Altair Eyewear, a subsidiary of Marchon Eyewear, has signed an exclusive global licensing agreement with Reese Witherspoon’s Southern-inspired fashion and lifestyle brand, Draper James.
The association will see Altair design, manufacture and distribute Draper James optical product. The line holds a sunwear license with B Robinson Optical Inc.
This will mark the brand’s first-ever optical collection, with eyewear set to be available to the public beginning in March 2019, following its debut to wholesale accounts at Vision Expo East in New York.
The collection will range in price from USD 160 to USD 215.
“I am thrilled that Draper James is partnering with Altair Eyewear Inc., a leading expert in optical eyewear, to create a new line of glasses,” said Reese Witherspoon, Draper James founder and creative director in a press release statement.
“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,” the statement further added.
According to a press release from the eyewear manufacturer, the optical styles will “take cues from Draper James’ vibrant, upbeat ready-to-wear and accessories collections, celebrating femininity with a contemporary take on the Southern charm”.
Marchon president and chief executive officer Nicola Zotta said, “We are excited to embark on this venture with Draper James, a unique brand with a fresh point of view. 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 line is planned to be distributed globally and sold in optical chains and specialty retailers as well as through independent eye care practices.
