70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Shaggy Jackets Have Become the Festive Essential Key Piece
While the iconic New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its unique style impact remains strong.
This season, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and club-goers as well.
With the festive social calendar coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Statistics Reflects the Popularity
One of the most popular items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another department store, searches for taupe fake fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
Interest for pre-owned plush items is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur increasing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand platform.
"This is a statement coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it serves as the main piece of an outfit.
She prefers to wear her own colossal furry coat with low-rise jeans or tights and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Echoes the Look
The style is showcased in a new streaming romcom series, where a character wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her bold outfit, the character responds, "It's what you said to dress up. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
This look fits into what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "boom boom."
Rooted in the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, bubbly, cigarettes, short skirts, loose morals and, of course, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a volatile economy.
Boom boom is very much about embodying the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Contemporary Materials and Playful Luxury
Whereas real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, current iterations are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the food industry—or man-made materials like acrylic.
The trend embodies a knowing luxury—as if a famous Muppet has taken charge with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Endorsement and Limited Drops
A London creator was an pioneer of this movement. Her shaggy coats with poodle-like proportions have been sported by top pop stars.
Due to high interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming launch includes a rose and grey version similar to a giant pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with dramatic fuzzy trim.
"If you can only purchase a single item, you don't want it to be a plain sweater or a pair of ordinary pants, you want something dramatic," says a magazine head.
This sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that doesn't require a whole new outfit.
The Ultimate Spirit Booster
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a great mood lifter.
"It won't cost a lot," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glam when the world around you is pretty gloomy."
