70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Fuzzy Coats Are the Party Essential Key Piece
While the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its distinct style impact remains strong.
Currently, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, shaggy coats and stoles worn by style icons and club-goers alike.
With the holiday social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a significant comeback.
Retail Statistics Reflects the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest collaboration between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, off-white, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.
At another retailer, online queries for taupe faux fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
The demand for secondhand plush finds is also rising, with queries for synthetic fur growing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular resale website.
"This is a one and done coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it acts as the central element of an ensemble.
She prefers to wear her own oversized shaggy coat with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Screen Style Mirrors the Look
The aesthetic is replicated in a new Netflix romcom series, where a sister sports a caramel furry jacket to a casual dinner.
When questioned about her bold outfit, the sister responds, "It's what you said to look fancy. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
This look aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."
Inspired by the glamour and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wealth, champagne, cigarettes, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fur.
Similar to that time, 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 Materials and Playful Luxury
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, current versions are primarily made from lambskin—a byproduct of the food industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.
The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek luxury—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.
Celebrity Adoption and Exclusive Drops
A London creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been sported by famous singers.
Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in limited collections. An upcoming release includes a pink and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with dramatic fluffy frou-frou.
"When you can only buy one thing, you don't want it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring pants, you want something dramatic," says a publication editor-in-chief.
The feeling is echoed by a style head at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, fun touch" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
The Ultimate Mood Lifter
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a great pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a fortune," says the editor, "and it will make you feel glam when everything else is rather gloomy."
