No-one saw it coming. Seriously, who would have guessed that The Matrix would become one of Winter's most referenced fashion influences? The Matrix style fashion trend seems to have swooped in out of nowhere, all leather trench coats, combat boots and teeny, tiny oblong sunglasses.
Key motifs from the movie's costume department seems to have literally usurped every other high-brow cinema reference that fashion designers tend to be swayed by (or classic tropes like Scandi style and French Girl chic) in favour of computer hacker cool (as worn by by Carrie-Anne Moss's character Trinity and Keanu Reeves' Neo in the now cult 1999 film.)
We've been spotting elements of Matrix-inspired style on our favourite off-duty models and celebrities for a while now… But it was Hailey Bieber's post-gym get-up this week (she was heading to lunch with pal Kendall, apparently) that sealed The Matrix style fashion trend as the first major moment on 2023's style calendar.
Although, perhaps we shouldn't be so surprised that Matrix-dressing has become a thing… As Gen Z crave everything Y2K inspired, a film that came out at the turn of the millennium is obvious cat-nip. Likewise, wrapping up in tough trench coats and chunky boots has a clear link to our need to protect ourselves from the world at large when we're out and about… And those sunglasses? It's simple. Fashion always rolls in cycles and mini shades are the direct opposite of the super-sized sunglasses shapes that have ruled our accessory drawers for the past few years.
When you start to look, there are elements of The Matrix style fashion trend everywhere. See Gigi's oversized leather jacket (and tiny shades)…
Hailey in the sunglasses shape of 2023. Hers are Saint Laurent, as is the rest of her outfit…
Julia Fox is always one to work an out-there trend whether it's fashion or beauty-related.
Both Kendall and Kylie have understood the assignment, when it comes to visor-like eyewear…
Boots for stomping in are integral for catching the eye of the street style set (and keeping warm)…
Of course Rihanna gives her own iconic spin to the trend…
Even Margot Robbie has given the leather trench a try - albeit with a more chic than cyber twist.
If you want to add a little of The Matrix's signature style into your own wardrobe, we've found some of the best pieces to buy right now, starting with the outer layer. In this weather, your coat is likely to be your most-worn item, so we're being sensible.
Belted Crinkled Faux Patent-Leather Trench CoatFaux Leather Trench CoatEmily Belted Padded Faux Leather Trench CoatAnd because we always think practically when it comes to shopping, let's move on to footwear. We're big fans of chunky winter boots and happily, they are also a signature style for The Matrix's key characters, too. Perfect for pounding pavements or fighting cyber crime in alternate realities. You decide.
Wide Fit Alix Chunky Lace Up Ankle Boots In BlackTerra Buckled Leather Ankle BootsChunky Leather BootsIf you just want to take a baby step into the trend (or perhaps you're not fully on-board with the film's plotline and character arcs…) teeny tiny oblong sunglasses will still be everywhere this year. An accessory update is a great place to start with any trend, whether you decide to wear them with a leather trench coat or not.
Wrap Visor SunglassesRectangular Edge Cat Eye SunglassesLady Oval-Frame Acetate SunglassesAs for the rest of your look? Black leggings would be a fitting choice, although Karen Millen's leather cargo pants (WERE £375, NOW £303.20) prove a commitment to the cause, er, we mean trend, that we completely commend. Add a cross body bag to keep your hands free. Try ASOS's black nylon bum bag or COS's waitlist-worthy leather version both of which will let you practise any kung-fu moves you've recently mastered.
"Hmm, (outfit) upgrades?" How very 2023…
Read more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton here or follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton
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