In the early 1960s, Hugh Hefner founded Playboy magazine, which was primarily known for its centerfold photos of nude women and risque articles about sexuality and entertainment. However, what people may not realize is that Playboy's influence extended beyond just its explicit content and into the world of fashion. In particular, many of the outfits worn by Playboy bunnies, who were featured prominently in the magazine, inspired a new trend in nightclub fashion. Many clubs began to hire their own bunnies, imitating their style and attitude, and this led to a wide range of new styles being adopted across the country. This had a significant impact on evening wear and party attire, introducing new materials and silhouettes that would go on to become popular in the mainstream.
The bunny costume, which became synonymous with Playboy Clubs, was one of the most iconic looks associated with the brand. It consisted of a corseted dress or top, high heels, white gloves, and a large bunny ears headpiece. The look was designed to be sexy and playful, but also elegant and sophisticated. As more women started working as bunnies at other clubs around the country, demand for similar clothing increased, leading to a boom in the sales of these items. Designers soon began creating their own versions of the bunny suit, using different fabrics and colors to create unique takes on the classic look.
In addition to the bunny suits, the Playboy Clubs also popularized other fashion trends. For example, they introduced the use of black velvet and satin fabric in clubwear, both of which were luxurious and glamorous materials. They also popularized short skirts and minidresses, which became very popular among clubgoers looking to show off their legs. Finally, they helped to introduce the use of leather, particularly in the form of leather jackets, which quickly became a staple of rock and roll culture.
Overall, the influence of Playboy on nightclub fashion cannot be overstated. From its bunny suits to its use of black velvet and leather, the magazine's impact can still be seen today in many aspects of evening wear and party attire. While not everyone may agree with all of Playboy's content, it's hard to deny that the brand played an important role in shaping the way we dress when going out.