In 1997, Gerri Halliwell's DIY Union Jack minidress became an emblem of Cool Britannia, but another iconic look emerged that night. Victoria Beckham, then known as Posh Spice, accepted awards for the Spice Girls in a custom-made grey chiffon dress by Maria Grachvogel. This sultry ensemble epitomized the "Posh" aesthetic and marked a significant moment in British pop culture. By 2000, Victoria had transformed into Mrs. Beckham, making her modeling debut on Grachvogel’s runway during London Fashion Week. This event was not only groundbreaking for its celebrity involvement but also highlighted the innovative spirit of early 21st-century fashion. The collection showcased at the Natural History Museum featured 46 looks inspired by "free spirits," with Victoria stealing the show in a peridot cashmere outfit. Despite her nerves, this appearance solidified her status as a fashion icon.

Three years after the Spice Girls’ triumphant moment at the Brit Awards, the newly minted Mrs. Beckham stepped onto the runway for Maria Grachvogel’s autumn/winter 2000 collection. This season was particularly memorable for London Fashion Week, marking the dawn of a new era. Notable events included Julien Macdonald’s extravagant presentation at the Millennium Dome, Alexander McQueen’s mystical tribute to Yoruba spirituality, and Hussein Chalayan’s avant-garde show where clothing and furniture blurred boundaries. Yet, it was Victoria Beckham who generated unparalleled media frenzy. The concept of celebrities walking the runway was still relatively novel, and her presence ignited intense public interest.

Maria Grachvogel chose the British Fashion Council tent at the Natural History Museum for her AW00 presentation. The venue, which served as the epicenter of London Fashion Week, set the stage for an unforgettable collection. Inspired by “free spirits,” the 46 looks were characterized by beaded maxi skirts and dresses in rich forest greens and deep maroons. Models strutted confidently toward photographers, their hair styled in delicate braids. However, it was Victoria Beckham who caused audible gasps when she appeared in a striking peridot cashmere polo neck and matching satin hotpants. Her cropped blonde hair, highlighted with spikes, added an edgy touch to the elegant setting. For the finale, she paraded in a ruffled flamenco dress, posing alongside Grachvogel with bouquets of lilies.

Victoria Beckham may have found the experience daunting, describing it as "absolutely petrifying." Nevertheless, the media embraced the spectacle wholeheartedly. Less than a year prior, Victoria and David Beckham had tied the knot at Luttrellstown Castle, with their infant son Brooklyn as a guest of honor. The couple’s every move was scrutinized by paparazzi, making them the ultimate fashion darlings. This runway debut further cemented Victoria’s status as a style icon, bridging the worlds of music and fashion in a way that captivated audiences worldwide.