70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Shaggy Coats Are the Party Season's Key Piece
Although the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique style impact remains strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and stoles worn by style icons and club-goers alike.
With the holiday party season approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Reflects the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a latest collaboration between a major retailer and a designer brand is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.
At another retailer, online queries for brown fake fur coats have surged almost 200% year on year.
Interest for pre-owned plush finds is also rising, with searches for faux fur increasing by 257% in the last six months on a major secondhand website.
"This is a statement coat," notes a lead fashion editor, adding that it acts as the central piece of an ensemble.
She prefers to wear her own colossal shaggy coat with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Television Style Mirrors the Look
The aesthetic is showcased in a latest Netflix romcom series, where a character wears a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her bold look, the sister replies, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
This look aligns with what an American trend forecaster is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wealth, bubbly, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that time, the trend is set against a volatile financial climate.
This style is all about embodying the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Contemporary Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
While real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, today's iterations are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the food industry—or synthetic materials like acrylic.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek luxury—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated proportions and surprising colors.
Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Drops
An English designer was an pioneer of this movement. Her fluffy coats with curly textures have been worn by top pop stars.
Due to high interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An forthcoming launch includes a rose and charcoal style similar to a giant pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fluffy trim.
"When you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring pants, you want something dramatic," says a publication head.
This feeling is shared by a fashion director at a leading store, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.
Final Spirit Lifter
In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic mood lifter.
"It won't cost a fortune," says the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glam when everything else is rather dreary."