Robert Baylock is the owner of DaVinci Paris Fashion LLC and an alumnus of The LAEDA Women’s Business Academy (WBA). DaVinci Paris Fashion is an affordable urban clothing brand offering stylish apparel for men, women, and children of all ages.

At DaVinci Paris, artistry meets urban culture to create bold, innovative designs that empower self-expression. The brand’s mission is to inspire individuality and confidence through high-quality fashion that reflects the vibrant energy of modern city life.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Robert to learn more about his entrepreneurial journey and his experience participating in LAEDA’s training programs.

LAEDA: What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

“After working as a child counselor for nearly 10 years, I reached a turning point in my life and decided it was time for a change. I told myself, “I’m tired of making someone else rich.” If I could show up every day, stay committed, and work hard for someone else, I knew I could do the same for my family and myself.

That realization became a driving force for me to build something of my own—something that would create a lasting impact. I wanted to create a legacy and build generational wealth for my family, turning my dedication and work ethic into something that could grow far beyond a paycheck.”

LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for fashion—it’s something that dates all the way back to my early teenage years. As I grew older, that passion only became present in my everyday life. My friends would often call me for a “fit check” or ask me to go shopping with them when they needed help putting together an outfit.

Fashion has always been a natural part of who I am, and it continues to be a space where I express creativity, confidence, and personal style.”

LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending WBA. Major takeaways? “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help?

“The program opened my eyes to many aspects of business that I was not previously aware of. Before coming to LAEDA, my understanding of entrepreneurship was mainly centered on providing great customer service and working hard to out-hustle and out-sell the competition.

Through the program, I learned that running a business goes far beyond that. I gained important knowledge about paying taxes on time, building business credit, and understanding the legal requirements of operating a business properly.

LAEDA helped me shift my mindset and gave me the tools and awareness I needed to begin building my business the right way.”

LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. Challenges? Successes? Failures?

“I started DaVinci Paris Fashion and took it on the road, turning it into a full promotion tour experience. My best friend and I traveled across the East Coast—Atlanta, North Carolina, South Carolina, Miami—and even out West. People often asked me, “Why are you going so far?” and my answer was always, “Because they have to see it. They have to feel it.” I believed that if we built momentum in other places, it would come back home even stronger.

When the world shut down in 2020, we adapted and met people where they were. We set up at what felt like our own “mall” on Liberty & Louis Street, where customers would come out to shop and support. Some days we sold out completely, bringing in $700 to $1,000 a day, and other days we did not make a sale at all. Through it all, our number one rule was simple: never give up—ever.

With consistent hard work and dedication, we were able to turn that vision into reality. In 2024, we opened our flagship store, DaVinci Paris House of Fashion, located in my old neighborhood at 1450 S. 9th Street, Camden, New Jersey 08104.”

LAEDA: Where is your business today?

“As of today, we are continuing to grow and see strong progress in our business. Our sales are up, and we are expanding our import operations while also building relationships with manufacturing companies abroad.

We are also excited to announce that we are in the planning stages of our very first annual fashion show this summer—an important milestone as we continue to elevate the brand and share our vision on a larger stage.”

LAEDA: Do you have advice for future or existing entrepreneurs?

“To all inspiring and up-and-coming entrepreneurs, the first thing I would encourage you to do is connect with resources like @LAEDA.

Focus on networking consistently and intentionally—surround yourself with like-minded individuals who will inspire, challenge, and support your growth. Do not be afraid to ask questions and stay curious.

Most importantly, never give up. Anything worth having is worth working for and fighting through. A dream may begin in the dark, but it is up to you to bring it into the light and share it with the world.”

DaVinci Paris Fashion LLC can be reached at:

Contact: Robert Baylock, Owner of DaVinci Paris Fashion LLC

Phone number: (856) 361- 4041

Instagram: @dvpfashionhouse

Facebook: DaVinci Paris Fashion

About the Women’s Business Academy (WBA):

The Women’s Business Academy (WBA) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the winter each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. For more Information, visit us at laeda.com. You can also refer an entrepreneur by using this form.