Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Heavenlei Whitters. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Heavenlei , thanks for joining us today. So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

I feel the educational system from K-18 is close minded. It gave me 1 class that was a quarter of the 4 years of high school. Amongst that class just 2 weeks were dedicated to sewing. Not saying they should have given me a fashion program but DEFINITELY more guidance in creative industries could’ve been helpful. VS. the pressure of only fitting into the “normal” math science reading writing jobs. Not that those aren’t important but what about the rest of the world? Not only this but I feel there was a lack of financial learning. Health classes weren’t up to par. The REAL life skills and experiences you go through we are not prepped for.

Heavenlei , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Howdy my name is Heavenlei and I’ve been making sh*t up since November 8th 2000. However “heavenlei made” has been in the making for the past 2,065 days. Getting up everyday AND dressed is something to be proud of. Putting yourself together for the day. Fuels you up with confidence, self esteem and boosts cognitive function. For my 18 year old entrepreneur self had many days getting started where she would even miss this simple step somehow. I questioned my own style and clothings authenticity. Being in a generation full of fast fashion and social media, this is easily tricky. It gets sticky and even I find failure some mediocre days. I love the adjustment my own consumerism has taken. Discipline was devouring up my shopaholic tendencies. Thrifting really shut that up making it affordable and sustainable. Discovering quality over quantity in garments. Growing up became less work and more reward. Followers, fans, and most importantly failures come and go. Like everything in life! It’s simple… be present, unique and own that. Remember worrying is like worshiping a problem. So give it up! Giving guidance and support in the fashion industry is always my favorite job.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Patience. Pretty things take lots of this. Boo. Boring? I know. However this is real I fear. The backstory is just a girl in a rush. ALWAYS. Life goals are to be satisfied. I learned what’s satisfying? Taking time. Indulging truly begins when you S L O W down.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

You never know! No matter how many times you do something there is always going to be a new other way. The whole unlearn to learn deal. Don’t ever close your mind off to new ideas. Stay open. Be able and willing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.depop.com/heavenleimade/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavenleimade/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@heavenleiaingele

Image Credits

These are photos i took, my sister, or a friend… i guess i could probably have paid someone to take some fresh ones of me in my sewing / design space. But for the sake of time i just settled for these. LMK if i need to carve out time and money to hire a photographer and i can!