70s Nightclub Style Makes a Revival: Fuzzy Coats Have Become the Festive Essential Key Piece
Although the iconic New York venue Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its distinct fashion influence continues strong.
This season, the spotlight isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, shaggy coats and wraps favored by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the festive social calendar approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major resurgence.
Shopping Statistics Shows the Trend
One of the hottest items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a London label is a cropped, off-white, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.
At another retailer, searches for taupe faux fur coats have surged almost 200% compared to last year.
Interest for secondhand plush items is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major resale platform.
"This is a one and done coat," says a lead fashion editor, adding that it acts as the main piece of an ensemble.
The editor likes to style her personal oversized furry version with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Television Fashion Mirrors the Look
This style is replicated in a new streaming romcom series, where a character wears a toffee-colored furry jacket to a informal dinner.
When questioned about her daring look, the sister responds, "It's what you said to look fancy. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic
The trend aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is calling "glam excess."
Inspired by the extravagance and excess of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wealth, champagne, smoking, short skirts, loose morals and, naturally, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during 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 Playful Opulence
While real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, current versions are primarily made from lambskin—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic fabrics like acrylic.
The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Exclusive Drops
An English designer was an early instigator of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been worn by famous pop stars.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An forthcoming release includes a pink and charcoal version akin to a large pom-pom, as well as animal and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fuzzy trim.
"If you can only purchase a single item, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a magazine editor-in-chief.
The feeling is echoed by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, fun element" that avoids the need for a whole new ensemble.
Final Mood Booster
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can serve as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It won't cost a lot," notes the expert, "and it will make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather dreary."