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Angolan model Maria Borges was nervous to sport her afro in the show

"If you say you're beautiful without hair and makeup, then they will believe you"

CNN  — 

For her third appearance in the Victoria’s Secret runway show, Angolan model Maria Borges wanted to do something a little different.

“I told my agent I wanted to walk in the Victoria’s Secret show with my natural hair,” Borges told Essence. “I was nervous, but I had to do it. When they said ‘yes,’ I didn’t expect it, but I was so happy!”

Model Maria Borges showed off a more natural look at the fashion show.
Model Maria Borges showed off a more natural look at the fashion show.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Victoria's Secret

The fashion show is usually known for willowy models with flowing locks who strut the catwalk in skimpy lingerie fashions. But Borges opted instead to sport her afro, to the delight of natural hair fans.

Borges had a message for fellow naturalistas.

“Be strong,” she said. “If you say you’re beautiful without hair and makeup, then they will believe you. It’s about being confident and always being yourself.”

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show will air on CBS on December 8.