From the very beginning of her career, Jenee Naylor has been embedded in the design world. From the start of her blog and rise to icon status as a digital tastemaker, all the way to the launch of her luxury eyewear brand, 12PM Studios, earlier this year. As a designer and longtime creative who works […]
Menej ako 1 min. min.
From the very beginning of her career, Jenee Naylor has been embedded in the design world. From the start of her blog and rise to icon status as a digital tastemaker, all the way to the launch of her luxury eyewear brand, 12PM Studios, earlier this year.
As a designer and longtime creative who works with a range of media, Naylor is no stranger to the deep understanding of visual aesthetics, rousing concepts, and innovative techniques that come with the art world—which is exactly why she went straight to Art Basel Miami 2025 to celebrate the launch of 12PM Studios‘ new Winter collection. In addition to a sophisticated soiree fêting the collection, she also spent her time away from New York City’s chilly winter seeking new creative inspiration, indulging in her favorite artists‘ newest pieces, and tapping into all of the must-know art movements and trends taking over the industry—plus, Art Basel Miami is notoriously a chic scene, so what better place to show off her signature style and beauty looks than in the tropical city?
In between exploring art exhibits at Miami Art Week, touring the beachside city, and fêting her latest collection’s launch, Naylor spoke to L’OFFICIEL about Art Basel’s dynamic programming, the inspiration she draws from visionary contemporary artists, and some of her favorite fashion and beauty trends dominating the cultural zeitgeist right now.
L’OFFICIEL: Did you have any places in Miami that you were especially excited to see while you visited for Miami Design Week?
Jenee Naylor: I was especially excited to see Overdue Recognition participating in Miami Design Week! They’re a local, black-owned art gallery in the DC/MD/VA area from which I get the majority of my art. Additionally, I was excited to check out the art installation by Memories of The Future, which is an Italian furniture brand that I absolutely love.
L’O: What drives you as a designer or feeds your artistic senses? Do you have any inspirations in the art or design world that you’re looking forward to seeing during Miami Design Week?
JN: As a designer, I’m really driven by the idea of creating a space of inclusion and accessibility to others. My goal was to create a luxurious product that can be within anyone’s reach, without compromise. I love creating with the framework that timeless eyewear can be an everyday possibility for those who seek it. In terms of inspiration, I get a lot of my creative and interior insight from Miami Design Week. The art scene, in general, reinvigorates me and leaves my creative cup full of references to tap into.
L’O: Luxury feel is one of the defining traits of your brand. What does the word ‘luxury’ mean to you? Is it a physical element, or is it a mindset?
JN: Luxury, to me, is a physical element. It’s more than just paying a higher price point for a good or service. It’s about great quality, unique designs, and timeless craftsmanship. Luxury speaks to an overall experience at large. At 12PM Studios, luxury can be seen, felt, and experienced from the time you place an order on the website to the moment you receive your product in hand. Everything from our elevated packaging to our intentional customer service is meant to bring the element of luxury to our customers.
L’O: With 12PM Studios, do you have a specific philosophy that guides your creative or business decisions?
JN: 12PM Studios is all about redefining luxury, not as something unattainable, but as something that is a part of daily life. Our goal is to elevate everyday moments. My guiding philosophy for the brand is a belief that true luxury is rooted in thoughtful design and meaning behind every detail. Ultimately, this is the lens that guides what we create and how we position our frames.
L’O: To date, what’s been your favorite piece from 12PM Studios?
JN: I would have to say Aspen Mocha is my favorite to date. It’s from our new Winter Collection, and it’s really my dream sunglass frame! Not only does it embody my personal style, but it truly encapsulates the overall goal and mission that we’re trying to bring to the luxury eyewear space: innovative design and an unforgettable luxury experience, all at an approachable price point.
L’O: What’s your philosophy when it comes to style? Is there a specific aesthetic or mindset that guides your outfits, both on a daily basis and for special occasions like this one?
JN: When it comes to my personal style, my philosophy is pretty simple: I gravitate towards pieces that are easy to wear. I hate fussing with my clothes or constantly having to adjust something. No matter how interesting or bold a piece is, it still has to be easy to wear. This ensures I feel just as confident as I look. I also like choosing pieces that do the work for me (i.e. statement skirts, cool jackets, and interesting silhouettes). In terms of everyday dressing, I have to love every piece that I add to my wardrobe. From the fit, to the colorway, and the cut, it has to be something that makes getting dressed on a daily basis easy and effortless.
L’O: Bold, dynamic looks are a major part of your wardrobe—are there any styles, accessories, or trends in particular that you’re loving this season?
JN: As someone who doesn’t typically wear a lot of prints, I’ve been loving the animal print trend over the past few seasons. I enjoy playing around with more neutral animal prints (zebra, leopard, snakeskin, etc.). It’s a cool and pretty easy way to add more interest to a look without thinking too hard. In terms of specific styles, I’ve always been someone who loves wearing a strong shoulder pad. It makes me feel confident, powerful, and is a super flattering silhouette for my body type.
L’O: Are there any particular aesthetics or trends you’re loving (or hating) at the moment? What are you looking forward to seeing from the fashion world in the upcoming seasons?
JN: Something that I’m looking forward to in the upcoming Spring/Summer 2026 season is seeing brands lean more into their own individuality. I love when brands define the type of person they’re trying to dress: who they are, what they do for a living, where they’re going, etc. My hope is for brands to get back to a place where they’re prioritizing their own unique perspective and aiming to stand apart in their own individuality.
L’O: As you look back over the years, how much has your style changed? Are there any looks from the past that you’d still wear today?
JN: My style has definitely evolved throughout the years, just by way of getting older, learning more about myself, and becoming more confident in my own body. Although it’s changed to a degree, I’ve been quite consistent in gravitating towards pieces and styles that have always made me feel comfortable. For instance, blazers, mini skirts, suiting, and tailoring, in general, have always been a part of my style, are flattering to my body type, and will continue to be staple pieces in my wardrobe.
L’O: Do you have any specific beauty/skincare products that are must-haves in your beauty routine right now?
JN: When it comes to skincare, I’m really loving the Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads by YSE Beauty. I’ve been using them since spring, and I’ve really noticed a change in my skin texture and radiance. I’m also a huge fan of the Youth Watery Oil Serum by Guerlain. It has been a constant in my skincare routine and always leaves my skin feeling hydrated and moisturized. When it comes to beauty, I’ve been obsessed with the newest Danessa Myricks Lightwork Palette! The eyeshadow colors are stunning and super pigmented! It’s my go-to when I need to create any kind of eye look.
L’O: As a seasoned traveler, have you discovered any tricks over the years to stay energized and refreshed while away from home?
JN: I can’t say that I’ve truly mastered the ability to stay energized in the midst of traveling. However, one non-negotiable is getting a good night’s rest. No matter how short the trip, I always make sure to travel with my Tempur-Pedic pillow and Olli Sleep Gummies. I’m a pretty light sleeper, so it’s important to have my go-to tools handy so that I can be as well rested as possible!
L’O: What’s your favorite way to unwind after attending events like the ones at Miami Design Week? Are you at the parties, or are you more in the pajamas and skincare at 10 p.m. camp?
JN: When I have a busy week of traveling and attending events, I love taking advantage of any downtime that I have to rest! I can say with confidence that I 100% fall into the category of pajamas and skincare by 10 p.m.
