Roy and Gaye Raymond's Shared Vision: How Victoria's Secret Was Born

The story of Victoria’s Secret begins with a personal frustration turned into a business opportunity. Roy Raymond experienced embarrassment when buying lingerie for his wife in a department store, discovering that there was no space specifically designed for men looking to buy this type of garment. This discomfort prompted him to imagine a completely different concept: a lingerie boutique that combined elegance, sophistication and a cozy atmosphere. Together with Gaye Raymond, his wife, he decided to transform this vision into reality.

The Road to Inauguration: Investment and Determination

To make their project a reality, Roy and Gaye Raymond obtained strategic financing that included $40,000 in bank capital and another $40,000 contributed by their family. These resources allowed them not only to build the infrastructure of their first establishment, but also to ensure that every detail reflected the sophistication they envisioned. The pair worked closely together during this critical phase, laying the foundation for what would become a global intimate fashion empire.

The Victorian Badge and Gaye Raymond’s Identity

The first Victoria’s Secret store was carefully designed by Roy and Gaye Raymond with a Victorian-inspired aesthetic, reflecting luxury, mystery and femininity. This design choice was no coincidence: Gaye Raymond contributed significantly to the conceptualization of the brand’s visual identity and vibe, elements that became Victoria’s Secret’s signature signature. The elegance of the Victorian period was manifested in every aspect, from the interior décor to the packaging of the products, creating a unique shopping experience that would resonate for decades.

From local success to global valuation

Fast forward to 2025, Victoria’s Secret & Co has achieved a position of prominence in the global financial markets. With a market capitalization of $2.32 billion, the company ranks as the 4,347th most valuable company in the world. This milestone represents not only commercial success, but also the durability of the original concept that Roy and Gaye Raymond envisioned: that there is a significant market for high-quality lingerie presented in a sophisticated and accessible environment. Victoria’s Secret’s journey demonstrates how an idea born from personal experience can evolve into a brand with global reach, with the joint vision of its founders as the cornerstone of its identity.