Studio 54 Style Returns for a Revival: Shaggy Jackets Have Become the Party Season's Must-Have
Although the iconic New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its distinct fashion influence continues strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and wraps worn by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the holiday social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Retail Statistics Shows the Trend
One of the hottest items from a latest collaboration between a high-street brand and a London label is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At a leading department store, online queries for brown fake fur coats have surged 190% year on year.
The demand for pre-owned plush finds is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur increasing by 257% in the past six months on a major secondhand website.
"It's a one and done coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it serves as the central piece of an outfit.
The editor prefers to style her personal colossal furry coat with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.
Television Style Mirrors the Trend
The aesthetic is replicated in a latest streaming romcom series, where a sister sports a caramel furry jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her bold look, the sister responds, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"
The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic
The trend fits into what a U.S. style analyst is terming "glam excess."
Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wealth, bubbly, cigarettes, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, of course, fuzzy textures.
Similar to that era, the trend is emerging during a volatile financial climate.
This style is very much about dressing for the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.
Modern Materials and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
Whereas real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are primarily made from lambskin—a byproduct of the food industry—or man-made fabrics like acrylic.
The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected colors.
Star Adoption and Exclusive Releases
An English creator was an early instigator of this trend. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like proportions have been sported by top singers.
Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming launch includes a pink and grey version similar to a large pom-pom, alongside leopard- and zebra-print options with exaggerated fuzzy frou-frou.
"When you can only purchase a single item, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want a standout piece," explains a publication editor-in-chief.
The feeling is shared by a style head at a leading store, who calls it "an unexpected, fun touch" that doesn't require a complete ensemble.
The Ultimate Spirit Lifter
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can serve as a great mood lifter.
"It doesn't have to cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it's going to make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather gloomy."