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While the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors nearly four decades ago, its unique fashion influence continues powerful.

Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and wraps favored by celebrities and party enthusiasts alike.

With the holiday social calendar approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a significant comeback.

Retail Data Reflects the Popularity

Among the most popular items from a latest collaboration between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a cropped, cream, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.

At a leading retailer, online queries for taupe faux fur coats have surged 190% compared to last year.

Interest for secondhand plush items is also rising, with queries for faux fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major secondhand website.

"This is a statement coat," notes a senior style expert, explaining that it acts as the main piece of an ensemble.

The editor prefers to wear her personal colossal shaggy coat with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.

Screen Style Echoes the Trend

This aesthetic is showcased in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a character wears a toffee-colored furry jacket to a informal dinner.

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

Emergence of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic

This look aligns with what an American trend forecaster is calling "boom boom."

Rooted in the extravagance and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, carefree attitudes and, of course, fuzzy textures.

Like that era, the trend is set against a volatile economy.

This style is all about embodying the life you aspire to rather than the one you are stuck with.

Contemporary Materials and Playful Luxury

Whereas real fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, today's iterations are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the food industry—or man-made materials like acrylic.

The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.

Celebrity Endorsement and Exclusive Drops

An English creator was an early instigator of this trend. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like proportions have been worn by top pop stars.

Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming launch includes a rose and charcoal version akin to a giant pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fuzzy trim.

"When you can only buy a single item, you don't want it to be a basic sweater or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," says a publication head.

This feeling is shared by a fashion director at a leading store, who calls it "an unexpected, playful element" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.

Final Mood Lifter

Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can act as a great mood lifter.

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