The reimagined frames created in partnership with Kadeem Hardison bring a key element of the series' style into a new chapter
BROOKLYN, N.Y., Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Vontélle, a Black women-owned eyewear brand based in Brooklyn, is proud to announce that its DEEMED collection frames will be featured in Netflix's upcoming A Different World sequel. With the official trailer for the upcoming sequel now out, one of the series' most recognizable fashion statements is officially making its return to the screen: Dwayne Wayne's iconic flip-up glasses.
Created in partnership with Kadeem Hardison, Vontélle Eyewear's DEEMED collection reimagines the iconic flip-up glasses inspired by Hardison's character, Dwayne Wayne. With a blend of nostalgia, quality craftsmanship, and a collaborative vision, the reimagined collection features two aviator-style metal frames: Dwayne in Gold and Cleofis in Silver, inspired by the character's first and middle names, respectively. Each frame can be paired with a magnetic, removable flip-up clip-on available in Chestnut, Blush, Cerulean, and Silver, offering a versatile and contemporary take on the iconic look.
"I've always loved a good pair of glasses, so DEEMED working with Vontelle just felt right. They're a Black woman-owned company doing their thing, and getting to celebrate A Different World together makes it that much better," says Kadeem Hardison, actor, director and co-founder of DEEMED.
The inclusion of the Vontélle x DEEMED frames marks a significant milestone for Vontélle as they continue to celebrate culture, diversity, and self-expression through luxury eyewear. Their presence in the highly anticipated sequel is also a powerful testament to DEEMED's commitment to higher education, creativity, diversity, and the enduring cultural legacy of A Different World—a show whose impact continues to inspire generations.
"We are incredibly proud and humbled to see this collaboration come full circle. From sitting down with Kadeem Hardison to reimagine his iconic Dwayne Wayne flip-up glasses as a modern aviator with a magnetic, removable clip-on, to now seeing Vontélle Eyewear featured on the big screen in the highly anticipated A Different World sequel." – Tracy Green, Co-Founder and CEO
"This is more than an eyewear collection; it is a celebration of culture, creativity, nostalgia, and the power of representation. We are honored to have Kadeem's vision and legacy become part of Vontélle's story, and we couldn't be more excited for audiences to experience the DEEMED collection when the sequel premieres on September 24." – Nancey Harris, Co-Founder and COO of Vontélle Eyewear.
The sequel brings the collaboration full circle, carrying a defining element of Dwayne Wayne's original style into the next chapter of A Different World. Hardison's flip-up glasses became synonymous with his character and the series feature of the frames further solidifies his lasting mark on fashion and popular culture. The collaboration also supports The Kadeem Hardison Scholarship Fund, with a percentage of each purchase from the eyewear collection awarded to a young adult pursuing higher education.
The feature of the nostalgic glasses in Netflix's upcoming A Different World marks a momentous occasion for Vontélle Eyewear and DEEMED.
The Vontélle x DEEMED collection is available to shop online now at vontelle.com.
About Vontélle Eyewear
Founded in 2019, Vontélle was created to meet the demand for better-fitting, vibrant, fashion-forward eyewear designed for diverse faces. Vontélle is a Black women-owned and operated luxury eyewear company known for its bold designs, culturally inspired prints, and inclusive approach to fit. Drawing inspiration from the African Diaspora and cultures from around the world, Vontélle creates optical frames and sunglasses in a range of sizes and styles designed to complement diverse facial features. The collection includes prescription eyewear and customized lens options, including tints, transitions, and blue-light-blocking lenses. With a design philosophy rooted in culture, individuality, and global storytelling, Vontélle empowers people to see themselves—and the world—through a broader lens. For more information, visit vontelle.com.
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About Kadeem Hardison
Kadeem Hardison is an acclaimed actor and director best known for his iconic role as Dwayne Wayne on A Different World. With a career spanning more than four decades across film and television, Hardison has remained a beloved figure in American pop culture, influencing generations through his work, style and unmistakable point of view. He is also co-founder of DEEMED, an eyewear and lifestyle brand inspired by individuality, creativity and culture.
Media Contact
Vontélle Marketing, Vontélle, 1 833-839-3588, [email protected]
SOURCE Vontélle
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