70s Nightclub Fashion Makes a Revival: Shaggy Coats Have Become the Festive Essential Must-Have
While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique style impact remains strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and stoles favored by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the festive social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Data Reflects the Trend
Among the hottest items from a recent partnership between a major retailer and a designer brand is a short, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading department store, online queries for taupe fake fur coats have surged 190% compared to last year.
The demand for secondhand plush items is also rising, with queries for faux fur increasing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand platform.
"This is a statement coat," says a senior style expert, explaining that it acts as the central element of an ensemble.
The editor prefers to style her personal colossal furry version with hipster jeans or leggings and micro shorts.
Television Fashion Echoes the Look
This style is replicated in a new Netflix romcom series, where a character sports a caramel fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her daring outfit, the character replies, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic
The trend aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "boom boom."
Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, bubbly, smoking, high hemlines, loose morals and, of course, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that era, the trend is set against a uncertain financial climate.
Boom boom is very much about dressing for the lifestyle you dream of rather than the one you are stuck with.
Contemporary Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
While real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, today's iterations are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the meat industry—or synthetic fabrics like acrylic.
The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Endorsement and Exclusive Releases
A London creator was an early instigator of this trend. Her fluffy coats with curly proportions have been worn by famous singers.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, alongside animal and zebra-print options with exaggerated fuzzy trim.
"When you can only buy a single item, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a publication head.
The feeling is echoed by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who calls it "a surprising, fun touch" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
Final Spirit Booster
In the end, the fuzzy coat can serve as a fantastic mood lifter.
"It won't cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it will make you feel glamorous when everything else is rather gloomy."
