Dolly Parton’s influence on country music extends far beyond her legendary songs, and her unmistakable fashion sense was also celebrated in Nashville this week. The Country Music Association hosted I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday, October 21, bringing together some of the biggest names in music for an evening of performances and glamorous red-carpet appearances.
While artists paid tribute to Parton by performing her songs, their outfits also reflected different aspects of the country icon’s enduring style. From sparkling gowns and butterfly embellishments to daring animal prints and classic Western looks, the evening offered plenty of memorable fashion moments.
Here are eight celebrities who stood out at the celebration.
1. Kelsea Ballerini Brings Hollywood Glamour in White
Kelsea Ballerini delivered an elegant red-carpet moment in a $1,250 satin gown from Bronx Banco’s bridal collection. The floor-length design featured feather-trimmed bell sleeves and a low back, giving the look a glamorous, old-Hollywood feel.
She completed the ensemble with an updo and long diamond earrings. The combination of white satin, feathers and sparkling accessories echoed the extravagant glamour that has long been associated with Parton.
2. Lainey Wilson Stays True to Her Western Roots
Lainey Wilson took a different approach, honoring Parton without abandoning her own recognizable style. The country singer and Yellowstone star wore black trousers with a butterfly-print duster top, cowboy boots, a matching hat and bold Western jewelry.
The butterfly details carried special meaning. Butterflies have long been associated with Parton, making Wilson’s outfit a thoughtful tribute that felt personal rather than overly literal.
3. Reba McEntire Makes a Statement onstage
Reba McEntire brought classic country glamour to the stage while performing He’s Alive. Her white caftan-style dress featured a collar, long sleeves and elaborate rhinestone embellishments.
Long strands of sparkling fringe decorated the sleeves, while a rhinestone scrollwork pattern added detail across the dress. The dramatic design suited the emotional nature of her performance while maintaining the polished country style she is known for.
4. Kristin Chenoweth Sparkles in Silver Sequins
Kristin Chenoweth looked ready for a Dolly Parton-inspired fashion moment in a fitted gown covered in silver sequins. The design featured a mock neckline, long sleeves and a floor-length skirt, creating a sleek silhouette with plenty of sparkle.
She kept her accessories delicate, pairing the dress with diamond earrings and several rings. The shimmering ensemble recalled the dazzling stage costumes Parton has worn throughout her career.
5. Carrie Underwood Embraces Fairytale Glamour
Carrie Underwood opted for a princess-inspired look in a strapless white gown with a voluminous skirt and a tulle overlay. Pink butterfly appliqués appeared across the dress, adding a soft, romantic touch to the otherwise classic design.
Long diamond earrings and softly waved hair completed the ensemble. Underwood also performed Parton’s signature song I Will Always Love You, making the butterfly details an especially fitting choice for the occasion.
6. Katy Perry Stands Out in Vintage Animal Print
Katy Perry brought a bolder fashion statement to the celebration with a vintage Roberto Cavalli gown from 2004. The sleeveless design featured a deep neckline, a flowing skirt and multiple animal-print patterns.
While many attendees leaned into white gowns and sparkling embellishments, Perry’s look offered a striking contrast. It also referenced another recognizable element of Parton’s fashion history: her love of daring animal prints.
7. Ella Langley Adds a Butterfly Detail to Pink Glamour
Country singer Ella Langley, known for her hit Choosin’ Texas, chose a pale-pink minidress with long sleeves and a plunging neckline.
Strings of beads and crystals decorated the dress, while a sparkling pink butterfly appliqué sat prominently at the center of the design. The playful details gave her look a youthful feel while paying homage to one of Parton’s favorite motifs.
8. Hillary Scott Combines Leopard Print and Sequins
Hillary Scott of Lady A completed the list with a gown that blended two elements associated with Parton’s bold fashion choices. The sleeveless design featured a sweetheart neckline, a thigh-high slit and an all-over leopard print created with sequins.
Although the silhouette was relatively simple, the shimmering animal-print finish made the dress stand out. It was a confident choice that captured the more daring side of Parton’s style.
A Celebration of Dolly Parton’s Lasting Fashion Influence
The eight looks demonstrated just how many ways artists can pay tribute to Parton’s legacy. Some embraced her love of rhinestones and dramatic gowns, while others incorporated butterflies, animal prints or traditional Western elements.
More than a celebration of country music, the event highlighted Parton’s lasting influence on the way performers express themselves through fashion. Decades into her career, her signature style remains instantly recognizable, inspiring a new generation of artists to bring their own interpretation of her glamour to the red carpet.
Source: Compiled from various sources.