Romee Strijd Reflects on Her Journey and Victoria’s Secret Exit
As the fashion world prepares for the highly anticipated Victoria’s Secret show in Los Angeles, the absence of one of its most iconic figures has sparked a candid conversation about the industry. Romee Strijd, the Dutch model who served as a prominent angel for the brand, recently shared her emotional experience regarding the casting process for the upcoming event. Through a vulnerable update on social media, Strijd revealed that she will not be returning to the runway, citing a difficult and confusing selection process that ultimately led her to prioritize her well-being over further attempts to participate.
Strijd’s journey in the fashion industry has been one of remarkable resilience and evolution. Discovered at just 13 years old in Amsterdam, she quickly ascended to the top of the modeling world, working with prestigious houses such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. However, the pressures of the industry—including intense travel and the isolation of a global career—led her to take a necessary hiatus to focus on her personal growth and education before her triumphant return in 2014.
A Career Defined by Resilience
The year 2014 marked a pivotal turning point for Strijd. After dedicating months to preparation, she successfully joined the ranks of Victoria’s Secret, a dream she had nurtured for years. By 2015, she had officially earned her wings as an angel, cementing her status as a global fashion icon. Her tenure with the brand was highlighted by significant milestones, including the honor of wearing the coveted Swarovski look in 2018, a distinction that required hundreds of hours of artisanal craftsmanship.
Beyond the runway, Strijd has been equally open about her personal life. Her long-term relationship with Laurens van Leeuwen has been a cornerstone of her stability, with the couple navigating the challenges of a long-distance relationship before eventually building a life together in New York. Her path to motherhood, which she has documented with honesty, serves as a testament to her strength, particularly after being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (SOP). Despite medical predictions, she has embraced the joys of motherhood, welcoming two children and shifting her focus toward family life and a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Looking Toward the Future
While her time with Victoria’s Secret has come to a close, Strijd’s influence in the fashion world remains undeniable. She continues to selectively choose projects that align with her values, such as her appearance in the Fovari Haute Couture show in 2023. As she moves forward, her focus remains on her family and maintaining the positive memories she cultivated throughout her career. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of international modeling, personal integrity and mental health must always take precedence.
