image via Pinterest 

The hair. The heels. The rhinestones. The songs. The attitude. The laugh. The wit. The heart. Is there anything not to love about Dolly Parton?

Long before the wigs, sequins, and sky-high heels, a 13-year-old Dolly Parton made her debut at Nashville's legendary Grand Ole Opry in 1959, introduced by none other than Johnny Cash. Who could have imagined that the little girl from the Smoky Mountains would become one of the most beloved entertainers of all time?

A little country, a whole lot of glamour, and more personality than most people could dream of. Dolly spent decades proving that you could be unapologetically feminine, wildly successful, incredibly smart, and still have a wonderful sense of humor about yourself.

 

images via Pinterest 

Let's talk about the style - the bigger the hair, the better. Sequins for breakfast, absolutely! Sky-high heels, impossibly tiny waists, and enough sparkle to light up Nashville. Dolly was never interested in blending in, and thank goodness for that.

But behind all that fabulousness was an extraordinary talent and one seriously savvy businesswoman. A gifted songwriter who gave us Jolene and I Will Always Love You, an actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Dolly built an incredible empire while never forgetting her humble beginnings.

Through her Imagination Library, she helped put millions of books into the hands of children around the world. Beneath the rhinestones was a woman with an enormous heart.

When I lived in Nashville, I always hoped I'd run into Dolly somewhere around town. Sadly I never did, but I loved knowing there was always a possibility.

Perhaps what I admire most about Dolly is that she never tried to be anyone other than herself. Funny, generous, fiercely independent, and perfectly comfortable being underestimated, she understood something that so many people never quite figure out: being yourself is more than enough.

In a world where everyone seems to be trying to look, dress, and think alike, Dolly was a glorious reminder that individuality is what makes us unforgettable.

Thank you for the music, the laughter, the sparkle, and for reminding us that being yourself is always in style!! 

And when in doubt, just ask yourself, “What would Dolly do?”

We will always love you, Dolly.