From publishing to styling and creative direction, Courtney Joe has carved out a career built on thoughtful storytelling and a refined eye. We caught up with her to discuss her journey into fashion, what inspires her work today, and the everyday rituals she returns to.

1. To start, can you tell us how you first found your way into styling, and what initially drew you to fashion as a form of storytelling?

I have always loved getting dressed. And for much of the start of my career, my early roles incorporated some sort of styling — whether that was being on set for campaign shoots, managing a showroom of samples, or curating considered clothing edits. It never really occurred to me to turn it [styling] into a full-time job until I entered (and left) the publishing world. Working at a fashion magazine, you do have to have all hands on deck, and be able to create, direct, write, edit, and style content in all its forms. And that’s really where I got to refine my eye for styling.  I am a big believer in fate, and while it was absolutely my intention to turn storytelling into a career, all paths led to clothing as my strongest medium — with words coming in at a close second.

2. Your career has moved fluidly across creative direction, publishing, consultancy and styling. How have those different experiences informed the way you approach image-making today?

One of the most important skills one can have in image-making is taking a creative vision and translating it in a way that relates to an intended audience. There’s a fine line between the two, and combining and adapting multiple visions in a way that makes sense can often be challenging. Image-making is a collaborative process, and one of the most important steps for me is building a solid foundation with a team that shares an understanding of the direction, but can use their individual strengths and tastes to shape the outcome. 

3. There’s an ease and practicality to your styling that still feels incredibly considered and directional. How do you ensure that balance?

I dislike fuss. I never want anything to feel “too much”. I think about purpose, and why myself, or anyone else, is wearing what they’re wearing. What does a garment do, represent, create, and most importantly, make you feel? 

4. You’ve styled musicians, actors, athletes and personalities across very different worlds. What do you enjoy most about collaborating with people and bringing their individuality into a visual story?

I love seeing the small (or large) shifts in energy that a great outfit can create — that’s when you know you’ve nailed the job.

5. As both a stylist and writer, do words and imagery influence each other in your creative process?

They really do — and I lean on both equally to be able to conceptualise and communicate my ideas. 

6. What currently feels inspiring to you creatively - whether that’s fashion, film, art, people, music or something more unexpected?

Surprisingly, it’s never fashion that inspires my ideas, however I’m currently looking ahead to New Zealand Fashion Week, and turning my hat to runway styling. I’ve been finding myself more influenced than ever by menswear, and the men’s Spring Summer showings in Paris have provided much inspiration of late. 

7. With such a fast-moving industry and workload, are there rituals, routines or moments of pause that help you recalibrate?

Skincare, always. Both face and body gua sha. And daily movement is a non-negotiable for me. 

8. You’ve just returned from Europe, what were you most looking forward to taking away from this trip?

After a month spent between London, Stockholm, Paris and Milan, I was very much looking forward to coming back with a head full of inspiration and ideas — which I did, but more importantly I came back with a greater appreciation for how incredible our country is, and how we really are world-class in so many disciplines — fashion, food, design and more!

9. Which Tronque product has become part of your routine, and what makes it a standout for you?

The Firming Butter. It’s my favourite product to breathe life into my skin, both in the morning and at night. The scent is so fresh yet woody — I adore it.

Quickfire questions: 

Favourite self-care indulgence when you need a reset?
A sauna and cold plunge combo
Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff, but know that God is in the details”
One podcast you’re loving right now?
This is a fashion show — a collaboration between Viva and NZ Fashion Week, and hosted by icon Sammy Salsa.
If you could teleport anywhere for a weekend, where would you go?
Fiji. Sun and sea.
Last song you had on repeat?
I Love You Always Forever by Donna Lewis. An old favourite I rediscovered on The Drama soundtrack.