Studio 54 Fashion Returns for a Comeback: Shaggy Jackets Are the Party Essential Must-Have
Although the iconic New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues strong.
Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and stoles worn by style icons and party enthusiasts alike.
With the holiday social calendar coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is experiencing a significant comeback.
Shopping Data Shows the Popularity
Among the hottest items from a latest collaboration between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, off-white, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.
At another retailer, searches for brown fake fur coats have surged almost 200% compared to last year.
The demand for pre-owned fuzzy finds is also soaring, with queries for faux fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major secondhand platform.
"It's a one and done coat," notes a lead fashion editor, explaining that it acts as the main element of an ensemble.
She likes to wear her own oversized shaggy coat with hipster jeans or leggings and short shorts.
Screen Style Echoes the Look
The style is showcased in a latest streaming romantic comedy series, where a sister wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.
When challenged about her bold outfit, the sister replies, "You told us to dress up. That's style!"
The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe
This look aligns with what an American trend forecaster is calling "boom boom."
Inspired by the extravagance and excess of late-80s New York, this vibe brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, cigarettes, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.
Like that time, the trend is set against a uncertain financial climate.
Boom boom is all about embodying the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you are stuck with.
Contemporary Materials and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence
While real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's heyday, current versions are primarily made from lambskin—a byproduct of the meat industry—or synthetic fabrics like polyester.
The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.
Star Adoption and Limited Releases
An English designer was an early instigator of this movement. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like textures have been sported by famous pop stars.
Due to strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal style similar to a giant pom-pom, alongside leopard- and zebra-print options with dramatic fluffy frou-frou.
"If you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want a standout piece," says a magazine editor-in-chief.
This sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a leading store, who describes it "an unexpected, playful touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.
The Ultimate Mood Booster
Ultimately, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.
"It doesn't have to cost a fortune," notes the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glamorous when the world around you is pretty dreary."