Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Draper James DJ5036 eyeglasses good for small faces?
Can I get prescription lenses in the Draper James DJ5036 frames?
What is acetate and why is it used for eyeglass frames?
Who makes Draper James eyeglasses?
What face shapes look best in rectangle eyeglasses?
What colors does the DJ5036 come in?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Draper James DJ5036 Eyeglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Gradient color options (Blush, Plum, Sage) for a softer look
- Similar rectangle shape and sizing
- Same quality Altair/Marchon construction
- Tortoise patterns (Blue, Blush, Brown) for classic appeal
- Larger sizing (53-16-140) for medium to larger faces
- Highly rated by customers for quality and appearance
- Wider price range with budget-friendly options
- Kate Spade's established reputation in fashion eyewear
- Similar feminine, preppy design aesthetic
Read the full comparison
Draper James DJ5036 vs. Similar Rectangle Eyeglasses
If you're drawn to the Draper James DJ5036, you're likely looking for a rectangle frame that balances modern style with feminine details. Here's how it compares to other options in our collection.
DJ5036 vs. Draper James DJ5008
Both are rectangle acetate frames from Draper James at nearly identical prices ($114.92 vs. $114.23). The key difference is color: the DJ5036 offers solid and crystal acetates (Indigo Crystal, Black, Blush Crystal) with bold striped temple details, while the DJ5008 features gradient acetates (Blush, Plum, Sage) for a softer, more subtle look. If you want the signature Draper James striped pattern and versatile solid colors, choose the DJ5036. If you prefer a gradient fade effect, the DJ5008 is your pick.
DJ5036 vs. Draper James DJ5017
The DJ5017 is ideal if you need a slightly larger fit. At 53-16-140mm (vs. the DJ5036's 52-16-135mm), it offers more coverage and longer temples. The DJ5017 comes in classic tortoise patterns—Blue Tortoise, Blush Tortoise, and Brown Tortoise—which have a more traditional eyewear aesthetic. Customer reviews praise the DJ5017's quality and appearance. Choose the DJ5036 if you have a smaller face or prefer modern crystal acetates; go with the DJ5017 if you need a larger frame or love tortoise patterns.
DJ5036 vs. Kate Spade Atalina
Kate Spade's Atalina offers a similar preppy, feminine vibe but with New York flair instead of Southern charm. The Atalina has a wider price range ($55-$141.57), making it accessible at lower price points. Kate Spade is a more established name in fashion eyewear, but you'll miss the distinctive Draper James striped temple detail and the brand's unique Southern-inspired aesthetic. If Reese Witherspoon's design vision and the playful striped accents appeal to you, the DJ5036 is the better choice. If you're budget-conscious or prefer Kate Spade's brand identity, explore the Atalina.
Our recommendation: The Draper James DJ5036 hits a sweet spot for women with smaller to medium faces who want quality acetate frames with personality. The striped temple detail, compact sizing, and Southern-inspired design make it distinctive in a crowded rectangle frame market—and at $114.92, it's competitively priced for Altair/Marchon quality.
At a Glance
Draper James DJ5008 Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Gradient color options (Blush, Plum, Sage) for a softer look
- Similar rectangle shape and sizing
- Same quality Altair/Marchon construction
Cons:
- Slightly different temple design without the signature stripes
- May have different bridge/temple measurements affecting fit
- Gradient colors may be less versatile than solid options
Draper James DJ5017 Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Tortoise patterns (Blue, Blush, Brown) for classic appeal
- Larger sizing (53-16-140) for medium to larger faces
- Highly rated by customers for quality and appearance
Cons:
- Larger frame may overwhelm smaller faces
- Tortoise patterns less modern than crystal acetates
- Slightly longer temples may not suit all head sizes
Kate Spade Atalina Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Wider price range with budget-friendly options
- Kate Spade's established reputation in fashion eyewear
- Similar feminine, preppy design aesthetic
Cons:
- Different brand identity (New York vs. Southern charm)
- May lack the distinctive Draper James striped temple detail
- Sizing and fit may differ from DJ5036 proportions







