000, when Spice Girls disbanded, “You should be in fashion. You should be a designer.” Hence, Victoria ventured into modelling, solo music, and even collaborations with designers, eventually deciding to establish her brand in 2008.
The fashion realm is relatively exclusive, and as Posh Spice, she was often shut out from fashion shows. In September 2008, when Victoria showcased her first collection at the Waldorf Astoria New York, the gathering fashion editors were sceptical, ready to pen a series of mocking reviews. Senior fashion editor of Harper’s Bazaar, Miranda Almond, agreed, “After all, she was a pop star and I don’t think particularly revered for her style, so her own fashion line seemed a little out of character.” However, being underestimated sometimes makes success even sweeter. Chair of the British Fashion Council (BFC), Caroline Rush, mentioned, “As with every celebrity turned designer, there was some scepticism from the industry which was very quickly dispelled when she started presenting her collections. There was a lot of interest from press and buyers and definitely a lot of buzz around the brand. It very soon became one of the hottest tickets of New York Fashion Week.”
In the same year, Marc Jacobs launched a series of ad campaigns with VB herself as the creative concept, placing her in MJ’s shopping bags. This bold and innovative idea garnered extensive attention back then, marking Victoria’s foray into the fashion world.
A decade later, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her brand, VB decided to recreate those images, this time climbing out of a shopping bag branded with her own brand, paying homage to the original ad. Time has proven she too could do it.
With her diligence, passion, and unique vision, Victoria not only proved her worth as a designer but also successfully carved out her niche in this highly competitive industry. Her designs have been welcomed by many, transitioning from the stage costumes she wore as Posh Spice to the elegant businesswoman style. Her brand has gradually become a significant player in the international fashion scene. According to The Daily Telegraph, the valuation of the Victoria Beckham brand reached 100 million pounds last November.
A brand represents an attitude, and consumer choices are a statement. VB’s brand has developed a unique and modern fashion language: bold, intuitive, and exquisite designs, achieving success in over 50 countries and 400 stores worldwide. She incorporates personal style into each collection based on the needs and characteristics of women in that region. Through high-quality products and unique designs, as well as collaborations with other brands and designers, VB has successfully established an internationally recognized fashion empire, continually seeking new breakthroughs and business opportunities.
Should Netflix consider launching Season 2 of Beckham?
Photo source: Porto Montenegro，Dazed Digital，This Day in Music，the music