A guide to colorful tortoiseshell glasses.

Summary in 30 seconds:

TLDR: Colorful tortoiseshell frames are a classic for a reason, but they also evolve as trends change. Scroll down to find out what’s new and exciting when it comes to colorful tortoiseshell glasses.

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• Classic tortoiseshell frames are chic
• Celebrities love modern tortoiseshell frames
• A short history of the classic tortoiseshell glasses frames 
• How to choose a color for your new tortoiseshell collection

Everything you need to know about the tone-on-tone classic look

There are few accessories as classically chic and sophisticated as the perfect pair of tortoiseshell glasses. But you don’t have to worry that any creatures are harmed in the making of modern tortoiseshell frames. Instead, the pattern is created through subtle dye variations in acetate meant to mimic the look of an actual tortoise’s shell.

“Tortoiseshell has been used for well over 100 years, (Thankfully not the real kind for over 50 years),” said Karen Giberson/President & CEO Accessories Council. “It’s a universally loved pattern all over the globe.”

One of the reasons people tend to love tortoiseshell so much is because it flatters almost every face and skin tone. And with modern color-infused tortoiseshell variations, you can also choose a frame to enhance your eyes or contrast your hair – even if it’s pink or aqua.

If you’re a fan of classic Hollywood films, you’ve surely noticed Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly wearing oversized tortoiseshell specs in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.  James Dean, the epitome of midcentury bad boy cool, was often photographed wearing iconic Ray-Ban tortoiseshell frames. Fast forward and celebrities from Oprah to Ryan Gosling regularly wear classic tortoiseshell frames.

Colorful tortoiseshell glasses are having a moment

If you think you’re seeing the classic tortoiseshell frames in a rainbow of hues, you’re right. “Fashionable colors such as grays, blues, pinks, and even yellows, are currently very popular at all price points,” Giberson said. So you don’t have to break the bank to find an amazing pair just for you. Giberson also said that you can find great looking tortoiseshell eyeglasses from opening to the highest end luxury offerings. And good news! “The pattern is used for prescription sunglasses, sunglasses, and even readers.” 

Popular tortoiseshell styles

Aviator Full frame Cat eye Horn rimmed Square Rectangle

If you love the idea of colorful tortoiseshell frames more than bold colors, consider the new trend which is a lot more subtle. Seemingly the latest tortoiseshell frames are often dappled with pastel hues that are visible only from close up.

How do you choose a color? 

Like choosing any glasses frame, you have to fall in love with the shape and design first. That is unless you already have a signature color you favor. “What color to choose is very personal,” Giberson said. Also worth noting, “ Many designers and brands offer tortoiseshell options, from traditional shapes, to contemporary designs, to sport frames.” Giberson suggests that before picking a color you first “Start with a frame shape that flatters your face.”

Go for the bold

If you’re going for a fashion statement, be as bold as possible in size, color and design.  

If you prefer a more subtle look, Giberson said to choose a delicate or simple frame in a color that flatters your skin tone. Want to be a bit more playful? “You can further personalize by picking a lens color that either blends in or pops out, like a blue or green.”

We really love the way these neon green lenses make these exquisite Costa Del Mar sunglasses really pop. We’re also just the slightest bit obsessed with the way these Gucci frames unexpectedly go from tortoiseshell to bling.