70s Nightclub Style Returns for a Revival: Shaggy Coats Are the Festive Essential Must-Have

Although the iconic New York venue Studio 54 closed nearly four decades ago, its distinct fashion influence remains strong.

This season, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the furry, shaggy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and party enthusiasts as well.

With the festive social calendar coming up, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major comeback.

Shopping Data Reflects the Popularity

Among the hottest items from a recent partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.

At another retailer, online queries for brown faux fur coats have surged 190% compared to last year.

The demand for pre-owned plush items is also rising, with queries for synthetic fur increasing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand platform.

"This is a one and done coat," says a senior style expert, explaining that it acts as the main piece of an outfit.

The editor prefers to wear her own colossal shaggy coat with hipster jeans or tights and short shorts.

Screen Fashion Mirrors the Trend

The style is replicated in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a sister sports a caramel fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.

When questioned about her bold look, the sister responds, "It's what you said to look fancy. That's style!"

Emergence of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic

The trend fits into what a U.S. trend forecaster is calling "glam excess."

Rooted in 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.

Like that time, the trend is emerging during a uncertain financial climate.

Boom boom is very much about embodying the lifestyle you dream of rather than the one you are stuck with.

Modern Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence

While real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, current iterations are mostly made from lambskin—a byproduct of the meat industry—or synthetic fabrics like acrylic.

The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.

Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Releases

A London creator was an pioneer of this trend. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like proportions have been worn by famous pop stars.

Because of high interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming release includes a pink and charcoal style similar to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and tiger-print versions with exaggerated fluffy frou-frou.

"If you can only buy one thing, you don't want it to be a plain sweater or a pair of boring trousers, you want a standout piece," says a publication head.

This feeling is shared by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, fun touch" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.

The Ultimate Mood Booster

In the end, the fuzzy coat can serve as a fantastic mood lifter.

"It won't cost a fortune," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glamorous when everything else is rather dreary."