When The Matrix premiered in cinemas in 1999, moviegoers were treated to out-of-this-world action sequences, exceptional cinematography and Neo’s wardrobe.

Kids of the 90s, if you know, you know. That black leather coat, his slicked-back hair and tinted sunglasses. It will forever be branded into pop culture as a pivotal moment for fashion.

Before Neo’s style takes, black leather conjured images of burly bikers and members of The Village People. But sexy? That description was never in our vocabulary until The Matrix, that is.

Decades later, leather has taken on the dominant role in many winter wardrobes, albeit more sustainably. Let’s not forget that sustainable leather costs a fraction of the price of real leather. Sadly, many women avoid leather clothing because they don’t know how to style it. 

Fear not, we’re here to show you how to transition faux leather from the catwalk to the streets with just a few key pieces.

Vegan/Faux Leather Trousers

Anna Hatherway’s effortless style transcends generations and trends. It’s no wonder she’s every woman’s imaginary bestie.

Hathaway is the epitome of wearing women’s designer clothes and not letting the clothes wear her. Last week the actress stepped out in slingback kitten heels, a pinstripe shirt and leather trousers. 

Woman&Home called it the “perfect casual-chic outfit” inspiration. And that’s exactly what it was. Her outfit looked like it was thrown together in a moment’s haste but we all know Miss Hathaway is a trendsetter and not one to follow the crowd.

This season, fashion houses are catering for different body and style types. Finally, someone got the memo on body positivity and diversity! 

Like Hathaway, if you want a simple yet elegant style, wide-leg faux leather trousers are it. The versatility of the cut makes them perfect for wearing day and night.

Prefer a more contemporary fit? Brochu Walker suggests the ease of a denim straight-leg-meets-boyfriend style. It oozes quiet luxury.

Trench Coat

Never underestimate the power of a gorgeous trench coat. Even better if it’s faux leather. Neo may have enamored us with sexy leather but Trinity sold us on the idea.

InStyle writer Megan Schaltegger says she disliked the idea of faux leather until she came across a faux leather trench coat that looked and fitted like the real deal.

Warm to the touch, the buttery-soft fabric can make the staunchest of critics change their minds. A sophisticated take on the classic moto coat, a trench is a timeless transitional piece that can be worn in fall and winter.

Style it with jeans and a T-shirt for a casual look. If you want to go ultra-glam, pair it with wide-leg trousers, a crisp white shirt and ankle boots. InStyle advises keeping your palette simple with pops of color.

Pencil Skirt

Nothing says “office siren” more than a fitted faux leather pencil skirt. The cut accentuates the curves and hugs your body in all the right places.

HELLO! calls the leather skirt a must-have staple for every winter wardrobe and we couldn’t agree more. Victoria Beckham and Olivia Palermo are some celebrities donning the popular style.

Does the thought of showing off your curves induce anxiety? A flared, midi-length skirt is the way to go. Wear it with knee-high boots and a statement blouse or knitted jumper.

Meghan Markle’s iconic 2018 green-on-green outfit remains a winner. Looking effortlessly cool, she centered her outfit around a bottle green midi leather skirt and complemented it with dainty nude heels. Chef’s kiss!

Mini Dress

Kylie Jenner looked hot to trot when she recently fronted a faux leather fashion campaign. Wearing a black faux leather mini dress, the make-up mogul embraced her inner vamp and was a fun yet sexy take on the LBD.

Invest in a faux leather mini dress with a cinched-in waist and deep V-neck for a sultry night on the town. Complete the outfit with ankle boots or strappy sandals. 

Headed to a more casual occasion? Throw on a cozy cardigan, denim jacket and sneakers.

If you’re daunted by the prospect of stepping out in leather, don’t be. The key is that less is always more when it comes to faux leather. 

Choose one leather piece and plan the rest of your outfit around it. Add color with bold and gold accessories. 

Don’t be scared to experiment. Rules are meant to be broken. Fashion is supposed to be fun and an extension of your personality. It allows you to access your inner goddess. 

When you’re clothes shopping, explore the design side of fashion. Invest in clothing that makes you feel comfortable and happy in your skin.