Sophie Lloyd recently joined The Mistress Carrie Podcast to share insights on handling criticism and to advocate for guitar designs that accommodate women’s body shapes, particularly for seated play.
During the discussion, Lloyd highlighted a challenge that many female guitarists face: the physical discomfort caused by traditional guitar shapes. “I’ve struggled before because, well, we have boobs,” she explained. “Sometimes the way a guitar’s body is cut can press uncomfortably when seated. It’s something male designers might not consider, but it’s an important factor for women.”
She noted how her own guitar design addresses this issue. “The shape of mine fits really nicely—it cradles my boob perfectly. It makes such a difference because I spend a lot of time sitting down writing or working on music. Standing up, it’s less noticeable, but for seated practice or writing sessions, having a guitar that fits my frame is essential. Women should have options that fit them comfortably without compromises.”
Lloyd’s remarks echo sentiments shared by other female guitarists. Blues-rock guitarist Chantel McGregor previously spoke to The Telegraph about similar struggles, specifically the awkwardness caused by breasts while playing seated. “When you sit down, you either have to rest your boobs on the instrument or deal with them being squashed. Honestly, you don’t even need a bra most of the time—your breasts end up propped on the guitar,” McGregor said. She added, “The music industry is still male-dominated, and the design of instruments doesn’t account for women’s bodies.”
As Sophie Lloyd continues to inspire with her guitar content on social media, fans can catch her live at The Whisky A Go Go on January 16. Her advocacy and music remind us that inclusivity in design is essential for breaking barriers in the male-dominated music industry.
