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While the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its unique fashion influence remains powerful.

This season, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, fuzzy coats and wraps worn by celebrities and party enthusiasts as well.

With the festive party season approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major comeback.

Shopping Statistics Reflects the Trend

One of the hottest items from a recent partnership between a major retailer and a designer brand is a short, off-white, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.

At a leading retailer, searches for brown faux fur coats have jumped 190% year on year.

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

"It's a statement coat," notes a senior fashion editor, adding that it serves as the central element of an outfit.

The editor likes to style her own colossal furry coat with low-rise jeans or tights and short shorts.

Television Fashion Mirrors the Look

The style is replicated in a new Netflix romcom series, where a sister wears a toffee-colored furry jacket to a informal dinner.

When challenged about her bold outfit, the character replies, "You told us to look fancy. That's style!"

The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe

This look aligns with what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."

Inspired by the glamour and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, bubbly, smoking, short skirts, loose morals and, of course, fur.

Like that time, the trend is set against a volatile financial climate.

This style is all about dressing for the life you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.

Modern Fabrics and Playful Opulence

Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, current iterations are primarily made from lambskin—a secondary product of the food industry—or man-made materials like acrylic.

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

Star Endorsement and Exclusive Drops

A London designer was an early instigator of this movement. Her fluffy coats with curly textures have been sported by top pop stars.

Due to strong demand, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and tiger-print options with dramatic fuzzy frou-frou.

"When you can only purchase one thing, you don't want it to be a plain jumper or a pair of ordinary trousers, you want a standout piece," explains a magazine head.

This feeling is shared by a style head at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, playful touch" that doesn't require a complete ensemble.

Final Spirit Lifter

In the end, the shaggy coat can serve as a great mood lifter.

"It doesn't have to cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it's going to make you feel glamorous when everything else is pretty gloomy."