THE STORY BEHIND TORTOISESHELL FRAMES

TORTOISE - the organic spotted pattern has been stirring up trends in eyewear for as long as anyone can remember.

Tortoiseshell frames were first popularized in the 1920s and used real turtles and large tortoises. To prevent the animals from becoming extinct, the practice was quickly banned worldwide in the 1970s thanks to an intervention from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
But that wasn’t the end of the road for tortoiseshell eyewear. In its place, manufacturers began using custom acetates that resembled the look of true tortoiseshell, without the destructive consequences.

The beauty of tortoiseshell: you cannot find two frames alike, as the pattern could be dark on one side, and light on the other! You may consider tortoiseshell to be one specific pattern, but there are actually quite a few different types of tortoise to choose from.
Havana Tortoise Also commonly referred to as “CLASSIC” - a pattern that features hues of orange and black, without a lot of contrast.
Tokyo Tortoise - is known for its high contrast. Traditional, yet avant-garde at the same time, Tokyo tortoise combines tones of yellow, black and brown.
Colored Tortoise - go beyond classic earthy-tones of tortoise shell with grey, red, green tortoise. A pattern easy to wear, while also sporting a bright color at the same time. Depending on the transparency of the frame, the colored tortoise can be bold or subtle.

KALEOS 'LEELOO'

KALEOS 'LOVE' SUNGLASSES

Whether you opt for an interpreted tortoise from Thom Browne, something bold shaped from George Keburia, or a classic creation from KALEOS, tortoise can be virtually anything you want it to be.
We love the idea of taking something classic and adding a touch of NOW – and your unique personality – to it!