Animal Prints act like neutrals against patterns and colors. Like the colors black and white, they contrast and complement with patterns and marry together fabrics, patterns and accessories for the perfect balance. Tortoise shell, cheetah, and leopard all have a sexiness factor that will make people take a second glance and wonder about what type of person dares to wear such a diva print. Be a bit adventurous and stand out from the crowd of drab colors and repetitious fashion choices. Be uniquely you with a pair of tortoise stilettos. (Read More.....)
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Tortoise shell glassware has been a luxury item dating back to the Egyptians. The Egyptians used to sell tortoise shell luxuries to the Romans for decorative items. It became popular again when Napoleon conquered Egypt and took back with him artifacts of ancient Egypt which then influenced design at that time in general. It is interesting to note that tortoise shell is not from real tortoise but rather from the Hawksbill turtle which are land based. Faux Imitation tortoise shell was first created in glass in the 1880s. The complex process involves three layers of glass which produces the beautiful amber patterns. Later faux tortoise shell was developed out of plastic and in Bakelite in the early 1920's which saved these turtles from extinction because the mass popularity of the pattern. Today it is illegal to use real tortoiseshell in most parts of the world which is a good thing because no luxuries should cost a living thing its life. Today we can enjoy God's great design seen in creation without causing harm to these precious creatures. 
Tortoise shell sunglasses has been a hot accessory since the 60's and they still are going strong today. The beauty of the tortoise shell makes it the perfect choice for glasses because of the intricate detail in the pattern. The natural amber colors of the shell work perfectly with brass and gold colors, so you will often see the designer brands featuring the metal ornaments on their frames. Designers such as Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Prada and many more designers have featured tortoise shell glasses in their collections. Tortoise shell looks particularly striking with blonde and dark hair. Designer glasses can run several hundred dollars, but we have listed some outstanding glasses that are available from the 20 dollar range and up. Check out some of these hot looks. 
From luxury handbags to colorful scarves the Hermes brand has grown into an internationally recognized brand and followed by notable celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Elle MacPherson, Elizabeth Hurley, and Madonna. Established in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a saddle shop in Paris, the Hermes brand today still specializes in leather, accessories, and luxury goods. Hermès brings attention to their unique classic Hermès silk scarves and they are also widely known for their Berkin and Kelly handbags. The material of their handbags are often crafted from exotic leathers such as lizard, crocodile and python. Within each category there are many different leather choices which make their bags so expensive. Check out some of their luxurious looks 
If you like the intricate beauty in tortoise shell, you will love Roberto Cavalli's bold fashion collections. Jungle prints, bright floral designs, and animal prints has been his signature style since the early part of his carreer in the 70's. Cavalli's formal eduction started at the Institute of Art of Florence where he first began his facination with painted textiles and vibrant patterns which caught attention of Italian textile companies. It is said that he travels throughout the world with a digital camera ready in hand, ready to capture a picture that he can transform into a new motif. Roberto Cavalli is a dramatic designer who designs pieces that flatter the female form. Roberto Cavalli is one of the most well-regarded fashion artists of his time. 
Have you ever been frustrated finding a gift for your dad, brother, father in law or your own husband? A hand crafted tortoise shell pen speaks volumes, especially if it is made out of exotic material. Not only is it an elegant gift but something practical which can be used at an office or at home. Some hand crafted pens can be quite pricy at more than 500 dollars, but you can also find pens that start as low as 14 dollars. Buy him a pen that he can be proud of wearing in his jacket pocket and will be proud to wip out in front of his work associates. 
Vintage combs are highly valued by collectors as the materials are highly valued and rare such as tortoiseshell, horn and ivory. During the decadent 1850's the styles were often heavy with ornate details which were seen in the clothing attire, the voluminous hairstyles, and extra large hair accessories. Tortoiseshell was the choice material for ladies hair combs. Today with the invention of plastics, we can enjoy the beauty of this material without hurting the tortoises. During the times when they did use actual sea turtles for their shell, it was a cruel process to deprive the turtles of their shells. Many of these vintage combs can be found on ebay at affordable prices. With curles piled high, or french twists, there are endless ways you can wear these exquisite mantilla combs. 
During the 20's and 30's synthetic plastics became available which allowed the modern woman to wear her jewelry without the heavy weight of gold or silver. Jewelry became more affordable with the invention of mass production which allowed women to aquire the look of high end jewelry without the price tag. As plastics evolved, a wider variety of colors and finishes became available to jewelry. Phenolic resin was material that was very tough and it was also used to imitate and take on the properties of natural materials such as tortoise-shell and pearl. Processes were later developed further in the 20's which allowed an expansion of options which made way for purses, handbags, toys and many other products. Check out some of the tortoise shell hair accessories you can use to dress up your hair with.