70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Comeback: Shaggy Coats Have Become the Festive Season's Key Piece
Although the legendary New York venue Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
Currently, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and stoles worn by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the holiday social calendar coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major comeback.
Retail Statistics Shows the Popularity
One of the most popular items from a latest partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, cream, long-haired jacket with giant lapels.
At another retailer, searches for taupe faux fur coats have jumped almost 200% year on year.
Interest for secondhand fuzzy items is also rising, with searches for synthetic fur increasing by over 250% in the past six months on a popular resale website.
"It's a statement coat," says a senior style expert, adding that it acts as the main piece of an outfit.
She likes to wear her own oversized furry version with hipster jeans or leggings and micro shorts.
Screen Fashion Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is showcased in a new streaming romantic comedy series, where a character wears a caramel fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her bold outfit, the sister replies, "It's what you said to dress up. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Glamorous" Vibe
The trend fits into what an American style analyst is calling "glam excess."
Inspired by the glamour and excess of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wealth, champagne, cigarettes, short skirts, loose morals and, of course, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that time, the trend is set against a volatile economy.
This style is very much about embodying the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
While real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, current versions are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek opulence—as if a beloved character has taken over with overblown proportions and unexpected colors.
Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Releases
An English designer was an early instigator of this trend. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like textures have been sported by famous singers.
Because of high demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming launch includes a rose and charcoal version akin to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print options with exaggerated fuzzy frou-frou.
"When you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," says a magazine editor-in-chief.
This sentiment is echoed by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who describes it "an unexpected, playful element" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.
The Ultimate Spirit Booster
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can act as a great pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a fortune," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather dreary."
