In the world of cinema, fashion often leaves an indelible mark on the minds of audiences, creating iconic moments that stand the test of time. From Julia Roberts‘s enchanting ruby red ball gown in “Pretty Woman” to Cher Horowitz’s plaid ensemble in “Clueless,” and Natalie Portman‘s captivating ballerina outfits in “Black Swan,” these fashion moments become synonymous with the characters they adorn. Some actresses choose to let these costumes remain in the archives of film history, while others occasionally offer a glimpse into their on-screen fashion through their personal styles.
This Thursday, Hollywood star Kate Hudson took a stroll down memory lane as she stepped out in a clear homage to her beloved character from the cult classic film “Almost Famous.” In the movie, Hudson portrays Penny Lane, a charismatic groupie inspired by real-life figure Pennie Lane Trumbull and her group of female promoters known as the Flying Garter Girls Group. Hudson’s character takes viewers back to the heyday of rock ‘n’ roll and ’70s fashion, largely due to a distinctive shearling coat that became synonymous with Penny Lane’s identity.
Kate Hudson and Patrick Fugit in Almost Famous. pic.twitter.com/Clj2pkGmoX
— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) October 18, 2021
Over two decades after the film’s debut, Kate Hudson graced the streets of New York City in an outfit reminiscent of Lane’s signature look. While her coat was entirely fur, deviating from Lane’s shearling-trimmed version, it sported the same two-tone colorway and roomy fit. Hudson paired the ensemble with black heeled boots, mirroring her character’s statement shoe choice, and loose-fitting denim. Putting her personal spin on the iconic look, she added a printed top-handle bag and a striped sweater layered underneath.
The significance of Penny Lane’s coat was highlighted by the film’s costume designer, Betsy Heimann, in 2015. Heimann explained that the jacket served as a form of “protection” for the character, transforming her into Penny Lane regardless of her emotional state. Unfortunately, the exact whereabouts of the original coat remain unknown, a fact that even Hudson acknowledges. In a candid moment, the actress revealed, “I stole a pair of jeans and a shirt I don’t even think made it in the movie. I didn’t get the fur. I think the coat is in the Academy Museum.”
Hudson also shared insights into how her breakthrough role as Penny Lane almost didn’t materialize. Initially cast as the sister, she recounted, “At the time, it was Brad Pitt as Russell, the rock star, and Sarah Polley as Penny Lane. But that casting fell apart, and I auditioned for Penny Lane. When they told me I had the part, I burst into tears.” The enduring appeal of “Almost Famous” lies not only in its nostalgic depiction of the ’70s rock scene but also in the unforgettable fashion choices that continue to influence and inspire. Kate Hudson’s recent fashion tribute serves as a delightful reminder of the timeless connection between cinema and style, proving that some characters and their iconic looks are destined to live on, both on and off the screen.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
