70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Revival: Fuzzy Jackets Are the Party Essential Must-Have
Although the legendary New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.
This season, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps favored by style icons and club-goers as well.
With the holiday social calendar coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Data Reflects the Popularity
One of the most popular items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At another department store, searches for taupe fake fur coats have jumped almost 200% year on year.
Interest for secondhand plush items is also rising, with searches for synthetic fur growing by over 250% in the past six months on a major resale platform.
"It's a one and done coat," notes a lead fashion editor, adding that it serves as the central piece of an outfit.
The editor likes to style her personal colossal furry coat with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.
Screen Style Mirrors the Trend
This aesthetic is replicated in a new Netflix romcom series, where a character wears a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her daring outfit, the sister replies, "It's what you said to dress up. That's style!"
The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe
The trend aligns with what a U.S. style analyst is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the glamour and excess of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that era, the trend is set against a volatile financial climate.
This style is all about embodying the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
Whereas real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, current versions are mostly made from lambskin—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.
The trend represents a tongue-in-cheek opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected colors.
Celebrity Endorsement and Limited Drops
An English creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly textures have been worn by famous singers.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An upcoming release includes a rose and charcoal version similar to a giant pom-pom, alongside animal and tiger-print options with exaggerated fuzzy trim.
"When you can only purchase one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a publication editor-in-chief.
This feeling is shared by a style head at a leading store, who calls it "an unexpected, playful touch" that avoids the need for a complete ensemble.
Final Mood Lifter
In the end, the fuzzy coat can act as a fantastic mood lifter.
"It doesn't have to cost a lot," notes the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather gloomy."