The Muse Journal: 02 - Courtney Stodden

For our second instalment we meet Courtney Stodden, known for her work as an actress, producer, singer + advocate. Courtney’s journey has been one of reclaiming her story, embracing her identity + encouraging others to do the same.

We spoke to Courtney about confidence, empowerment + her experience wearing Thea...

The Thea collection balances delicate butterfly adorned embroidery with bold noir strapping. What drew you to the collection, and how did it feel to wear it?

What drew me to it was the balance. The softness of the florals alongside the strength of the structure felt very symbolic of womanhood to me. Women are constantly told we have to choose between being soft or powerful, delicate or resilient, feminine or strong.

Wearing it felt less like putting on lingerie and more like putting on a reminder that we can be all of those things at once.

The Muse Journal: 02 - Courtney Stodden—Edge o' Beyond Luxury Lingerie

You've chosen to share parts of your story publicly. What has that journey taught you?

It’s taught me that shame survives in silence. The more honestly I speak about my experiences, the more women quietly reach out and say, “me too.” There is incredible power in telling the truth about your life, even when your voice shakes.

What piece of advice would you give your 16 year old self?

You do not owe anyone your silence, your body, your comfort or your dreams. The people who truly love you will never ask you to disappear in order to make themselves comfortable.

Do you have a daily ritual that helps you feel grounded?

Meditation, spending time with my animals and reminding myself that healing isn’t linear. Some days grounding looks like a sound bath and journaling. Other days it looks like making coffee and sitting quietly with my dogs. Both count.

Where are your favourite places to eat or your favourite recipes?

I’m vegan, so I love finding beautiful plant based meals that feel nourishing and comforting. Honestly though, my favorite meals are usually the simple ones shared with people I love.

What one thing are you currently obsessed with?

Women’s stories. There is something incredibly powerful happening right now as women become more honest with one another about trauma, healing, boundaries, aging, ambition and joy.

What's one piece of advice you hope every young woman hears?

Your intuition is not something to overcome. If something feels wrong, too fast, unsafe or confusing, your feelings deserve to be listened to.

What is your favourite book, movie or tv series?

I’m drawn to stories about women who survive, transform and reclaim themselves. Those stories tend to stay with me long after the credits roll.

What is your favourite lingerie tip or styling secret?

Wear lingerie for the woman who sees you in the mirror before anyone else sees you at all. The right piece doesn’t change your worth. It simply reminds you of it.

What song are you playing on repeat at the moment?

Lately I’ve been gravitating toward music that feels cinematic, nostalgic and feminine. The kind of songs that make you want to roll the windows down and remember who you are.

One woman who inspires you?

The women who keep going. The women rebuilding their lives quietly. The women starting over. The women learning to trust themselves again. They inspire me more than anyone.

What does empowerment mean to you today?

Empowerment used to mean becoming who everyone expected me to be. Today it means becoming who I actually am. It means understanding that my body is not a public debate, my femininity is not a weakness and my voice belongs to me. I think that’s what empowerment is for many women: coming home to yourself.