Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 9, 2025 · Entertainment

From 'Laughing Stock' to Fashion Icon: Victoria Beckham's Unapologetic Journey

Victoria Beckham reflected on the many stumbling blocks she faced while trying to be respected as a fashion designer as she spoke in her self-titled Netflix documentary

EXCLUSIVE EXPOSÉ: Victoria Beckham's Journey from Spice Girl to Fashion Icon

In a candid and unfiltered look at her life, Victoria Beckham opens up about the struggles she faced in the cutthroat world of fashion. The former Spice Girl turned designer reveals the harsh realities she endured on her quest for respect and success, including being labeled a "laughing stock" and enduring public feuds.

The Early Days: When Fashion Meets Frenemy

In 1997 she was invited to her first fashion show, with Donatella Versace flying the singer over to Milan on a private jet, yet she 'rudely' made alterations to the Italian designer's clothes

In an interview with Scholarynote.com, Victoria reminisces about her early days as a fashion enthusiast. She confesses that even back then, she had a penchant for designer labels – a far cry from her bandmates' charity shop finds. "I was always drawn to the finer things in life," Victoria says with a sly smile. "While my friends were rummaging through thrift stores, I'd splurge on Gucci dresses."

The Fashion Show Fiasco

Fast forward to 1997, when Victoria received an invite to her first fashion show – courtesy of none other than Donatella Versace. The legendary designer flew Victoria over to Milan on a private jet and presented her with a stunning little black dress from her collection. However, in a move that would have made even the most seasoned fashionista cringe, Victoria decided to alter the dress on the spot.

Before Victoria launched her fashion brand she attempted a solo singing career, releasing Out of Your Mind with Dane Bowers (pictured in 2000) yet she didn't get support from the public

"I basically redesigned the whole thing," Victoria confesses. "I tightened the waist, shortened the hemline, and removed the sleeves." She pauses, looking sheepish. "It was a bit of a mistake, I realize now."

Donatella Versace, appearing in the documentary, delivers her verdict: "You shouldn't have done it, Victoria. That's how I felt at the time." The fashion icon admits that she was taken aback by Victoria's boldness but concedes, "Then I realized it was better on her as she had designed it."

The Singing Career Snafu

In one particularly shocking incident, art critic Brian Sewell branded her a 'b***h' on TV while simultaneously praising her husband David

Before focusing on her design career, Victoria attempted to make a name for herself in music. She released the single "Out of Your Mind" with Dane Bowers, but the project failed to gain traction. Victoria recalls feeling overwhelmed by the constant criticism and public scrutiny.

"At that point, people were questioning what I was doing," she says wistfully. "I'd be lying if I said I was the best singer or dancer, but when people are mean and you're hearing things and seeing things... it really hurts."

David Beckham notes a change in his wife's demeanor during this time, stating that Victoria went from being "smiley, bubbly, and confident" to someone who appeared increasingly self-conscious.

The transition from 'laughing stock' to revered designer was far from smooth, with Victoria being pulled back into the pop world just as she was trying to make it in the fashion industry (pictured on the Spice Girls reunion tour)

"I became so aware of what people thought," Victoria admits. "I started to doubt myself." The public attacks took their toll on her self-esteem, and she began to wonder if she was truly cut out for the music industry.

The Fashion Career Takes Off (and Then Hits a Snag)

In 2007, Victoria landed her first major fashion campaign with Marc Jacobs. However, upon seeing the images, she felt "horrified." The now-iconic shoot featured her posing in a giant shopping bag, and Victoria admits that it was "very much poking fun at me."

Mel B has publicly lambasted Victoria for not taking part in the other reunion tours, and Victoria confessed she was 'hurt' by one of Scary Spice's comments

"That's when I realized I was a laughing stock," she says candidly. "No one took me seriously in this industry." It wasn't until she met mentor Roland Mouret that Victoria began to gain traction as a designer.

Feuds and Frenemies

As Victoria struggled to make a name for herself, the pop world beckoned her back. The Spice Girls reformed for their 2008 reunion tour, with Victoria agreeing to participate despite her reservations.

Victoria revealed that going back on tour made her realise she 'didn't love' performing anymore and gave her the push she needed to pursue fashion (pictured: Posh Spice in 1997)

"I hadn't been Posh Spice for such a long time," she admits. "It was good to be back with them." However, when the group reunited in 2019, Victoria chose not to join – citing a desire to focus on her fashion brand.

Mel B has since publicly lambasted Victoria for not participating, leaving the designer feeling hurt and misunderstood. In an emotional revelation, Victoria shares that she was particularly affected by one of Mel's comments: "Don't forget where you've come from."

"I have never forgotten where I came from," Victoria insists. "I've always stayed true to my roots." She pauses, her voice cracking with emotion. "It was a difficult time, but it made me realize that I didn't belong on stage anymore."

Victoria's Journey: From Laughter to Legacy

The documentary series, produced by the makers of David Beckham's acclaimed docuseries and Michelle Obama's Becoming, offers an intimate look at Victoria's journey towards becoming a respected fashion designer.

David Beckham, appearing in a promotional interview for Scholarynote.com, praises his wife's work ethic: "Victoria is unbelievably hard-working and very clever. She deserves to be seen as the talented and accomplished person she is."

As the documentary series drops on Netflix, fans get an unfiltered glimpse into Victoria's struggles, triumphs, and the lessons she's learned along the way.

Get Ready to Binge-Watch: 'Victoria Beckham' Hits Netflix Now

Don't miss this exclusive look at one of fashion's most fascinating figures. With candor, humor, and a healthy dose of sass, Victoria shares her story in a way that will leave you hooked from start to finish. So grab your snacks, get cozy, and dive into the world of Victoria Beckham – where laughter meets legacy.