Studio 54 Fashion Makes a Comeback: Fuzzy Coats Are the Festive Essential Must-Have
While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its distinct style impact continues powerful.
Currently, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and club-goers alike.
With the holiday social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Statistics Shows the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a London label is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading department store, searches for taupe fake fur coats have jumped 190% year on year.
Interest for secondhand plush finds 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," notes a senior fashion editor, explaining that it serves as the main element of an ensemble.
She likes to style her own colossal furry version with hipster jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Television Style Echoes the Look
This aesthetic is showcased in a new streaming romantic comedy series, where a character wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her daring look, the character replies, "It's what you said to dress up. It's fashion!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
The trend fits into what an American style analyst is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the extravagance and excess of late-80s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, loose morals and, naturally, fur.
Similar to that time, the trend is set against a volatile economy.
Boom boom is all about dressing for the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Materials and Playful Opulence
Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, today's iterations are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the meat industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.
The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with overblown silhouettes and surprising colors.
Star Endorsement and Exclusive Drops
A London creator was an early instigator of this movement. Her shaggy coats with poodle-like textures have been worn by top singers.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in limited collections. An upcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal style akin to a giant pom-pom, as well as animal and zebra-print options with exaggerated fluffy frou-frou.
"If you can only buy one thing, you don't want it to be a plain jumper or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want something dramatic," says a magazine editor-in-chief.
The feeling is echoed by a style head at a major store, who calls it "an unexpected, fun element" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.
The Ultimate Spirit Lifter
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can act as a great pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a lot," says the editor, "and it will make you feel glam when everything else is rather gloomy."