70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Fuzzy Jackets Have Become the Party Essential Must-Have
While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
This season, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and stoles worn by style icons and club-goers as well.
With the festive social calendar approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Trend
One of the hottest items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading department store, searches for taupe faux fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
The demand for pre-owned fuzzy finds is also soaring, with searches for synthetic fur increasing by 257% in the past six months on a popular resale platform.
"This is a one and done coat," notes a senior fashion editor, adding that it serves as the main element of an outfit.
The editor likes to style her own colossal shaggy version with hipster jeans or leggings and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Echoes the Look
This style is replicated in a new streaming romcom series, where a sister sports a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her daring outfit, the character responds, "You told us to dress up. That's style!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
This look fits into what an American style analyst is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wealth, champagne, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.
Similar to that era, the trend is emerging during a volatile financial climate.
Boom boom is very much about dressing for the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Materials and Playful Opulence
While animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, current versions are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the food industry—or man-made materials like polyester.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek luxury—as if a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated proportions and surprising hues.
Star Endorsement and Limited Releases
A London creator was an early instigator of this trend. Her fluffy coats with curly textures have been sported by top singers.
Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming launch includes a rose and grey version similar to a large pom-pom, as well as animal and zebra-print options with dramatic fuzzy frou-frou.
"If you can only purchase one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want a standout piece," says a magazine editor-in-chief.
This sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a major store, who describes it "an unexpected, fun element" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
The Ultimate Mood Booster
In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a lot," says the editor, "and it's going to make you feel glam when everything else is rather dreary."
