Heidi Klum has addressed the criticism she faced for being topless around her children, highlighting the positive influence it had on them.
The renowned fashion figure shared images on Instagram featuring herself and her daughter, Leni Klum. This sparked controversy after a video seemingly showed the 52-year-old engaging with her daughter’s underwear. Since Leni reached adulthood at 18, she has partnered with her mother, a former model and television personality, on various campaigns including lingerie and sleepwear.
In 2023, this collaboration drew significant criticism, which Klum addressed directly.
In an interview with People, Klum discussed the public reaction: “A lot of people are like, ‘Oh, I don’t know about mom and daughter doing this together’.”
“But for us? I’m proud of my daughter. She’s fine with me like that.”
“I’ve always been very open with my body,” she continued. “When I’m suntanning in the backyard, I might not have a top on. I’m European. My kids don’t know me any other way and are probably more easygoing with their bodies because of it.”
Despite her openness, Klum remains like any other parent in terms of her concerns for her children’s well-being. She shares Leni, 21, with former partner Flavio Briatore and has three other children, Henry, 19, Johan, 18, and Lou, 15, from her marriage to Seal.
Reflecting on her worries, she said, “When they’re young, you’re worried they’re going to jump in the pool or stick their finger in a socket. Then they’re driving. Then it’s sex, drugs and rock and roll. You hope the seed you planted in them grows. That they’re good people. That they’re healthy. But you always worry. And I know I’ll still be worrying when I’m 80.”
Klum also addressed the controversy in a conversation with Mail Online, referencing her decision two years prior to include her daughter in promotional work.
She shared with the outlet: “It’s been fun to shoot together. To do photoshoots together with her and just to see how she’s just very comfortable and also comfortable around me even when we’re doing underwear shoots or something like that.”
“It makes me proud that my daughter is super comfortable in her skin also in front of me and around me because not every kid is in the world,” she added. “So, I love that we have this beautiful relationship.”