70s Nightclub Fashion Returns for a Comeback: Shaggy Jackets Are the Festive Season's Key Piece
Although the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
Currently, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, shaggy coats and wraps worn by style icons and club-goers as well.
With the festive social calendar coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Shopping Statistics Reflects the Trend
Among the hottest items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.
At a leading department store, online queries for taupe faux fur coats have jumped 190% year on year.
Interest for secondhand fuzzy finds is also rising, with searches for faux fur growing by over 250% in the last six months on a major resale website.
"It's a one and done coat," says a lead style expert, adding that it acts as the main piece of an outfit.
The editor prefers to wear her own oversized shaggy coat with low-rise jeans or leggings and micro shorts.
Screen Style Echoes the Look
The style is replicated in a new streaming romantic comedy series, where a sister wears a toffee-colored furry jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her bold look, the sister responds, "It's what you said to dress up. That's style!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
The trend fits into what a U.S. style analyst is terming "glam excess."
Inspired by the glamour and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, bubbly, cigarettes, short skirts, loose morals and, naturally, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that time, the trend is set against a uncertain economy.
This style is all about embodying the lifestyle you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Contemporary Fabrics and Playful Opulence
Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, current iterations are primarily made from shearling—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic fabrics like acrylic.
The trend represents a knowing luxury—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.
Celebrity Adoption and Limited Drops
A London designer was an pioneer of this movement. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been sported by top pop stars.
Due to strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming release includes a pink and grey style similar to a giant pom-pom, alongside leopard- and tiger-print options with exaggerated fuzzy trim.
"If you can only purchase one thing, you don't want it to be a plain sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want a standout piece," says a publication head.
This feeling is echoed by a style head at a leading store, who describes it "a surprising, fun touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.
Final Mood Lifter
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a lot," says the editor, "and it will make you feel glam when the world around you is pretty dreary."