tortoise shell patterns are commonly seen in jewelry and eyewear, like these yummy specks from warby parker in sea smoke tortoise.  but there’s plenty of love to go around in the design world too.

i’m sure you remember when nate berkus came out with these lacquered tortoise shell versions for target a few years ago. i bought the ivory option and just recently hung it in my guest bathroom…

while i think an installation of authentic shells on a wall is pretty, something about it gives me the creeps.  i’ve bought real shells for clients before, but i seriously cringe when i touch them.  i definitely prefer faux here.

i’m swooning over this gold version from zgallerie.  three of these on a wall, yes please.

or these cool napkin rings, also from zgallerie, love both the gold and silver!

another nate berkus goodie from target

drooling over these vintage tables on 1stdibs

have you ever seen tortoise tile? it’s a first for me too!

i may have to get one of these for my iPhone when my kate spade cover wears out. which might be sooner rather than later if i don’t quit dropping it!

what about you? how do you do the tortoise trend? do you prefer real or faux?
design swell. live well.