70s Nightclub Style Makes a Comeback: Fuzzy Jackets Have Become the Party Season's Must-Have
While the legendary New York venue Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and stoles worn by celebrities and party enthusiasts as well.
With the festive social calendar coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant resurgence.
Shopping Data Shows the Popularity
Among the most popular items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a London label is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another department store, online queries for brown faux fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
Interest for pre-owned plush items is also soaring, with searches for synthetic fur increasing by over 250% in the past six months on a popular resale platform.
"This is a one and done coat," notes a lead style expert, explaining that it serves as the central element of an ensemble.
The editor prefers to wear her personal oversized shaggy version with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.
Screen Style Echoes the Look
This aesthetic is replicated in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a character sports a caramel furry jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her daring look, the sister responds, "It's what you said to look fancy. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
The trend aligns with what a U.S. style analyst is terming "boom boom."
Rooted in the glamour and excess of the 1980s New York, this vibe evokes wads of cash, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a volatile financial climate.
This style is very much about dressing for the life you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Fabrics and Playful Opulence
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, today's versions are mostly made from shearling—a byproduct of the meat industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.
The trend embodies a knowing luxury—as if a beloved character has taken charge with overblown silhouettes and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Limited Releases
An English designer was an early instigator of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been worn by top pop stars.
Due to high demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming release includes a pink and grey style akin to a large pom-pom, alongside leopard- and tiger-print versions with dramatic fluffy frou-frou.
"When you can only purchase one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic sweater or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," says a publication head.
This feeling is shared by a style head at a leading store, who describes it "an unexpected, playful touch" that doesn't require a whole new outfit.
The Ultimate Spirit Booster
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can serve as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it's going to make you feel glam when everything else is pretty dreary."
