70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Comeback: Shaggy Coats Are the Festive Essential Must-Have
While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique style impact continues powerful.
Currently, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and stoles favored by celebrities and club-goers as well.
With the festive party season approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major comeback.
Shopping Data Shows the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a London label is a cropped, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading department store, online queries for taupe fake fur coats have surged almost 200% compared to last year.
Interest for secondhand plush finds is also soaring, with searches for faux fur increasing by over 250% in the past six months on a major secondhand website.
"This is a statement coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it serves as the main piece of an ensemble.
The editor likes to wear her own oversized furry version with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.
Television Style Echoes the Trend
The style is replicated in a new streaming romantic comedy series, where a sister sports a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her daring look, the character replies, "It's what you said to dress up. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
This look aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is calling "boom boom."
Rooted in the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wealth, bubbly, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a uncertain economy.
Boom boom is very much about dressing for the life you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Fabrics and Playful Luxury
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are primarily made from shearling—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made fabrics like acrylic.
The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek luxury—as if a beloved character has taken charge with exaggerated proportions and unexpected colors.
Celebrity Adoption and Limited Drops
An English creator was an pioneer of this movement. Her fluffy coats with curly proportions have been worn by top pop stars.
Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An upcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal version similar to a large pom-pom, as well as animal and tiger-print versions with exaggerated fluffy frou-frou.
"When you can only buy one thing, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of ordinary pants, you want something dramatic," says a publication editor-in-chief.
The feeling is shared by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, playful touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.
The Ultimate Mood Booster
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a great pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a fortune," notes the editor, "and it will make you feel glamorous when everything else is rather dreary."
