The Rise of Black Girl Luxury: Jenee Naylor’s Vision for Accessible Eyewear
In today’s cultural zeitgeist, the term “Black girl luxury” has become a prevalent conversation starter, symbolizing empowerment and self-expression. However, as prices soar in the luxury market, the dream of high-end fashion can feel more like a distant fairy tale for many. Enter Jenee Naylor, whose innovative approach offers a refreshing perspective on this narrative.
A Personal Journey in Fashion
Jenee Naylor has cultivated a unique aesthetic within the realms of fashion and digital content. Known for her mantra of “great but simple,” she skillfully blends sophistication with practicality. Her outfits often highlight a fundamental truth: it’s not just about the clothing but how the accessories elevate the entire look. For Naylor, sunglasses serve as the ultimate accessory that can transform a mundane outfit into something extraordinary.
“My niche is fashion because I can discuss it every day,” she shared in an interview with theGrio. This passion has fueled her journey towards entrepreneurship, leading her to recognize an unmet need in the fashion industry. “As a creator, you learn so much about marketing and providing value, and that prepares you for ownership,” she remarked.
The Birth of 12 PM Studios
This realization catalyzed the launch of 12 PM Studios, an eyewear brand conceived to fill a growing void in quality, stylish, yet affordable fashion. Naylor observed the troubling trend of escalating prices in the fashion space, leading many consumers to feel excluded from quality design. “I want people to understand luxury is not a price point,” she emphasized, a sentiment that underscores her commitment to making fashion accessible.
The name “12 PM Studios” is deeply personal, invoking significant milestones in her life. From her wedding anniversary to the spirit of creative exploration, each element is woven into the brand’s identity. The thoughtfulness extends to the product design itself; Naylor ensures that the eyewear is unisex and available at attainable price points without compromising quality.
Redefining the Concept of Luxury
Naylor passionately redefines what luxury means—both for her customers and within the industry. “Luxury is not just a price tag; it’s the customer service, the online experience, and the quality of the product,” she explains. Her vision for 12 PM Studios encompasses all these elements, crafting a holistic luxury experience aimed at building community and connection.
She goes further, sharing insights from the production process. “Every time I received samples, I was inspired to choose 12 PM over high-end brands like Loewe or Bottega Veneta. I needed that experience to feel luxurious from start to finish,” she said. This level of dedication showcases her commitment to excellence.
A Deliberate and Thoughtful Launch
Creating a brand is never an easy feat, and Naylor, alongside her husband and co-founder, Joshua Prieto, dedicated two years to meticulously developing 12 PM Studios. “It was important that the product felt right,” she stated, highlighting that rushing the process wasn’t an option. In light of her values, she aims for a luxury experience that resonates with her audience—one built on authenticity and care.
Her attention to detail has paid off; when 12 PM Studios launched in August, the initial stock sold out in a matter of minutes. In just five short months, the brand has already exceeded its goals for 2025, a testament to both Naylor’s vision and the demand for thoughtfully crafted products.
Celebrating the Passion Behind the Brand
For Naylor, 12 PM Studios is more than just a business; it’s her “baby.” Pride radiates from her as she discusses the brand’s success. “I want consumers to understand that not all brands are out to exploit,” she emphasizes, advocating for a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship behind emerging Black-owned businesses.
“There are so many founders that are genuinely passionate about their craft,” she notes. “I want you to have the best possible product, and I’m doing everything I can to make that happen.” This transparency and commitment are central to her message: consumers should support brands that are ethically driven and dedicated to quality.
The Power of Accessories
For Naylor, sunglasses are more than mere accessories; they symbolize a small but impactful way people can express their style and confidence. “I realized that people don’t want to take them off,” she reflects, noting how her eyewear can be a finishing touch that allows individuals to feel their best without extra effort.
This desire for a little boost in self-esteem resonates deeply with her audience. Naylor’s journey encapsulates a story of entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and a sincere desire to bring quality and affordability to fashion—a rarity in today’s marketplace.
Through her work with 12 PM Studios, Jenee Naylor stands as a beacon for redefining luxury, fueled by a commitment to community and an unwavering belief that style should be accessible to all.