Y2K fashion continues to have a chokehold on the latest trends. Whether we’re talking about velour tracksuits, rosette adornments or baguette bags, inspiration from the early aughts can be seen everywhere. The latest accessory making a return this year? Bayonetta glasses, the small circular style of frames that we did not see coming back. We chatted with an expert to give us the lowdown on the popular trend and how we can potentially rock it in 2024.
Bayonetta Glasses Are Back and We Have Some Thoughts
Paging Miranda Priestly
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Published Feb 2, 2024
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Meet the Expert
- Annabelle Gonzalez is the owner and CEO of Giant Vintage, an accessory brand known for its retro eyewear. According to the brand site, Gonzalez has always had a knack for vintage fashion and trends. In high school, she started styling for red carpets, music videos and editorial photoshoots. By 2020, she launched her own brand, which quickly grew a celebrity fanbase that includes Paris Hilton, Reneé Rapp, Hailey Bieber and Margot Robbie, who have all been spotted wearing a pair of her glasses.
What Are Bayonetta Glasses?
Bayonetta glasses have thin, oval or rectangular frames and clear lenses that give off a sleeker look than the traditional cat eye or round designs. The name itself comes from a popular 2009 Japanese video game character, Bayonetta, who was known for rocking similar glasses while summoning demons and attacking her enemies.
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Why Are Bayonetta Glasses So Popular Now?
Aside from having a badass character behind it, this throwback design is regaining popularity “because of the style influence it had in the late ‘90s and early 2000s,” says Gonzales. “And trends always come back around.” The tiny glasses were a staple accessory for stars like Megan Fox, Lucy Liu and Angelina Jolie during the early aughts, and we can’t forget when supermodel Gisele Bündchen rocked a pair in The Devil Wears Prada (even though it was a short cameo).
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A decade later, Bayonetta glasses are back and bigger than ever (metaphorically, of course). As Gonzalez explains, “In 2024, we are focusing on being sexier, more confident and looking sleeker. No eyewear choice embodies those words better than the Bayonetta style.” We first spotted it on Bella Hadid back in 2022 before seeing supermodels wearing a version of the glasses at the Miu Miu Fall 2023 runway show. Since then, K-Pop stars like Hyein and BIBI, influencers (Emma Chamberlain, Julia Fox, Gabbriette) and celebs (Reneé Rapp, Doja Cat, SZA) have also hopped onto the trend. TikTok also got its hands on the craze, including the slim specs in many of the trending fashion aesthetics the platform is known for—from the ‘office siren’ to ‘librariancore’ to ‘geek chic.’
How to Wear Bayonetta Glasses in 2024
If your first question is, can I really pull them off? Yes, you can. TikTok even created a filter so you can see what Bayonetta glasses might look like on you, if you’re curious. And there’s always the option of testing the look out in stores (or getting a few pairs shipped straight to your home). Here are some ways you can wear Bayonetta glasses in the new year.
- Think about your personal style. There are a variety of styles out there. (As Gonzalez notes, “The smaller, the cuter!”). Do you want a circular or rectangular rim? Are you into a solid colored frame or do you want to try a specific print like tortoiseshell? These key features will help simplify your choices.
- Consider your face shape. Your face shape can play a role in how well your glasses suit your features. For example, if you have a heart-shaped face, consider a rounder frame to blend with your bone structure. On the other hand, if you have a diamond-shaped face, reach for rectangular glasses that complement your jawline. (Don’t know your face shape? We have a four-step guide to help you figure it out.)
- Add it to your ‘professional’ attire. “One of the most attractive features of Bayonetta glasses is the fact that you're getting an iconic staple piece to add to your wardrobe that’s also very practical for everyday wear!” shares Gonzalez. “Try pairing them with any everyday outfit. They will always WERK! I personally love pairing my Bayonetta eyewear with my office attire.” As we previously mentioned, office wear is in for the new year, so add some new glasses to your turtleneck sweater, pencil skirt and ballet flats.
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