70s Nightclub Fashion Makes a Comeback: Shaggy Jackets Are the Party Season's Must-Have
Although the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
Currently, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and wraps favored by celebrities and club-goers as well.
With the holiday social calendar coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major comeback.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a latest collaboration between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another department store, online queries for taupe faux fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
The demand for secondhand plush items is also rising, with queries for faux fur increasing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand platform.
"It's a statement coat," notes a senior style expert, explaining that it acts as the main piece of an outfit.
She likes to style her own oversized shaggy version with hipster jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Screen Style Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is replicated in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a sister wears a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her daring look, the character responds, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
The trend aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "boom boom."
Rooted in the extravagance and excess of late-80s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, champagne, cigarettes, short skirts, loose morals and, naturally, fur.
Like that era, the trend is set against a uncertain financial climate.
Boom boom is very much about dressing for the life you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are mostly made from shearling—a byproduct of the meat industry—or synthetic fabrics like polyester.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek opulence—as if a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Limited Releases
An English designer was an early instigator of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly textures have been sported by famous singers.
Due to high interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fluffy trim.
"If you can only purchase one thing, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of boring pants, you want something dramatic," says a publication head.
The sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a major retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, fun element" that avoids the need for a complete outfit.
Final Spirit Lifter
In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic mood lifter.
"It won't cost a fortune," notes the editor, "and it will make you feel glamorous when everything else is pretty dreary."
