Courtney Lynn Stark isn’t just a former Love Island fan favorite, she’s a force reshaping what it means to be bold, beautiful, and unapologetically herself in the digital age. With a background in fashion and a refreshingly honest outlook on identity, self-worth, and transformation, the South Korean, German, and American multi-hyphenate has turned her reality TV spotlight into a platform for empowerment. As the first openly bisexual Islander in franchise history, Courtney broke barriers with her signature mix of heart, humor, and honesty. Today, she’s leveraging her growing audience to champion body positivity, mental health, and modern beauty, proving she’s more than a moment; she’s a movement. Vulkan caught up with the rising influencer and wellness voice to talk fashion obsessions, post-show healing, and what’s next in her fearless evolution.
Vulkan: You made a major impression on Love Island USA with your bold honesty and magnetic energy. Looking back, what do you think made your presence resonate so strongly with viewers?
CLS: I believe my presence deeply resonated with viewers because l made it a priority to be a ‘girl’s girl’. Supporting my friends in the villa was important to me, and I think that genuine loyalty was evident. I believe my positive energy was crucial at times, especially considering how challenging life in the villa can be at times. I made a conscious, natural effort to maintain an uplifting atmosphere. Regarding the love part of Love Island, I consistently maintained a playful spirit while simultaneously being confident in my own worth, so I feel like people connected with that as well.
Vulkan: You’ve become known for your fearless self-expression, how would you describe your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years?
CLS: I would describe my personal style as an eclectic blend of elevated boho, ethereal goddess, preppy chic and California fashion. This combination reflects my love for both effortless elegance and free-spirited expression, creating a look that is both sophisticated, edgy and uniquely myself.
Vulkan: As the first openly bisexual contestant on Love Island USA, you broke boundaries in mainstream media. What did that moment mean for you personally, and what kind of impact do you hope it had?
CLS: As the first openly bisexual contestant on Love Island USA, this moment held significant meaning for me, symbolizing greater representation for the LGBTQ+ community that I deeply cherish. I hope my participation has inspired others to embrace and be authentic about their sexuality on television, encouraging them not to hide their true selves. My sincere hope is that I have empowered individuals to express and celebrate their sexuality with confidence and pride.
Vulkan: After leaving the show, you’ve been open about navigating depression. What helped you get through that chapter, and how has it influenced your outlook today?
CLS: What helped me navigate my depression after the show was the support of my therapist and shaman. While I had already begun a significant amount of internal work prior to participating, I committed to deepening that process intensively once the show concluded. I was seeing my therapist weekly, and my shaman and I engaged in meditation and energy work to facilitate healing. Together, we focused on shifting my energy and mindset, which proved instrumental during such a dark and challenging period. I am incredibly grateful for their guidance and compassion throughout that journey.
Vulkan: Mental health and self-love are central themes in your work. What advice would you give to young women struggling with self-worth in today’s digital age?
CLS: The advice I would offer to young women struggling with self-worth in today’s digital age is to remember that not everything you see online reflects reality. You are only witnessing a curated glimpse of others’ lives. You are beautiful exactly as you are. If there’s something you wish to change and it genuinely bothers you, remember that this is your life, and you have the right to live it authentically. We live in a time where transformation is accessible, but it’s important to recognize that no one needs to change themselves to be worthy or complete.
I can’t speak from a place of strict judgment, as I have personally undergone cosmetic procedures, and I support personal choice. However, I firmly believe that such changes are entirely optional and not a necessity for self-love or validation. I also encourage young women to practice self-compassion, to love themselves wholeheartedly, and to occasionally give their inner child a hug, reminding themselves of their worth beyond external appearances.
Vulkan: You’ve hinted at exciting new ventures, are there any fashion collabs, brand campaigns, or style-focused projects on the horizon?
CLS: I am embarking on a new chapter in my online presence, shifting toward fashion influencing and fostering deeper connections with my audience through genuine, authentic conversations. Previously, I focused solely on travel influencing, but now I am expanding my horizons.
I am also thrilled to share that I have an upcoming jewelry campaign that I am incredibly excited about, alongside an emerging brand collaboration, one that you may or may not have seen featured in Vogue Magazine. This new direction feels both inspiring and empowering, and I look forward to sharing this journey with my community.
Vulkan: Can you share a few of your current beauty or fashion must-haves that you’re obsessed with right now?
CLS:My favorite fashion and beauty must haves right now are the Shark Cyro Mask, mouth tape, Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner in shade Mildew, Her Liaison eyelash serum, chain belts, mesh pump slingback heels, Josie Maran Topless Tangerine body lotion, hand chain jewelry, body chain jewelry, the Dior Glow Pallet in shade 01, the Nexxus Slick Stick, Kerastase Gloss Absolute Glaze hair oil, Isle of Paradise tanning drops, Tom Ford lip gloss in Sunrise Pink, Elf lip liner in Baddest Beige, ILIA Fullest Volumizing Mascara and Tatcha Oil Control Sheets.
Vulkan: From your red carpet looks to everyday outfits, you always make a statement. Who are some of your style icons, and where do you draw inspiration from?
CLS: I draw style inspiration from Paris Hilton and Kylie Verzoza. They are queens!
Vulkan: Looking ahead, what’s one dream fashion or beauty collaboration you’d love to make happen—and why?
CLS: One dream fashion or beauty collaboration I’d love to make happen is Chanel for fashion and beauty and Laneige for beauty.