We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrew Whitfield and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andrew, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I decided to create my own business because growing up I fell in love with the many different avenues of being a creative entrepreneur; from photography, event planning, marketing, design, and of course fashion to name a few. I figured the best way to get all my ideas out would be to create a business where I can freely express myself and the vision I had through these creations under one name/brand.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My brand iMPOLITE is what keeps me busy, it has become my lifestyle. I started my brand as a way to get out my creative expressions. To be free in being able to create whatever it is that I like, and call it my own; with the hopes of it inspiring and resonating with other people as well. Since starting my brand, I feel that it has been a gateway of self-discovery and opportunity as a creative entrepreneur. I have been able to work for brands such as Swarovski, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Prada, NYFW, Chrisitan Louboutin, and Golden Goose to name a few. I have been able to style some of the biggest artists in the world, and have my brand worn by artists that are household names such as Lil Wayne and Swae Lee; which is something I would only dream of growing up. I have been able to find out what I like and don’t like; as well as, the direction in which I want to take my brand. I feel that as I grow my ideas evolve, and change, and I am continually learning; which makes my brand better with time. There are so many ideas I still want to express through my brand. I’ve learned through my brand to create from the heart, and that there are people out there that will love and appreciate what you create so just put it out there, and don’t think too much on the results, but more so on putting out work that you are proud of and enjoy. I want the world to know that my brand is all about freedom, self expression, and just being you, unapologetically.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I was born and raised in South Florida, Broward County, Lauderhill to be specific, and I must say there is no place like it. From the people, the culture, the weather and everything in between we live in a magical place. Nowadays, my favorite spots to hang out are in Wynwood (Miami). I would go shopping in Miami Design District or Bal Harbour. I’m pretty simple. I love a good lowkey bar with nice music. I would probably recommend Coyo Taco and 1-800-Lucky; those are some of my favorite places, and I can’t forget the beach of course.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My biggest inspirations are my friends, peers, and other creatives. I think that all of us have unique talents, and bring different things to this world. So I am inspired by anyone who can take an idea and bring it to life.
Website: www.impolite.us
Instagram: @impolite.us