Tortoise shell has been around since ancient Roman times, when it was popular to use the animal shell for small details in the home and even on furniture like couches. Like all trends that have been around forever, it’s not a trend so much as people are falling in love with it again.
It’s enough of a pattern to stand out, but still neutral enough to wear everyday. It’s simultaneously cool, elegant, and ladylike. I’m obsessed with it right now. And it’s not just me! Designers everywhere seem to be putting their own spin on it. Not just fashion designers either. How about a high-quality pair of tortoise shell headphones ? Or stepping up your vanity game with a beautiful Mason-Pearson comb?
As far as jewelry and accessories go, a pair of thick tortoise shell hoops adds to pretty much any outfit. We’re wearing this pair all spring with a crisp white t-shirt and wide-leg jeans. Maybe even a kittenish slingback to really femme it up. The eye-catching structure of a Cult Gaia bag in the pattern can take you easily from day to night. Or how about a mod-ish pair of sunglasses for soaking up rays? You can catch us using all three.
Our favorites below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.