Every iconic show has that one outfit you never forget, and theA Different Worldreboot on Netflix is stacking them up fast. That’s all thanks to costume designer Provi Fulp, an Emmy-nominated Clark Atlanta University graduate who grew up describing herself as a mini Whitley Gilbert. For her, dressing this reboot wasn’t just another gig. It was a full-circle moment, and you can feel it in every scene.
Fulp loaded the wardrobe with Easter eggs for longtime fans. Deborah’s vintage mink makes an appearance, and a dress inspired by Kim’s sweater shows up for the eagle-eyed. Original cast member Jasmine Guy returns as Whitley Gilbert, now a beauty mogul dressed in Chanel, while new Hillman students get their own distinct looks. Fulp also made sure Black designers shared screen time with names like Marni and Gucci, and she led a team of Black and brown creatives behind the scenes. The band uniforms, football jerseys, and Greek life looks all honor HBCU culture down to the detail.
Her message lands beyond television, too. Fulp wants young viewers to see HBCUs as a real option and to remember that style doesn’t require wealth or designer tags. You can mix high and low. You can do vintage. So the question is, which Hillman look have you been trying to recreate? Tell us your favorite outfit from the series.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.