Fashion designer Pip Edwards has found herself at the centre of a social media storm after being photographed enjoying a beach day in Sydney just hours after being discharged from hospital, still wearing her patient identification wristband.
A Swift Return to the Sun
The 45-year-old founder of activewear label P.E Nation caused concern among followers on Monday when she posted a cryptic image from an emergency department bed to her Instagram Story. Less than twenty-four hours later, however, she was seen taking a dip with friends at Nielsen Park in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
Images showed Edwards looking relaxed in a black bikini, but with a clear bandage on her forearm and the tell-tale hospital tag still secured around her wrist. This detail quickly became the focal point for a wave of criticism from readers of the Daily Mail.
Public Accusations of Attention-Seeking
The online reaction was swift and largely unsympathetic, with many commenters suggesting the designer was using her hospital visit for publicity. One reader remarked, "I seriously can't believe she did this, hospital wrist band and all," while another sarcastically commented, "Hey paps. I'm going to the beach, make sure you get my hospital band."
The sentiment was echoed by others who viewed the wristband as a prop. "Leaving the hospital wrist band on... nice touch there, Pip for that bit of added drama," wrote one. Another added pointedly, "When did a hospital tag become a fashion accessory?"
Context of a Traumatic Start to 2026
This incident follows a profoundly difficult period for the mother-of-one. Edwards recently announced she was stepping back from her role as creative director at the label Ksubi to focus on her wellbeing. This decision came in the wake of the traumatic Bondi Beach terror attack last month, during which she was forced to hide under a van.
Sources close to the designer cited 'extreme exhaustion and stress' as the reason for her recent hospital admission, a condition likely exacerbated by the recent trauma. Prior to her hospital visit, she had been celebrating the New Year with friend Jackie 'O' Henderson, appearing in good spirits.
Despite the backlash over her beach appearance, the sequence of events paints a picture of a individual navigating recovery from a severe shock, albeit in a manner that has divided public opinion.
