🔗 Share this article

While the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 closed 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 festive social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major comeback.

Shopping Statistics Reflects the Popularity

Among the most popular items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a London label is a short, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.

At a leading retailer, searches for brown faux fur coats have jumped almost 200% compared to last year.

The demand for pre-owned fuzzy items is also soaring, with searches for faux fur growing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand website.

"It's a statement coat," says a senior fashion editor, explaining that it acts as the central element of an outfit.

She prefers to wear her own oversized shaggy version with hipster jeans or leggings and micro shorts.

Screen Style Mirrors the Trend

This aesthetic is showcased in a latest Netflix romcom series, where a character sports a caramel furry jacket to a informal dinner.

When questioned about her daring look, the character replies, "It's what you said to look fancy. That's style!"

The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe

This look fits into what an American style analyst is terming "boom boom."

Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of late-80s New York, this vibe brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, smoking, short skirts, loose morals and, naturally, fur.

Similar to that time, the trend is set against a uncertain financial climate.

Boom boom is very much about embodying the life you aspire to rather than the one you have to endure.

Modern Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence

Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, today's versions are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the food industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.

The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek opulence—like a beloved character has taken charge with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.

Celebrity Endorsement and Limited Drops

An English designer was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with curly proportions have been worn by top pop stars.

Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming release includes a rose and grey version similar to a large pom-pom, as well as animal and tiger-print options with dramatic fuzzy frou-frou.

"If you can only buy a single item, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want something dramatic," says a publication editor-in-chief.

The sentiment is echoed by a style head at a major store, who calls it "a surprising, fun touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.

Final Mood Lifter

In the end, the shaggy coat can serve as a great pick-me-up.

"It doesn't have to cost a lot," says the expert, "and it will make you feel glam when everything else is pretty dreary."