"Drawings of Snoopy are displayed as part of Peanuts' 75th Anniversary, at the Snoopy In Style exhibition that runs from March 22 through April 5, in Paris Thursday, March 20, 2025. (AP Photo)
A new exhibition in Paris is putting a stylish twist on Snoopy and the Peanuts gang. Titled “Snoopy in Style,” the show explores how fashion has shaped the beloved characters over the decades. As the 75th anniversary of Peanuts approaches on October 2, this exhibit highlights their influence on pop culture and high fashion.
From Comic Strips to Couture
When Charles M. Schulz first sketched Charlie Brown, he lacked his now-famous zig-zag shirt. Over time, Schulz gave each character a signature look, making them instantly recognizable.
Peppermint Patty’s casual attire even predated legal changes that allowed girls to wear pants in schools. Meanwhile, Snoopy—ever the trendsetter—has been dressed by top designers, including Chanel, Fendi, and Vivienne Westwood.
Designer Snoopy Takes Center Stage
The exhibition features 75 designer outfits created for plush versions of Snoopy and his sister Belle. These outfits come from some of the biggest names in fashion, including Dolce & Gabbana, Betsey Johnson, Zac Posen, and Christian Siriano.
Melissa Menta, an executive at Peanuts Worldwide, emphasized the global appeal of these fashion collaborations.
"We have dolls from every major designer—Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain. We even have Lacoste and Valentino by Alessandro Michele," she said.
The Signature Styles of Peanuts
According to Jeannie Schulz, widow of Charles M. Schulz and founder of The Charles M. Schulz Museum, her late husband knew the importance of style in character design.
"He realized that characters needed a distinct look. That’s why Charlie Brown got his stripe, Lucy got her painted dress, and Sally got her bow," she explained.
Peanuts: Fashion in Europe vs. the U.S.
The exhibition also highlights how Peanuts is viewed differently across the world.
"In the U.S., Peanuts is most famous for its holiday specials like A Charlie Brown Christmas," said Menta.
"But in Europe, it’s seen more as a fashion brand."
Snoopy’s Influence on the Runway
The exhibition also showcases vintage Peanuts-inspired fashion, including pieces by Marc Jacobs and Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. In 1989, Castelbajac made headlines when Vanessa Paradis walked the runway wearing a jacket covered in Snoopy plush toys.
His “King Snoopy” statue is another highlight of the show, alongside Peanuts merchandise dating back to the 1960s.
Why Peanuts Still Captivates Fans
Even after 75 years, Peanuts remains beloved. Jeannie Schulz believes it’s because the characters reflect human emotions.
"Snoopy is adorable, but beyond that, the comic strip speaks to humanity," she said.
"Even Snoopy worries about whether people like him. Charlie Brown wonders how he fits into the world."
Exhibition Details
This free exhibition runs from March 22 to April 5 at Hôtel du Grand Veneur in Paris’ Marais district. Whether you’re a Peanuts fan, a fashion lover, or both, this stylish celebration is a must-see!
