70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Fuzzy Jackets Are the Festive Season's Key Piece
While the legendary New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and wraps worn by style icons and club-goers as well.
With the holiday social calendar coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Shopping Statistics Reflects the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest partnership between a high-street brand and a London label is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading retailer, searches for taupe fake fur coats have jumped almost 200% compared to last year.
The demand for pre-owned fuzzy items is also rising, with queries for synthetic fur growing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular resale platform.
"It's a statement coat," notes a lead fashion editor, adding that it serves as the central piece of an ensemble.
She prefers to wear her personal oversized furry coat with low-rise jeans or tights and short shorts.
Screen Fashion Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is showcased in a latest streaming romantic comedy series, where a character sports a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her daring outfit, the character replies, "You told us to look fancy. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
The trend aligns with what an American trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."
Rooted in the glamour and opulence of late-80s New York, this vibe brings to mind wealth, bubbly, cigarettes, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, of course, fuzzy textures.
Like that time, the trend is set against a uncertain economy.
Boom boom is very much about dressing for the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Contemporary Materials and Playful Luxury
Whereas real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.
The trend embodies a knowing luxury—as if a beloved character has taken over with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Endorsement and Limited Drops
A London creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her fluffy coats with curly proportions have been worn by top pop stars.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming release includes a pink and grey style similar to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and tiger-print versions with dramatic fluffy trim.
"If you can only buy a single item, you don't want it to be a basic jumper or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want a standout piece," says a magazine editor-in-chief.
This sentiment is shared by a style head at a major retailer, who calls it "a surprising, playful touch" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
Final Mood Lifter
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can serve as a fantastic mood lifter.
"It won't cost a lot," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glam when everything else is rather gloomy."