Hasta La Ideas

Six fresh takes on classic tortoiseshell shades

Traditional tortoise frames hold steady as an enduring classic in optics. With fresh proportions and bold patterns, these six shades modernize the eyewear staple.

Margaret Howell x Oliver Goldsmith

Good luck tracking down this limited-edition collaboration between two British fashion vets, Margaret Howell and Oliver Goldsmith. The Consul references a 1966 design from the latter’s extensive archive of eyewear; the gray tortoise is a novel twist, and the frame and lens colorway are exclusive. They run £225 from Margaret Howell stores.

Andrea

The Andrea riffs on the Clubmaster’s popularity, combining a half-rimmed model with Super‘s instant hit, the Flat Top, and adding a streaked tortoise acetate to lend old-school sophistication. Buy them online for $165.

Leonard

A standout from Illesteva‘s current collection channeling the glamor of ’50s and ’60s Havana, the chunky profile and two-tone frames make the Leonard au courant. Get them from Steven Alan for $160.

Xray

Another slick take on the Clubmaster style, this pair’s black-and-clear tortoise frames amp up the rockabilly ’50s side of the style. Get them at Oak for $48.

Number One

A deft mix of Wayfarer and cat-eye frames, Karen Walker’s Number One shades evoke silver-screen elegance. Get them from Gargyle for $170.

Grant

With ultra-refined lines and more conventional good looks, the Grant makes the classic look current with patented “snap-hinge” technology—doing away with soldered joints and screws—an innovation of the Mykita line. Visit the label’s website to purchase.