70s Nightclub Fashion Returns for a Revival: Shaggy Jackets Have Become the Festive Essential Must-Have

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

This season, 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 holiday party season approaching, the distinctive Studio 54 coat is experiencing a major comeback.

Shopping Statistics Shows the Trend

Among the most popular items from a latest collaboration between a major retailer and a London label is a cropped, cream, long-haired jacket with oversized lapels.

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

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

"It's a one and done coat," says a lead style expert, explaining that it acts as the central element of an outfit.

The editor likes to wear her personal oversized furry coat with low-rise jeans or tights and short shorts.

Screen Style Echoes the Look

The aesthetic is showcased in a new Netflix romcom series, where a sister wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.

When questioned about her daring outfit, the character replies, "You told us to dress up. It's fashion!"

The Rise of the "Boom Boom" Aesthetic

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

Rooted in the extravagance and opulence of the 1980s New York, this aesthetic evokes wads of cash, bubbly, smoking, short skirts, carefree attitudes and, naturally, fuzzy textures.

Like that time, the trend is emerging during a volatile financial climate.

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

Modern Materials and Tongue-in-Cheek Opulence

While animal fur was omnipresent during Studio 54's peak, current versions are mostly made from lambskin—a secondary product of the meat industry—or man-made materials like acrylic.

The trend embodies a knowing opulence—like a famous Muppet has taken charge with overblown proportions and unexpected hues.

Star Endorsement and Limited Drops

A London creator was an pioneer of this movement. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like proportions have been worn by top singers.

Because of high demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An upcoming launch includes a rose and charcoal version similar to a large pom-pom, as well as leopard- and zebra-print versions with dramatic fuzzy trim.

"If you can only purchase a single item, you don't want it to be a basic jumper or a pair of boring trousers, you want something dramatic," says a magazine editor-in-chief.

This sentiment is shared by a fashion director at a major store, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that doesn't require a whole new ensemble.

The Ultimate Spirit Booster

Ultimately, the fuzzy coat can serve as a fantastic pick-me-up.

"It won't cost a lot," notes the expert, "and it will make you feel glamorous when everything else is pretty gloomy."

Timothy West
Timothy West

Lena is a seasoned gaming journalist with over a decade of experience covering industry trends and esports events.