NEW YORK—Altair Eyewear, a division of Marchon Eyewear, and Draper James, the Southern-inspired lifestyle brand founded by Reese Witherspoon, announced today that they have entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement for the design, manufacturing and distribution of Draper James optical eyewear. The brand’s first ever optical collection will be available beginning March 2019 and will debut at Vision Expo East in New York. “The Draper James optical styles will take cues from Draper James’ vibrant, upbeat ready-to-wear and accessories collections, celebrating femininity with a contemporary take on Southern charm,” according to a joint statement.

“I am thrilled that Draper James is partnering with Altair Eyewear, a leading expert in optical eyewear, to create a new line of glasses,” said Witherspoon, Draper James founder and creative director. “As a lifestyle brand, I feel it’s important to continue to add new categories that meet the everyday needs of our customers both in style and function."

"We are excited to embark on this venture with Draper James, a unique brand with a fresh point of view," said Nicola Zotta, president and CEO of Marchon Eyewear. “We look forward to partnering with Draper James and Reese Witherspoon on expressive optical eyewear collections that complement the brand’s lifestyle and extend the current assortment into an exciting new category and market.”

The new Draper James optical eyewear line is scheduled to be distributed globally and sold in optical chains and specialty retailers as well as through independent eyecare practices, the companies said.

Draper James is a Southern-inspired lifestyle brand that embodies the personal style and sensibility of its founder, Reese Witherspoon. Reese named the brand after her grandparents who taught her everything she knows about gracious Southern living. Draper James brings contemporary, and timeless Southern style to wardrobe and home. The direct-to-consumer business launched online in May 2015 followed by its flagship store in Nashville that fall. Draper James also has brick-and-mortar locations in Dallas, Lexington and Atlanta. Designed in-house, the collection consists of ready-to-wear, accessories and home accents.

Altair supports independent eyecare professionals with advanced eyewear technologies and distinctive brands including Anne Klein, bebe, Cole Haan, Joseph Abboud, JOE Joseph Abboud, and Revlon. Altair is sold through more than 10,000 independent optical retailers. Altair is a division of Marchon Eyewear, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and distributors of quality eyewear and sunwear, and a subsidiary of VSP Global.