70s Nightclub Fashion Makes a Comeback: Shaggy Coats Have Become the Party Essential Must-Have

While the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 closed almost four decades ago, its distinct style impact continues strong.

Currently, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and wraps favored by celebrities and club-goers as well.

With the holiday party season coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major comeback.

Shopping Data Reflects the Popularity

One of the hottest items from a latest partnership between a high-street brand and a designer brand is a short, off-white, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.

At another department store, searches for taupe fake fur coats have surged almost 200% year on year.

The demand for secondhand plush items is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur increasing by 257% in the past six months on a popular secondhand platform.

"It's a statement coat," notes a lead fashion editor, explaining that it acts as the main piece of an outfit.

She likes to wear her own colossal furry coat with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.

Screen Fashion Echoes the Look

This aesthetic is showcased in a latest Netflix romantic comedy series, where a character sports a caramel fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.

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

The Rise of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic

The trend aligns with what a U.S. style analyst is calling "glam excess."

Rooted in the glamour and opulence of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, cigarettes, short skirts, loose morals and, of course, fuzzy textures.

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

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

Contemporary Materials and Playful Luxury

While real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's peak, current iterations are primarily made from shearling—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made materials like polyester.

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

Celebrity Adoption and Limited Drops

An English designer was an early instigator of this movement. Her shaggy coats with poodle-like textures have been sported by top singers.

Due to high interest, these coats are now only sold in limited drops. An upcoming launch includes a pink and grey version akin to a large pom-pom, alongside animal and tiger-print versions with exaggerated fuzzy frou-frou.

"If you can only buy one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," explains a publication editor-in-chief.

The sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who calls it "an unexpected, playful touch" that doesn't require a whole new outfit.

The Ultimate Spirit Booster

Ultimately, 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 glam when the world around you is rather dreary."