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

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

With the festive social calendar coming up, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a significant comeback.

Retail Statistics Shows the Trend

One of the most popular items from a latest partnership between a major retailer and a designer brand is a cropped, off-white, shaggy jacket with giant lapels.

At a leading retailer, searches for taupe fake fur coats have surged almost 200% year on year.

Interest for secondhand plush finds is also soaring, with queries for synthetic fur growing by 257% in the past six months on a major resale website.

"It's a one and done coat," notes a lead style expert, explaining that it acts as the main element of an ensemble.

The editor likes to wear her own colossal shaggy version with low-rise jeans or leggings and short shorts.

Television Style Mirrors the Look

This aesthetic is showcased in a new streaming romcom series, where a character wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.

When challenged about her bold look, the sister responds, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"

The Rise of the "Glamorous" Aesthetic

This look fits into what an American trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."

Inspired by the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this vibe brings to mind wealth, champagne, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, of course, fur.

Similar to that time, the trend is emerging during a uncertain economy.

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

Contemporary Fabrics and Playful Opulence

Whereas animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, current versions are mostly made from shearling—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made fabrics like polyester.

The trend embodies a knowing opulence—as if a beloved character has taken charge with exaggerated proportions and surprising colors.

Celebrity Adoption and Limited Drops

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

Because of strong interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An upcoming launch includes a pink and grey version similar to a giant pom-pom, alongside leopard- and tiger-print versions with dramatic fuzzy frou-frou.

"When you can only purchase a single item, you wouldn't choose it to be a basic sweater or a pair of ordinary pants, you want a standout piece," explains a magazine editor-in-chief.

The feeling is shared by a style head at a leading store, who calls it "a surprising, playful touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.

The Ultimate Spirit Booster

Ultimately, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic mood lifter.

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