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

Currently, the spotlight isn't on sheer bodysuits but on the furry, fuzzy coats and stoles favored by style icons and party enthusiasts as well.

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

Retail Statistics Reflects the Trend

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

At another department store, online queries for brown faux fur coats have surged almost 200% compared to last year.

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

"It's a statement coat," says a senior fashion editor, adding that it acts as the main piece of an ensemble.

She prefers to wear her personal colossal furry coat with hipster jeans or tights and micro shorts.

Screen Style Echoes the Look

This style is showcased in a new Netflix romcom series, where a character wears a toffee-colored fuzzy jacket to a informal dinner.

When challenged about her daring outfit, the sister responds, "It's what you said to look fancy. That's style!"

Emergence of the "Glamorous" Vibe

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

Rooted in the extravagance and excess of the 1980s New York, this vibe evokes wealth, champagne, cigarettes, high hemlines, loose morals and, naturally, fuzzy textures.

Like that era, the trend is emerging during a uncertain financial climate.

This style is all about dressing for the lifestyle you aspire to rather than the one you are stuck with.

Contemporary Fabrics and Tongue-in-Cheek Luxury

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

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

Star Adoption and Exclusive Drops

An English creator was an early instigator of this movement. Her fluffy coats with poodle-like textures have been worn by famous pop stars.

Because of high interest, these coats are now only sold in exclusive collections. An forthcoming launch includes a pink and charcoal version similar to a giant pom-pom, as well as animal and zebra-print options with exaggerated fluffy trim.

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

The sentiment is echoed by a fashion director at a leading store, who describes it "a surprising, fun touch" that avoids the need for a whole new outfit.

The Ultimate Mood Lifter

In the end, the shaggy coat can act as a fantastic pick-me-up.

"It won't cost a lot," notes the expert, "and it's going to make you feel glam when the world around you is rather gloomy."