70s Nightclub Fashion Makes a Revival: Shaggy Jackets Have Become the Festive Season's Must-Have
While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence remains strong.
Currently, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and club-goers alike.
With the holiday party season approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a significant resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a latest partnership between a high-street brand and a London label is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another retailer, searches for brown faux fur coats have surged almost 200% year on year.
The demand for secondhand fuzzy items is also soaring, with queries for faux fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major secondhand platform.
"This is a one and done coat," notes a senior fashion editor, adding that it serves as the main element of an ensemble.
She likes to style her personal colossal shaggy version with hipster jeans or tights and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Echoes the Look
This style is replicated in a new streaming romcom series, where a character sports a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her daring look, the character responds, "You told us to look fancy. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
The trend aligns with what a U.S. style analyst is calling "boom boom."
Rooted in the glamour and excess of the 1980s New York, this vibe brings to mind wads of cash, bubbly, cigarettes, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a uncertain financial climate.
Boom boom is all about dressing for the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Contemporary Materials and Playful Opulence
Whereas real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, current iterations are primarily made from shearling—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made materials like polyester.
The trend represents a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with overblown silhouettes and surprising colors.
Star Endorsement and Limited Drops
An English creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly textures have been worn by famous singers.
Because of high interest, these coats are now only sold in limited collections. An upcoming launch includes a rose and charcoal version akin to a giant pom-pom, as well as leopard- and tiger-print options with dramatic fuzzy trim.
"When you can only purchase a single item, you don't want it to be a plain sweater or a pair of boring pants, you want a standout piece," says a publication head.
This feeling is echoed by a style head at a leading store, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that avoids the need for a complete ensemble.
Final Mood Booster
In the end, the shaggy coat can serve as a great pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it will make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather dreary."
