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While the legendary New York venue Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its unique fashion influence remains strong.

Currently, the focus isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and stoles worn by celebrities and club-goers as well.

With the holiday social calendar approaching, the signature Studio 54 coat is enjoying a major comeback.

Retail Data Shows the Trend

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

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

The demand for secondhand fuzzy items is also soaring, with searches for synthetic fur increasing by over 250% in the last six months on a popular secondhand platform.

"This is a statement coat," notes a senior style expert, explaining that it serves as the central element of an outfit.

She likes to wear her own colossal shaggy coat with hipster jeans or tights and micro shorts.

Television Fashion Mirrors the Trend

The style is showcased in a latest streaming romantic comedy series, where a character wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a casual dinner.

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

Emergence of the "Boom Boom" Vibe

The trend aligns with what an American trend forecaster is terming "boom boom."

Rooted in the glamour and excess of late-80s New York, this aesthetic brings to mind wads of cash, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, loose morals and, of course, fuzzy textures.

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

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

Modern Fabrics and Playful Luxury

Whereas real fur was everywhere during Studio 54's heyday, today's versions are primarily made from shearling—a byproduct of the meat industry—or synthetic materials like polyester.

The trend represents a knowing opulence—as if a famous Muppet has taken charge with overblown silhouettes and surprising hues.

Star Adoption and Limited Drops

An English designer was an early instigator of this trend. Her shaggy coats with poodle-like textures have been worn by famous singers.

Because of strong demand, these coats are now only sold in exclusive drops. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal version akin to a large pom-pom, alongside leopard- and zebra-print versions with exaggerated fluffy frou-frou.

"If you can only purchase one thing, you wouldn't choose it to be a plain jumper or a pair of boring pants, you want a standout piece," explains a publication editor-in-chief.

The feeling is echoed by a fashion director at a major store, who describes it "an unexpected, playful touch" that avoids the need for a complete outfit.

The Ultimate Mood Lifter

In the end, the fuzzy coat can act 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 rather dreary."