The Matrix Lasting Impact on Fashion

A new generation of fashion is coming with the release of the Matrix 4 trailer. The Matrix changed the world in its 1999 release with its advanced special effects, editing, and most notably its iconic looks. 

From Trinity’s all-black leather ensemble to Neo’s long trench coat, and tiny black sunglasses, The Matrix has created an infinite amount of couple’s Halloween costumes. The Matrix look is very dystopian meet’s 90s punk rock. With its use of tiny accessories, sleek monochromatic colors, the franchise has and continues to influence fashion, even 22 years later. Just take a look back at the 2021 winter and spring trends that took over Instagram and Pinterest, like the ones seen below.

Image Courtesy: Pinterest

The first designer to release a collection heavily inspired by The Matrix was John Galliano's in his fall 1999 collection for Dior. His pieces consisted of leather and shaped-cuts in the silhouettes. Galliano stated how his looks were deeply inspired by the film. The film’s influence on runway fashion was also notable in the Alexander Wang’s fall 2018 runway looks, many of which continue to be staples in today’s streetwear. In a 2015 Academy Originals interview, The Matrix costume designer, Kym Barett, shared “I think that all costumes that kinda become synonymous with a particular movie have a long term resonance in the subconscious of people”. Barett’s use of sleek coordinating outfits gives off the futuristic look that is easily attainable for anyone to recreate. This all-black ensemble gives the character’s personality before getting to understand them. The pieces gave off that mystery and intimidation that goes hand in hand with their personalities. Watching the characters go in and out of the matrix and seeing how their coat’s effortlessly moved during their slow-motion fight sequences, you can really see how Barett focused on the structure of the pieces curated for each scene.

Image Courtesy: Vogue Runway

The film’s impact in the fashion world has become more prevalent within the past couple of years - going as far as inspiring the music world. An album in particular that gives off that Matrix-Esque feeling is Lady Gaga’s 2020 album “Chromatica”, where she is seen wearing a black leather leotard, knife-heel boots, and leg piece. Since the start of her career, Gaga has notoriously shown great interest in dressing and presenting herself in a very Camp way. Looking back at her music videos, whether it’s “ Bad Romance”, “‘Paparazzi’”, or most recently “911” you can see a lot of her style influence goes hand in hand with The Matrix. With her use of geometric shapes and love for metallic and leather, we can only hope she auditions for a potential 5th installment of the franchise with her jaw-dropping outfits. 

My favorite look from the franchise will always be Trinity’s black leather top and pants, the outfit is not only easy to recreate but is wearable. In a lot of movies, protagonists come out in amazing outfits.  However, they are most of the time incredibly hard to recreate on a budget or not wearable in everyday life. Trinity’s outfit is what I consider to be a timeless capsule piece, you can always find different ways to wear leather or a simple black bodysuit in any season, they can never go out of fashion.

The anticipation of what is next has already filled the air. The fourth movie installment’s trailer features Keanu Reeves and co-star Carrie-Anne Moss in a more casual take on their all-black ensemble, while newcomers Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Jessica Henwick are seen wearing different outfits. Abdul Mateen II wears an all mustard yellow suit while Henwick wears a high neck mesh top paired with a staple black blazer. With this new generation of Matrix characters comes a world of outfit inspirations for you to take on.  

Overall, the costume design in this new film seems to be right on the nose with The Matrix’s usual aesthetic.  However, we have to wait until the release to see all of the anticipated costumes! So, with a new era of The Matrix, don’t be afraid to try out some new pieces for your wardrobe! You will have lots of inspiration so, venture out and see how far the rabbit hole takes you in your next shopping spree. 

Image Courtesy: Vanity Fair

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Writer: Nataly Ariza

Editor: Alexandra Laguna

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