70s Nightclub Style Makes a Comeback: Shaggy Jackets Have Become the Party Season's Key Piece
Although the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its unique style impact continues strong.
This season, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by style icons and party enthusiasts alike.
With the holiday party season coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, cream, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another retailer, online queries for taupe fake fur coats have surged almost 200% year on year.
Interest for secondhand fuzzy finds is also soaring, with searches for faux fur increasing by 257% in the last six months on a popular resale platform.
"This is a statement coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it serves as the main element of an ensemble.
The editor prefers to wear her own colossal furry coat with hipster jeans or tights and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is showcased in a new streaming romcom series, where a character sports a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When questioned about her daring outfit, the sister responds, "You told us to look fancy. That's style!"
Emergence of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic
This look fits into what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "boom boom."
Inspired by the glamour and excess of late-80s New York, this vibe evokes wealth, bubbly, smoking, short skirts, loose morals and, of course, fur.
Similar to that era, the trend is emerging during a uncertain economy.
This style is all about embodying the life you dream of rather than the one you are stuck with.
Modern Materials and Playful Luxury
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, today's versions are mostly made from lambskin—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made materials like polyester.
The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with overblown proportions and surprising colors.
Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Releases
A London creator was an early instigator of this movement. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been sported by famous pop stars.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming launch includes a rose and grey style similar to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and tiger-print options with exaggerated fluffy trim.
"If you can only buy a single item, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic jumper or a pair of ordinary pants, you want something dramatic," says a magazine head.
The sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a major store, who calls it "an unexpected, playful element" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.
The Ultimate Spirit Booster
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a fortune," says the editor, "and it will make you feel glamorous when the world around you is pretty gloomy."
