Q&A with curvy style powerhouse iCurvy
Jo Bartley is a fashion influencer and heartful ambassador for size inclusivity. She lends an endearing dose of real life humility and a genuine passion for clothes to her Instagram offering. “I don’t have all the answers, I’m no expert stylist - I’m just a size 16 woman in my 30s juggling a kid and the corporate ladder.” She’s a great advocate for body positivity and diversity (in all of its forms), and has an especially excellent eye for colour and texture.
We caught up with Jo to discuss her take on curvy women in the media.
Tell us about yourself (who you are, what you do).
I’m Jo but most people know me by my Instagram handle @iCurvy. Each day, I share a snap of my outfit. It’s pretty simple just like me. I don’t have all the answers, I’m no expert stylist - I’m just a size 16 woman in my 30s juggling a kid and the corporate ladder.
What made you decide to become a role figure for the curvy community?
I don’t think I ever really aimed at being a role model or influencer - I started so I could participate in curvy fashion challenges, it all just kinda of snowballed from there. I’m now quite a few years down the track, but I still love engaging with communities of women building each other up.
You’ve been an incredible voice in this space. What do you think the media could do more of to portray strong, fabulous women like you?
I’d love to see more female characters in mainstream media who are happy with their bodies, regardless of size.
What are some of the misconceptions you have encountered as a curvy lady?
That I was unhappier and unhealthier when I weighed more and happier/healthier when I was skinnier; when probably the opposite was true. I’m genuinely happy in my skin now.
What message do you have for other curvy girls out there trying to find themselves?
Be kind to yourself. It’s a journey, it takes effort, but it’s worth it.
What keeps you inspired?
Meeting new people and seeing women grow in confidence. Oh and the fashion. I genuinely love fashion and clothes.
We have to ask, what is your favourite Sonsee product?
Opaque tights are my must-haves, I’ve got all the colours. But my favourite is actually the Slip. I wear my Singlet Slip year-round and the long sleeve version is on the wishlist. And I’m keen to try a bodysuit too.
And finally, what is your favourite curvy girl quote?
“and I said to my body. softly. ‘I want to be your friend.’ it took a long breath. and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.’” (@nayyirah.waheed)
You can follow Jo and her fashion journey on Instagram under the handle @iCurvy.
We caught up with Jo to discuss her take on curvy women in the media.
Tell us about yourself (who you are, what you do).
I’m Jo but most people know me by my Instagram handle @iCurvy. Each day, I share a snap of my outfit. It’s pretty simple just like me. I don’t have all the answers, I’m no expert stylist - I’m just a size 16 woman in my 30s juggling a kid and the corporate ladder.
What made you decide to become a role figure for the curvy community?
I don’t think I ever really aimed at being a role model or influencer - I started so I could participate in curvy fashion challenges, it all just kinda of snowballed from there. I’m now quite a few years down the track, but I still love engaging with communities of women building each other up.
You’ve been an incredible voice in this space. What do you think the media could do more of to portray strong, fabulous women like you?
I’d love to see more female characters in mainstream media who are happy with their bodies, regardless of size.
What are some of the misconceptions you have encountered as a curvy lady?
That I was unhappier and unhealthier when I weighed more and happier/healthier when I was skinnier; when probably the opposite was true. I’m genuinely happy in my skin now.
What message do you have for other curvy girls out there trying to find themselves?
Be kind to yourself. It’s a journey, it takes effort, but it’s worth it.
What keeps you inspired?
Meeting new people and seeing women grow in confidence. Oh and the fashion. I genuinely love fashion and clothes.
We have to ask, what is your favourite Sonsee product?
Opaque tights are my must-haves, I’ve got all the colours. But my favourite is actually the Slip. I wear my Singlet Slip year-round and the long sleeve version is on the wishlist. And I’m keen to try a bodysuit too.
And finally, what is your favourite curvy girl quote?
“and I said to my body. softly. ‘I want to be your friend.’ it took a long breath. and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.’” (@nayyirah.waheed)
You can follow Jo and her fashion journey on Instagram under the handle @iCurvy.