Studio 54 Style Makes a Revival: Shaggy Jackets Are the Festive Season's Key Piece
Although the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its distinct style impact remains strong.
This season, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the furry, shaggy coats and stoles worn by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.
With the holiday party season coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.
Shopping Data Shows the Trend
Among the most popular items from a recent collaboration between a high-street brand and a London label is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.
At another department store, online queries for brown fake fur coats have surged almost 200% compared to last year.
Interest for secondhand fuzzy finds is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur increasing by 257% in the last six months on a major resale website.
"It's a statement coat," notes a lead fashion editor, adding that it serves as the main element of an outfit.
The editor likes to style her own oversized shaggy version with low-rise jeans or tights and micro shorts.
Television Style Echoes the Trend
This aesthetic is replicated in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a sister sports a caramel furry jacket to a informal dinner.
When challenged about her daring look, the character responds, "It's what you said to dress up. That's style!"
Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe
The trend fits into what a U.S. trend forecaster is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the glamour and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wealth, champagne, cigarettes, high hemlines, loose morals and, of course, fur.
Like that time, the trend is emerging during a volatile economy.
Boom boom is very much about embodying the life you aspire to rather than the one you are stuck with.
Contemporary Materials and Playful Luxury
Whereas animal fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, current versions are mostly made from lambskin—a secondary product of the meat industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.
The trend represents a knowing opulence—as if a famous Muppet has taken charge with exaggerated proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Limited Releases
An English creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her fluffy coats with curly textures have been sported by famous singers.
Because of high interest, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An forthcoming release includes a rose and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, alongside animal and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fluffy trim.
"If you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic jumper or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a magazine head.
This feeling is shared by a style head at a major store, who describes it "an unexpected, playful touch" that doesn't require a complete outfit.
Final Mood Lifter
Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a great pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a fortune," says the editor, "and it will make you feel glam when everything else is rather gloomy."