There’s so much to do and see (and eat, of course) when you’re in New Orleans for the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. One of the liveliest ways to experience the fun is to stop by SOKO MRKT. Inside the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, that space centers the work of BIPOC entrepreneurs. There are so many to visit, selling everything from vitamins and jewelry to clothing and swimming caps specifically for Black hair, that it can be hard to know where to look. But one booth, better yet, brand, that stood out was Vontélle Eyewear.
A personal favorite co-founded by Nancey Harris and Tracy Green, I stopped by to check their latest in not just sunglasses, but prescription eyewear. All of the brand’s pieces have a wealth of character and color to boot, from the Dwayne glasses inspired by the A Different World character, to the oversized Flower Power Cheetah frames by Kendra Dandy, to frames covered in stunning African print. There’s even a whole collection for kids, including a collaboration with Nickelodeon and frames inspired by the book Naevia Magic Glasses from 8-year-old author Naevia Thompson.
The uniqueness of the frames isn’t just about pops of color. According to the brand’s page, each offering is made to fit the unique features of Black women, men and kids. “Vontélle frames are intentionally designed with wider bridges, longer temples, and larger lens sizes to celebrate the diversity of our facial features—whether you’re blessed with high cheekbones, fuller faces, or broader noses,” their “About Us” reads. “We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our frames are crafted to fit beautifully and comfortably, so you can feel confident all day long.”
People shuffled into the booth to try on frames, hear about great deals in place for festivalgoers, and to see what’s new. “We doubled what we did last year, in two days,” said Green. If you couldn’t make it there before the holiday weekend came to a close, you’re in luck. We’re sharing a few of our favorites from the brand, and you can find them over at Vontelle.com. Fingers crossed, you’ll see them back at EFOC in 2026!
Black folks love a good tortoise shell don’t we? This multicolored version, which turns into a marble print, pops even harder thanks to the optional pink lenses.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
A bestseller, the oversized Rwanda Wayfarer adds character to any look thanks to its bright and stunning print.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
If there’s one thing I adore, it’s a cat-eye frame. Add to it an ornate design, and a nod to Charlotta Spears Bass, the first Black woman to be nominated for vice president of the United States, and you’ve got yourself a winner.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
Purple reigns! Wear them as sunnies or sunglasses and these beauties are sure to help you make an aesthetic statement.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
You can’t forget about the kids. Inspired by the book Naevia’s Science Experiment, the colors and design match the vibrancy of the story.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
These red-hot frames offer chic transparency, while the arms are also covered in an eclectic print. Both touches are sure to make the glasses pop on any face.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear
A one-of-a-kind design for a one-of-a-kind man. The frames pack plenty of style while remaining lightweight and fabulous.
Available at Vontélle Eyewear