Each week, The Curvy Fashionista highlights plus-size professionals who are redefining what leadership means. and I feel like that. This series isn’t about plus-size influencers or indie plus-size designers (although we love them too). Like Grace Barney, it’s a story about bold professionals, power brokers, and change-makers who build careers behind the scenes, break down barriers, and do it in style. Because you can’t be what you can’t see.
Last time, we featured the vibrant Tiffany Heard of Hughes, Africa, a traveling curator and author who champions Black culture and exploration around the world. This week, we meet some of the biggest names in the worlds of insurance technology and personal style, people who walk into any room and are unapologetically themselves. grace varney.
Grace Varney: Build your system by day, style with confidence by night
Grace Varney didn’t chart a straight path to success, and she was the first to say it. “My professional journey was unexpected,” she says. After graduating with a degree in English in 2007 (at the height of the recession), she reviewed unemployment claims before pivoting to the world of insurance technology. Thirteen years later, she manages a team at Optvise, making enterprise systems run smoother for the people who trust them most.
But that’s only part of Grace’s story.
On your side? She is a bold and fabulous plus-size personal stylist who recently completed Law Roach’s Image Architecture course, has styled NYFW attendees, and currently serves as a volunteer coordinator for Magic City Fashion Week. “I specialize in helping plus-size women find their style and confidence,” she says. “It brought me more joy than I could have imagined.”
How Grace Appears in Two Worlds
As a corporate leader who works remotely, Grace still values showing her authentic self. “I bring joy, compassion and support to the team,” she says. “My job is to fight with them, listen to them, and strategize with them. Without them, my job is meaningless.”
She changes the spotlight with her styling work. “My personal style is picky,” she admits with a smile. “But when I’m with clients, I tone it down. they are It can occupy all the space. I will be their cheerleader, counselor, and guide. ”
Confidence in technology and textiles
Being a fat queer woman in a male-dominated tech industry hasn’t been easy. Grace faces misogyny, fatphobia, and harassment, and after briefly quitting her job, she comes back stronger than ever. “Moving from Alabama to New York gave me permission to exist in my own skin,” she says. “Now I’m taking that energy back to the South and trying to give others the same permission.”
For her, confidence is “saying what you want to say, being present in your body without any fear, and doing what you want without apologies.”
How does she build it? “Limit social media, block out unsolicited opinions, surround yourself with loving people, and encourage others. A smile and a compliment costs nothing.”
Plus-size style wisdom from Grace Varney
Grace, what are your styling tips? Accessorize and tailor like a pro.
“We don’t have that many options, so accessories can be your superpower,” she says. “And you don’t have to wait until you lose weight to find your style. Start now. Wear what’s comfortable.”
She also advises stepping out of your comfort zone for each event. “If you’re feeling anxious about something, try it on just once. Have someone look at it. This will give you confidence.”
Her last jewel? “Hire a seamstress. It’s not as expensive as you think. They can transform your look from ordinary to sophisticated and professional.”
What’s next for Grace Varney?
Grace is clear about what happens next. “While I continue in my role with the company, all of my outside energy is focused on the styling business.”
She is learning to sew and aims to expand her skills to include tailoring, upcycling and garment making. She creates websites, creates presentations for local organizations, and aims for a spot at the next event. Eloquii NYFW Runway. and? She wants to add 15 new customers over the next 12 months.
Yes, she does all this while managing a full-time team. Elegance is the definition of a curvaceous boss.
This is what the celebration looks like…
Dinner and drinks with friends. When I returned home, I found a dog and three cats. Big bed and good books. Grace not only works hard, but also celebrates heartily.
And what if she could share that table with someone else?
- Law Roach
- lady gaga
- Beth ditto
We want to be flies on the wall.
Do you know a curvaceous boss like Grace Barney?
Here at The Curvy Fashionista, we feature plus-size professionals like Grace every week. If you know someone who is making a difference and leading with style, we want to hear about them.
Because bold, bold, and talented professionals deserve attention. Grace Varney is just one example of what brilliance looks like when we take up space.
Source: The Curvy Fashionista – thecurvyfashionista.com
