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Nashville recently witnessed a dazzling celebration as the beloved music icon Dolly Parton graced the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the “Dolly Parton and the Makers: My Life in Rhinestones” exhibit. This extraordinary showcase, hosted at Lipscomb University’s Beaman Library, pays homage to Dolly’s illustrious career and her iconic fashion legacy.
Dolly Parton, a timeless legend at 77, turned heads in a spectacular black and silver gown adorned with small spikes, web-like mesh accents, and other exquisite embellishments during the grand unveiling. The event, perfectly timed for the Halloween season, marked the countdown to the exhibit’s official opening on October 31.
Accompanying Dolly at the ribbon cutting was Rebecca Seaver, her niece and archivist, who shared in the excitement of the anticipated exhibit preview. As the iconic singer reminisced about her awe-inspiring journey, she playfully remarked, “I’m amazed at how much I’ve done, I really am. Someone says how does it feel to see all that? I think, ‘Phew, that’s a lot of living.'”
The exhibition, running from October 31 to December 9, offers much more than a glimpse into Dolly Parton’s remarkable fashion evolution. It also brings into focus the creative minds responsible for crafting the 25 exquisite looks featured in the exhibit, shedding light on “the true magic that happens behind the seams.” The retrospective closely follows the release of her latest book, “Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones,” which became available on October 17.
Candice McQueen, Lipscomb University’s president, expressed her excitement regarding the collaboration with Dolly Parton and the unveiling of the exhibit. “We are thrilled to partner with Dolly Parton and those behind her iconic fashion to offer the community this exciting opportunity to have an up-close look at some of her favorite outfits and to learn more about these treasured looks,” she said.
McQueen emphasized the extensive educational value of the fashion exhibition for students, enabling them to gain insights into the creative process and techniques, and interact with the talented makers behind Dolly’s cherished fashion pieces.
Dolly Parton also took a moment during the ribbon-cutting ceremony to reflect on her favorite look on display – the dress she wore while performing “He’s Alive” at the 1989 CMA Awards. She expressed her deep affection for the song and the profound meaning it held for her.
The remarkable event saw McQueen joining Dolly in cutting the ribbon, and she commended the exhibit and ceremony as a tribute to one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry. According to McQueen, Dolly’s music has been the soundtrack of countless lives, and her unique fashion sense has made an enduring mark on the world of style.
Dolly Parton’s influence, as displayed through her impeccable style and distinctive fashion choices, continues to captivate fans and inspire generations, exemplifying her indomitable spirit and self-assured approach to life. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Dolly Parton discussed her fashion inspirations and the fearless confidence she embraced throughout her career. Her story highlights the incredible legacy of a legendary artist whose life is a testament to embracing individuality and celebrating self-expression.