Our Tribute to Dolly!

This an appreciation post for one of our favorites at Water Street Jewelers...Dolly Parton! You may even hear her music playing when you stop in the store. She's a national treasure, a fashion icon, a beloved musician and someone with a heart even bigger than her hair.

And we also want to take a moment to celebrate her extraordinary love story with her husband of 60 years, Carl Dean. We would all be so lucky to find someone to love us" just the way we are." Dolly, even though Carl has passed, we are all celebrating your love story with you.

And because we love her so much...we also want to celebrate Dolly Parton’s jewelry style! It's always been as bold, glamorous, and sparkly as her personality. Over the decades, she has embraced statement pieces that reflect her signature over the top, rhinestone studded aesthetic. Here’s how her jewelry style has evolved through the years:

The Classic Country Look

Early in her career, Dolly’s jewelry was relatively modest compared to her later years.
She often wore simple hoop earrings and understated rings.
Her look was influenced by the traditional Southern belle style, with a touch of country charm.

Rhinestones and Glam

As Dolly’s fame grew, so did her love for glitz and glamour.
She started incorporating big, sparkly earrings and statement rings.
Rhinestones and faux diamonds became a staple, mirroring the flashy stage outfits she wore.

Bigger, Bolder, and Blingier

The 80s were all about excess, and Dolly fully embraced it. More IS more!
Oversized earrings, dramatic chandelier style pieces, and layered gold and silver chains became part of her signature look.
She often paired her jewelry with BIG hair and sequined outfits
Brooches and large cocktail rings added even more sparkle.

Classic Dolly with a Polished Edge

As we rolled out of the 80's, Dolly's jewelry choices became slightly more sophisticated, but NEVER dull.
Large diamonds, elegant chandeliers, and sparkling statement cuffs were still part of her go to pieces.
She embraced more timeless designs but always ensured they had that plenty of flair.

The Iconic Look Lives On

Even in her 70s, Dolly continues to sparkle with rhinestone-studded and crystal embellished pieces.
Custom, one of a kind jewelry featuring her initials, butterflies, and crosses remain part of her signature style.
She mixes vintage Hollywood glam with country bling, staying true to her roots.

Key Features of Dolly’s Jewelry Style

💎Rhinestones & Sparkle – The shinier, the better!
💎Big Earrings – From hoops to chandeliers, her earrings always make a statement.
💎Layered Necklaces – Often featuring crosses, pearls, or gemstones.
💎Statement Rings – Large cocktail rings that draw attention.
💎Western & Religious Elements – Cross pendants, turquoise, and silver details.

Dolly Parton’s jewelry has always been about confidence, excess, and a love for sparkle. Whether it’s on stage or off, she knows how to shine!

And if you're in need of a little inspiration and a dose of sunshine...just listen to Dolly! Here are our favorite Dolly'isms...

💙"Find out who you are and do it on purpose."

💙 "If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one."

💙 "You’ll never do a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try."

💙 "If you see someone without a smile, give them yours."

💙 "Storms make trees take deeper roots."

💙 "Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life."

💙 "Dreams are of no value if they’re not equipped with wings."

💙 "We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails."