Barbara Meier is a name synonymous with grace, perseverance, and versatility. Rising to international fame after winning Germany’s Next Top Model in 2007, she has since built a career that spans high fashion, film, and humanitarian work. A natural redhead with striking features, Barbara defied industry norms and became an advocate for diversity and self-acceptance in the modeling world.
After 15 years, she returned to Paris Fashion Week, marking a milestone in her journey—one that encapsulates growth, confidence, and a renewed appreciation for fashion. She now embraces her body and career with newfound maturity, inspiring women worldwide to own their narratives, regardless of age or societal expectations.
In this exclusive interview, Barbara shares her thoughts on her comeback, her evolving role in the industry, her work as a UNICEF ambassador, and how she balances a flourishing career with motherhood.
“I Now Walk with Confidence” – Barbara on Returning to Paris Fashion Week
After 15 years, you returned to Paris Fashion Week. How was that beautiful moment for you?
It was amazing. The last time I participated in Paris Fashion Week, I was very young and, honestly, quite insecure. While I always gave my best, I sometimes forgot to enjoy the moment. Now, after many years and having two children, I feel much more confident in my skin.
Pregnancy has taught me to appreciate my body as a miracle rather than something to critique for every wrinkle or change. I no longer fit the rigid standards of a size zero, but I have never felt more beautiful. Walking the runway again felt empowering—like reclaiming a part of myself that I once doubted.
The Inspiration Behind Her Comeback
How did you decide to return to the catwalk after such a long break?
I had been working with Lena Erziak and Inclover for the Cannes Film Festival and a few photoshoots, and I fell in love with their designs. Their artistry and their ethos really resonated with me—especially since they are women-led brands.
When Greg from Mephistopheles Productions asked if I would walk the runway for them, I immediately said yes. It felt symbolic to walk again at 38 years old, proving that fashion should embrace all ages, sizes, and experiences. A few years ago, the industry wouldn’t have welcomed models over 20 unless they were superstars. I wanted to be part of this change and show that confidence and elegance only deepen with time.
Reuniting with Heidi Klum—And Walking the Runway with Her Son, Henry Samuel
Eighteen years ago, you won Germany’s Next Top Model under Heidi Klum’s guidance. Now, you returned to Paris Fashion Week at the same time her son, Henry Samuel, made his runway debut. What was that like?
I will always be grateful to Heidi for believing in me back in 2007. At the time, red-haired, pale-skinned models were rarely seen on covers or catwalks. Heidi’s trust in me helped change the self-confidence of many young girls with red hair, and I soon realized that I had the power—and responsibility—to be a role model.
Meeting Henry was such a beautiful full-circle moment. When I won GNTM, he was not even two years old! Now, he’s 19, taller than me, and already so talented. Time flies, and it was surreal to share this experience with him.
Henry Samuel’s First Runway—From a Model’s Perspective
You got to know Henry backstage. What was he like?
He was incredibly professional, especially for his first show. He walked with confidence, as if he had been doing this for years!
But what stood out to me the most was his kindness. He was respectful to everyone, polite, and just a genuinely good person. That speaks volumes about Heidi as a mother. Watching him take his first steps into the fashion world made me so happy for her—she has raised amazing children.
Fashion With a Message: The Lena Erziak Freedom Dress
During the show, you wore a statement piece—a dress that symbolized freedom of the press, speech, and thought. How did it feel to wear something so meaningful?
I was incredibly proud to wear that dress. It carried powerful messages like “My body, my choice,” “LGBTQ+ rights,” and “Hope.”
But the message that resonated with me the most was “Education.” As a UNICEF ambassador, I have seen firsthand how education changes lives—especially for girls. It is the most powerful tool to break cycles of poverty and oppression.
We must never take our rights for granted. Fashion isn’t just about beauty; it can be a platform to champion causes that truly matter.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Women
You are a role model to many women. What advice would you give them?
I don’t want anyone to be like me—I want them to be themselves. The secret to success, especially in industries like fashion and film, is authenticity.
Early in my career, I listened to too many people telling me who I should be. But I realized that true happiness comes from embracing who you are. If you stay true to yourself, the right people will support you.
A Day of Fashion Magic: Inclover’s Show
On the same day, you walked for Inclover as well. How was that experience?
It was a long but magical day! Fashion has the power to transform how we feel—some outfits relax us, while others give us strength. Inclover understands the female body and knows how to craft garments that make women feel empowered.
I adored the gold dress I wore, and I also fell in love with the wedding gown. But unfortunately, I won’t get to wear it down the aisle—I’m already happily married!
I also loved working with Gaziza Shabdarbayeva. She brought such warmth and kindness to the backstage environment, making sure everyone felt comfortable. That kind of leadership is rare in fashion.
Balancing Acting and Modeling
You are also an actress. What’s next for you?
I worked on several film projects last year, and I can’t wait for them to be released.
Acting is so fulfilling because it allows me to explore new worlds and emotions. I especially love period pieces—the intricate costumes, historical settings, and stepping into another era’s reality. It’s more challenging, but it’s so rewarding.
I have some new scripts on my desk, and I’m currently deciding which ones to take on. The excitement of storytelling never fades.
Cannes Film Festival and Its Timeless Allure
You are always a favorite at Cannes. Will you be attending this year?
Absolutely! Cannes is where cinema and fashion come together in the most glamorous way. Even sitting at a café during the festival feels like watching a fashion show unfold. It’s a surreal and magical experience.
Motherhood and the Art of Balance
Aside from your career, you are also a mother. How do you manage everything?
Like every working mother, I juggle many roles. It requires careful planning, and I’ve reduced my workload since having children.
But I also think it’s important for my daughters to see that both their parents work. There are weeks when I’m just Mama, with no red carpets or glamorous outfits—and I cherish those moments the most.
At the end of the day, no job will ever be more fulfilling than coming home to my children’s hugs.
Unfinished Dreams and the Future
What’s one thing you haven’t done yet but would love to?
I would love to do a photoshoot under the Northern Lights. It’s such a breathtaking phenomenon, and combining it with fashion would be mesmerizing.
For acting, I’d love to play a scientist. Science is beautiful, and I’d love to show how fascinating it can be.
Barbara’s Life Philosophy
What’s a quote that describes you?
“Life isn’t about finding yourself; it’s about creating yourself.”
This quote reminds me that we have the power to shape our own destinies. Hard work, resilience, and belief in oneself can make anything possible.
Barbara Meier’s journey is proof that beauty, intelligence, and purpose can coexist. From Paris Fashion Week to motherhood, acting, and advocacy, she continues to redefine success on her own terms—an inspiration to women everywhere.
Credits:-
Starring Barbara Meier @barbarameier
Photography: Greg Alexander @gregalexanderofficial
Production: Mephistopheles Productions @mephistophelesproductions
Art director: Sébastien Vienne @sebastienvienne
Interview: Ada Iliopoulou @adalesoleil30
Makeup: Carine Larchet @carineparisparis
Hair: Alexander Von Trentini @alex.von.trentini
Wardrobe : Inclover Couture @inclover.brand
