Fashion

The 'Matrix'-inspired eyewear to skulk around in this winter

By Ciara Sheppard
Matrix Jessica Henwick

Photo: Elliot James Kennedy

In anticipation of the release of Matrix Revolutions, you can't reflect on the movie franchise without talking about its most iconic fashion export: the eyewear

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Slim fit sunglasses have become synonymous with the sci-fi franchise and despite Neo's frames actually being decidedly rounded in the movies, the term 'Matrix sunglasses' has become a catch-all for anything slim in shape, with silhouettes ranging from sharp and rectangular to cat eye.

Though Matrix-style sunglasses have been popular for a few years, having proved a huge hit on the autumn/winter 2019 catwalks and spotted in the street style looks of Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, they're still going strong with more boxy and wraparound variations taking over.

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We're also seeing people opting for more cheery tinted lenses as a nod to the Y2K resurgence (note: you don't have to go for moody Matrix black to get in on the trend).

Here are our favourite Matrix-inspired sunglasses to battle the winter sun in:

1

Gigi Hadid for Vogue Eyewear

Vo5257s Sunglasses

Gigi Hadid for Vogue Eyewear

These Gigi Hadid for Vogue Eyewear wraparound sunglasses offer a more futuristic take on the trend. Wear with your favourite ski suit for a chic slopes look.

2

Le Specs

Outta Love Oval-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

Le Specs Matrix glasses

For a more literal take, these Le Specs oval-frame sunglasses are the most similar to Neo's you'll find. The slim shape compliments most faces while not hiding features. Plus, Bella Hadid is a huge fan, having been spotted in the Outta Love model in various colours.

3

Balenciaga

Cat-Eye Silver-Tone Sunglasses

Balenciaga matrix glasses

No specs offer up sci-fi futurism quite like Balenciaga's. This silver-tone pair in a subtle cat eye shape are bold, so pair with blue jeans, a soft cable knit and fitted leather jacket to soften your look.

4

Balenciaga

Cat-Eye Acetate Sunglasses

Balenciaga

Leave no question as to which trend you're tapping into with Balenciaga's caricature-like offering. The exaggerated and warped cat-eye silhouette make for a fashion statement in itself, so keep your hair and outfit sleek as not to distract.

5

Valentino

Rectangular Acetate Frame Roman Stud316

Valentino sunglasses

We adore these rectangular shaped sunglasses via Valentino. They come with a bold rim and gold Roman studs on the arms making them a failsafe option for winter chicness. Also be sure to check out the ivory and brown colourway for a softer variation you can take into spring.

6

The Attico

X Linda Farrow Mini Marfa Rectangle Sunglasses

Tortoise sunglasses

Part of Attico's collaboration with Linda Farrow, this retro-inspired take on the trend comes in tortoiseshell acetate with a slim, rectangular silhouette.

7

Alain Mikli

Alain Mikli x Alexandre Vauthier A05039 Edwidge Rectangle Frame Sunglasses

Sunglasses

This pair from the Alain Mikli x Alexandre Vauthier collection are the definition of slim fit. The narrow rectangular shape with chunky folding arms make for a strong look, so go all in with a boxy leather jacket.

8

Balenciaga

Reverse Cat-Eye Silver-Tone Sunglasses

Balenciaga sunglasses

Go playful in Balenciaga's lavender-hued sunglasses. The colourful lenses will give your look a bouncy spring edge while the cat eye shape is giving us major Trinity vibes. Also be sure to note the distinctive 'upside down' arms.