70s Nightclub Fashion Makes a Comeback: Shaggy Coats Are the Party Season's Must-Have
Although the iconic New York venue Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and stoles worn by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the festive social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major resurgence.
Retail Statistics Reflects the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a recent collaboration between a major retailer and a designer brand is a short, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading retailer, searches for brown fake fur coats have jumped 190% compared to last year.
Interest for secondhand plush items is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major secondhand platform.
"It's a one and done coat," says a senior fashion editor, adding that it acts as the main element of an ensemble.
She prefers to wear her own colossal shaggy coat with hipster jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Screen Style Echoes the Trend
This style is replicated in a latest streaming romcom series, where a character wears a caramel furry jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her bold outfit, the sister responds, "You told us to look fancy. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
This look fits into what a U.S. style analyst is terming "glam excess."
Rooted in the glamour and opulence of the 1980s New York, this vibe brings to mind wealth, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a volatile economy.
This style is very much about embodying the life you dream of rather than the one you are stuck with.
Contemporary Materials and Playful Opulence
Whereas real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, current iterations are primarily made from lambskin—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic fabrics like acrylic.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek opulence—as if a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.
Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Releases
A London designer was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly textures have been sported by famous singers.
Because of high demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming release includes a rose and charcoal style similar to a large pom-pom, as well as animal and tiger-print versions with dramatic fluffy trim.
"If you can only purchase a single item, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of boring trousers, you want a standout piece," says a magazine head.
This feeling is shared by a style head at a leading store, who calls it "a surprising, fun touch" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.
Final Mood Booster
In the end, the fuzzy coat can serve as a great mood lifter.
"It won't cost a lot," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather dreary."