Tortoise Shell Sunglasses

Tortoise sunglasses are emblematic of American style and a key part of any wardrobe. Our tortoise frames are handcrafted in the US from the finest acetate sourced from around the globe.

What are tortoise shell sunglasses?

Tortoise shell sunglasses were once actually made from tortoise shells and some still call them turtle sunglasses. You’ll often also see tortoise glasses referred to as horn or horn-rimmed sunglasses, though a horn pattern differs a bit from a tortoiseshell pattern. Like tortoise glasses, horn frames were once made from animals horns. These days the classic colorations are created from cruelty-free acetate. Our tortoise colored sunglasses are handcrafted in a process that takes over 75 steps and more than two weeks to complete. The look is as classic as it gets, just look at JFK in his Saratoga sunglasses.

Timeless tortoise sunglasses

The classic brown tones of tortoise shell sunglasses (or horn rim glasses) flatter all complexions, making tort a look that just doesn’t go out of style. The variation in tortoiseshell softens the look and makes it easier to wear a bolder style, as thick-rimmed sunglasses show off the pattern. As tortoise acetate is handcrafted, every pair of tort sunglasses is completely unique, adding to their charm.

Shop our collection of tortoise shell sunglasses

Our classic collection of tortoise frames looks just as good now as it did in the 1960s, with iconic horn rimmed sunglasses for men and women like the Saratoga and Sirmont. Scroll to shop our collection of tortoise shell sunglasses for men and women now.

Why should you choose AO’s tortoise sunglasses?

AO tortoise sunglasses deliver high quality that comes from expert craftsmanship. All American Optical sunglasses are handcrafted in our Illinois factory using the finest materials, including German OBE hinges and Italian acetate. Not only can you expect your AO sunglasses to last, you can expect them to remain in style. Looks like the Saratoga (worn by JFK) and the Sirmont (worn by LBJ and Malcolm X) have remained in style for decades.