Barbara Palvin has no regrets about returning to the runway just six weeks after giving birth. The 33-year-old model walked in the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show following the arrival of her daughter, Sylvie, on September 7. Barbara, who shares her first child with husband Dylan Sprouse, said, “Everyone’s postpartum journey is different, and this is just mine.”
Barbara Palvin addresses criticism of her return six weeks after giving birth
Speaking to E! News at the Sprouse House Halloween party, hosted by her and her husband, Barbara responded to the attention her postpartum journey has received after the Los Angeles Show on October 18. She said, “Honestly, there were 50-50 with the reactions.” Adding, “Some people loved that I was back, and some people were like, maybe I should be resting at home.”
“Everyone’s postpartum journey is different,” she said. “And this is just mine.” Barbara also showed appreciation for her loved ones, who supported her throughout the journey. She said, “I’m lucky that I have the support from my husband and my family, and they were able to get me there.”
Addressing other new mothers, Barbara stressed the importance of accepting support during the postpartum journey. “Don’t be scared to ask for help,” she advised. When Barbara shared news that she’d be joining the show in a joint post with Victoria’s Secret, several fans praised her runway appearance and quick recovery. However, there were some who felt her early return could put unnecessary pressure on everyday mothers.
One of them wrote, “Not a realistic standard for most postpartum moms, but I hope she gets all the rest her body deserves to fully recover.” Another stated, “Not saying there’s anything wrong with that but it is A LOT of privilege that people don’t have. Good for her though! I hope she recovers and is happy and healthy!”
Barbara made her Victoria’s Secret runway debut in 2012 when she was just 19 years old. Following a six-year hiatus, she returned to the fashion show in 2018 when it was held in New York. Her career reached another milestone a year later, when she became the first Hungarian model to join the brand’s Angels.
