Dolly Parton reflects on her legacy, brand empire, and why she never toned it down

Country music icon Dolly Parton says her decades-long success is rooted in staying true to herself — flashy style and all.

In a recent interview with Women’s Wear Daily, the "I Will Always Love You" singer reaffirmed her signature look, saying, “I want to look cheap… that’s my look. I like the overdone. I like the bleached hair.”

At 78, Parton continues to expand her brand empire while proudly embracing her individuality. She recently teamed up with Khloé Kardashian’s Good American label to release Joleans, a rhinestone-studded denim collection inspired by her hit Jolene. She also collaborated with pop star Sabrina Carpenter on a Valentine’s Day duet of Carpenter’s hit Please, Please, Please.

Despite the glam, Parton has built a career on heart and hustle. She credits her mother’s advice — “to thine own self be true” — as her guiding force and says she still doesn’t feel she’s “arrived.” Parton plans to continue performing and expanding her lifestyle brand, which includes future makeup, wig, and clothing lines.

Parton recently made her first public appearance following the death of her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean. At Dollywood’s 40th anniversary event, she told fans, “Of course, I will always love him… but I wanted you to know I will always love you too.”

With no plans to retire, Parton remains a cultural force who leads with authenticity, resilience, and an unshakable sense of self — proving once again that boldness, heart, and grit never go out of style.