Barbara Palvin has addressed criticism regarding her participation in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which took place just six weeks after she gave birth to her daughter, Sylvie.
Palvin, who welcomed her child with husband Dylan Sprouse in September, stated that "everyone's postpartum journey is different and this is just mine." She defended her decision to walk the runway while attending the Sprouse House Halloween Party, telling E! News that reactions to her return were "50-50." She added, "Some people loved that I was back, and some people were like, maybe I should be resting at home."
Palvin expressed gratitude for the support she received from her husband and family, acknowledging that she felt "overwhelmed" by the varied responses to her runway comeback. She advised other new mothers, "Don't be scared to ask for help."
She also noted that her body "bounced back really quickly," crediting a strict organic diet during pregnancy and light exercise and breastfeeding postpartum for her recovery. Palvin mentioned, "Maternity leave is six to eight weeks; I’m six weeks tomorrow, so I’m just doing what everyone [else] is doing. And I only need to walk down a runway!"
Palvin explained her postpartum preparation involved letting her body heal naturally and engaging in light exercise. She also shared that she prioritized healthy eating while breastfeeding. Her appearance on the runway featured a sheer pale pink mini dress, matching lingerie, and a white embellished corset with a train and snowflake wings.
Her husband, Dylan Sprouse, was present in the front row, and Palvin confirmed he was looking after their daughter during the show. Palvin, who debuted on the runway in 2012, became a Victoria's Secret Angel in 2019, making her the first Hungarian model to achieve this title. She returned for the revived 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show after a six-year hiatus for the brand.
Previously, Palvin has discussed her diet and fitness routines, including adhering to a keto diet before her wedding in July 2023 and intense gym schedules, such as training 10 times a week in preparation for the 2018 Victoria's Secret show. She worked with a personal trainer for these demanding routines, which included exercises like donkey kicks, lunges, and rope work.