70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Comeback: Fuzzy Coats Are the Party Season's Must-Have
Although the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its unique style impact remains powerful.
This season, the spotlight isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and party enthusiasts as well.
With the holiday party season approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest collaboration between a major retailer and a designer brand is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At another retailer, searches for taupe fake fur coats have jumped 190% year on year.
The demand for secondhand plush finds is also rising, with queries for faux fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a popular secondhand platform.
"It's a one and done coat," notes a lead fashion editor, explaining that it serves as the main piece of an outfit.
The editor prefers to wear her own oversized furry coat with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.
Screen Style Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is replicated in a new streaming romantic comedy series, where a character sports a toffee-colored furry jacket to a casual dinner.
When questioned about her daring outfit, the sister replies, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe
The trend aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."
Inspired by the extravagance and excess of late-80s New York, this vibe brings to mind wealth, champagne, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.
Like that time, the trend is set against a volatile financial climate.
Boom boom is all about embodying the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you are stuck with.
Modern Fabrics and Playful Opulence
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, current iterations are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the meat industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.
The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek luxury—as if a famous Muppet has taken over with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Endorsement and Exclusive Releases
An English designer was an early instigator of this movement. Her fluffy coats with curly textures have been worn by top pop stars.
Because of high interest, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An upcoming release includes a pink and charcoal style similar to a giant pom-pom, as well as animal and zebra-print versions with dramatic fluffy frou-frou.
"If you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a publication head.
This sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a leading store, who calls it "a surprising, fun element" that avoids the need for a complete ensemble.
The Ultimate Spirit Booster
In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a fortune," notes the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glam when the world around you is pretty gloomy."