70s Nightclub Style Makes a Comeback: Shaggy Coats Are the Festive Essential Must-Have

Although the legendary New York nightclub Studio 54 shut its doors almost four decades ago, its distinct style impact remains powerful.

This season, the focus isn't on see-through bodysuits but on the plush, shaggy coats and wraps favored by style icons and club-goers as well.

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

Retail Statistics Shows the Popularity

One of the hottest items from a latest collaboration between a major retailer and a designer brand is a short, cream, shaggy jacket with oversized lapels.

At a leading retailer, searches for taupe fake fur coats have surged 190% compared to last year.

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

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

She prefers to wear her own oversized furry version with low-rise jeans or tights and micro shorts.

Television Style Mirrors the Trend

The aesthetic is replicated in a latest Netflix romcom series, where a character wears a caramel furry jacket to a casual dinner.

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

The Rise of the "Glamorous" Vibe

The trend fits into what a U.S. trend forecaster is terming "glam excess."

Rooted in the glamour and opulence of late-80s New York, this vibe evokes wealth, champagne, smoking, high hemlines, loose morals and, naturally, fur.

Similar to that era, the trend is set against a uncertain financial climate.

This style is very much about dressing for the lifestyle you dream of rather than the one you have to endure.

Modern Materials and Playful Opulence

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

The trend embodies a tongue-in-cheek luxury—as if a famous Muppet has taken over with exaggerated silhouettes and surprising colors.

Star Endorsement and Exclusive Releases

An English designer was an pioneer of this trend. Her shaggy coats with poodle-like textures have been sported by famous pop stars.

Due to high demand, these coats are now only sold in limited collections. An forthcoming launch includes a rose and grey style akin to a giant pom-pom, as well as animal and tiger-print options with exaggerated fluffy frou-frou.

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

The feeling is echoed by a fashion director at a leading retailer, who describes it "a surprising, fun element" that doesn't require a complete outfit.

The Ultimate Mood Booster

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

"It doesn't have to cost a lot," notes the editor, "and it's going to make you feel glamorous when the world around you is rather dreary."

Andrew Smith
Andrew Smith

A certified fitness trainer and nature enthusiast, passionate about helping others achieve wellness through outdoor adventures.