Dolly Parton is known for her music, philanthropy, and unmistakable style. Her hair, in particular, has become as iconic as the singer herself. From her early days to the present, Parton’s looks have always been bold, glamorous, and unapologetically big.
The Evolution of a Look
Parton’s signature voluminous hair didn’t emerge until the 1970s. Before then, she experimented with teased bobs and pixie cuts, but her appearances on The Porter Wagoner Show marked a turning point. As she recalled in her memoir Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, this era cemented her commitment to over-the-top hair.
“I wear my high heels and my hair as high as I can get it. Whenever that style started, I was the first to get my hair all poofy.”
Parton quickly embraced wigs and hairpieces, not just for convenience, but because they allowed her to achieve the exact look she wanted. Her natural hair, she admitted, did not always cooperate. Wigs became a hallmark of her image.
Control and Individuality
Parton’s approach to hair and makeup was always about asserting control over her own image. Even with professional makeup artists on The Porter Wagoner Show, she insisted on adding her own touches.
“I was always into makeup, but I never could stand anybody else’s version of me.”
This statement underscores a core theme in Parton’s career: a fierce dedication to self-expression and refusing to let others define her style.
Parton’s hair is more than just a look; it’s a symbol of her confidence, individuality, and refusal to conform. Her bold choices have influenced fashion trends and continue to inspire fans worldwide.
