70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Comeback: Fuzzy Jackets Are the Festive Essential Key Piece
Although the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
This season, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and stoles favored by style icons and club-goers as well.
With the festive party season approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Statistics Shows the Trend
Among the most popular items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a London label is a short, cream, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.
At another department store, online queries for brown faux fur coats have jumped almost 200% compared to last year.
Interest for secondhand plush items is also soaring, with queries for faux fur growing by 257% in the last six months on a popular resale website.
"It's a one and done coat," says a senior style expert, explaining that it serves as the central piece of an outfit.
She prefers to wear her personal colossal furry version with low-rise jeans or tights and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Echoes the Look
This aesthetic is showcased in a new streaming romcom series, where a character sports 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 "Glamorous" Vibe
This look aligns with what a U.S. style analyst is terming "glam excess."
Inspired by the glamour and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is set against a volatile economy.
This style is very much about dressing for the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Materials and Playful Luxury
While animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are mostly made from shearling—a byproduct of the food industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek luxury—as if a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Exclusive Drops
An English creator was an early instigator of this movement. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like textures have been sported by top singers.
Due to high demand, these coats are now only sold in limited collections. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal style similar to a giant pom-pom, alongside leopard- and tiger-print versions with dramatic fuzzy frou-frou.
"If you can only buy a single item, you don't want it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want a standout piece," says a magazine head.
The sentiment is echoed by a fashion director at a leading store, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
Final Mood Booster
In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a great mood lifter.
"It doesn't have to cost a fortune," says the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glam when the world around you is rather gloomy."