Conversations with Yannick Murphy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yannick Murphy.

Hi Yannick, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Yannick, and I’m the owner and creative director of a clothing brand called Elites Only.

My love for fashion started as early as I can remember. My mom introduced me to fashion and some of my earliest photos show me dressed in brands like Rocawear, Guess, Jordan, and Coogi—my mom always made sure I was on point with the latest styles. As I got older and started making my own choices, I began adding my own twist to how I dressed and expressed myself.
To me, being “fly” has never just been about what you buy, but how you put things together and make them your own. Growing up, nothing was really handed to me, so I learned how to be creative with what I had. That mindset shaped how I dressed, and eventually became part of my identity. Coming from New York, that type of creativity and expression is just part of the culture.

In 2022, I relocated to Atlanta, and that move pushed me to take my brand more seriously. What started with making a few pieces for friends quickly grew into people from different states supporting the brand—and eventually even people in other countries wearing Elites Only.

Now, my focus is on continuing to grow the brand, staying consistent, and connecting with a larger audience that relates to what Elites Only is all about.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some challenges I faced was developing my own sense of direction from young. Even though there was influences negative and positive. All of those experiences shaped me into the man I am today. Avoiding peer pressure, lack of individuality as a child. Finding my own passion for things and sticking to what I thought was cool compared to what others perceived as cool. Having to make something out of nothing and had to keep your head up high even though life may throw you things that knock you off track. Even though I faced challenges like every one else I honestly looked for a solution instead of soaking in it.

Some of the challenges I faced growing up was developing my own sense of direction at a young age. Finding my own passions was not always easy, especially when the things I thought were interesting or valuable did not always match what others considered “cool.” However, I learned the importance of staying true to myself and pursuing the things that genuinely brought me fulfillment. That decision helped me build confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of identity. Looking back, I can appreciate how every obstacle contributed to my growth and helped shape the person I am today.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Owner/Creative Director of an upcoming clothing brand known as Elites Only.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up in Queens, New York was honestly FUN more than anything. It was a time when life felt simple—no phones or social media, just genuine experiences and real connections. We spent hours outside, running around the neighborhood with friends from sunup to sundown, making games out of nothing and finding ways to entertain ourselves with whatever was around us. There was a lot of freedom, imagination, and creativity in those days. We weren’t worried about documenting every moment; we were busy living them.

The diversity and energy of Queens also played a huge role in shaping who I am. Being surrounded by different cultures, personalities, music, and styles exposed me to so many influences at an early age. By the time I got to junior high school, I started becoming more intentional about expressing myself. That’s when my creativity really began to show through my personal style. I became interested in fashion and started experimenting with different looks, mixing trends with my own ideas and drawing inspiration from the people and culture around me. What I wore became more than just clothing—it became a way to communicate who I was and what made me unique.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.elitesonly.bigcartel.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/elitesonly.co and www.instagram.com/_bossinainteazyy