Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones

by Dolly Parton (Author, Narrator), Holly George-Warren (Contributor, Narrator), Rebecca Seaver (Curator, Narrator)

Length: 4 hours and 21 minutes

A beautiful celebration of Dolly Parton’s iconic sense of style through entertaining personal stories, interviews with friends and family, music, and archival interview and performance clips.

In Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones, global superstar Dolly Parton shares, for the first time, the full story behind her lifelong passion for fashion, including how she developed her own, distinctly Dolly style, which has defied convention and endeared her to fans around the world.

Featuring behind-the-scenes stories from Dolly Parton’s life and career, this audiobook spotlights her most unforgettable looks from the 1960s to now. The sky-high heels, famous wigs, bold makeup, eye-catching stage clothes—she shares them all. Along the way, Parton discusses memorable outfits from her past and the daring styles that continue to entertain and inspire today.

Filled with candor, humor, and lots and lots of rhinestones, Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones is a shining tribute to one of the most beloved musicians in history, a treasured keepsake for anyone who loves Dolly Parton, and an indispensable guide to forging your own path to beauty and confidence.

This audiobook includes a Bonus PDF with exclusive images from Dolly’s private costume archive

This audio is narrated by the authors with contributions from many of Dolly’s lifelong fashion collaborators:

Dolly Parton, Holly George-Warren, Rebecca Seaver, Allister Ann, Ann Roth, Art Streiber, Aurelia, Bobbe Joy, Cheryl Riddle, Debra McGuire, Fran Strine, Iisha Lemming, Jason Pirro, Jim Herrington, Randee St Nicholas, Riley Hanratty, Robert Behar, Stacia Lang, Stacie Huckeba, Steve Summers, Timothy White, and Vance Nichols

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir, Biography, Music, Fashion, Biography Memoir

Audiobook

First published October 17, 2023

About the author

Dolly Rebecca Parton is a Grammy Award-winning country music singer/songwriter, author, actress and philanthropist. To date, she remains one of the most successful country artists, with 25 number-one singles (a record for a female performer) and 42 top-10 country albums (more than anyone else).

She is known for her distinctive mountain soprano, sometimes bawdy humor, flamboyant dress sense, and her voluptuous figure.

Reviews

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

At one point Dolly says that her pants are so tight that if she farts her wig will fly off, so, five stars.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, let’s just get this out of the way before I begin…

I love Dolly Parton. Everything about her. She is generous, beautiful, talented and totally honest about herself.

And…Her Imagination Library organization is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children from birth to age five. (I always love it when those books are donated to our Little Free Library Shed.)

So…When we were invited inside her closet, why not enjoy the experience? Right?

Because…Whenever we see the public Dolly Parton, we know she is going to be well-made up, with gorgeous wigs, and over-the-top costumes that she is quite comfortable considering as everyday wear.

And…We learn all about it in her 10 chapters filled with photos that give voice to her fashion designers, costumers, makeup artists, hairstylists, photographers and fashion archivists.

These same individuals…

Also share their own personal stories of what it is like to work with Ms. Parton.

And…How can you not resist such chapter titles as: Isn’t a star supposed to shine? – or, Daisy Mae in Hollywood – or, Country Girl Glam – or Head over High Heels?

So…For readers, this gorgeous coffee table book is truly a trip down memory lane just watching her evolve through the storied pictures.

Her first words…

“Clothes are like songs. Just as hearing certain music brings back particular memories, so it is with certain outfits.”

And…Off we go. Turning pages and being mesmerized by her. (And speaking of turning pages…it was so readable, I couldn’t put it down!)

“I just wanted to be different. I wanted to be seen.”

Well…Look at her now. Different. Seen. Definitely not invisible!

It is a bit memoir that isn’t typical storytelling because we are invited in to see her through the ages via pictures and words…

And…You (the fan-reader or soon to become one) are learning everything you want to know about her.

And…As we come to see, pictures can tell a story, just as much as words do.

Which…Makes this book quite the journey. From mountain girl who desired to be noticed, to young woman, to icon who could sparkle as much as she wanted.

And…As readers, hanging out in her closet, we are given the most intimate details of her life.

So…Having travelled this visual journey, it isn’t difficult to say…

Dolly Parton, is a true celebration of life. Many different outfits at a time.

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐
Genre ~ fashion
Publication date ~ October 17, 2023
Est page Count ~ 335 (10 chapters)
Audio length ~ 4 hours 21 minutes
Narrators ~ Dolly Parton, Holly George-Warren - contributor, Rebecca Seaver - curator
Featuring ~ interview format with some songs

There's no doubt Dolly is an icon and a beautiful soul. A voice you'd recognize anywhere. I love that when people tried to change her she chose to stay true to herself.

We're taken through interviews about the various outfits she's worn throughout her decades long career. We hear from stylists that explain what a true delight she is to work with.

My daughter and I visited Dollywood a couple years ago, but unfortunately we did not get a glimpse of Dolly, which is super sad. I have no doubt if approached she'd be friendly and welcoming.

I give it 3 stars because I thought I was getting a memoir and I feel like I missed out by listening since there are 450 photos in the print version that showed her love of rhinestones, big wigs, and the colors pink and white..

Narration notes:
The interview format was performed conversationally. There were clips of Dolly singing that added a little extra to the story. I love her giggle, too.

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

[Phoenix Perpetuale · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a pleasure to listen to Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones by Dolly Parton and others. There is an autobiography. Here, the listener could also hear her songs. It is written with the help of other people who have worked with Dolly, and they also comment on their time with Dolly while working with her.

[Kelly (and the Book Boar) · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Dolly herself always said . . .



This is all about Dolly’s signature style (which she happily admits was inspired by the “Town Tramp” when she was a little girl).

If you follow me you know I’ve started listening to audiobook memoirs while walking. My turn at the library came up for this one when it was still pleasant outside and I was making my way to and from the park with a walking trail a couple miles away from my house. I could listen to Dolly forever and easily get a minimum of five miles in anytime she’s in my ear.

Every Star.

[Cindy Coats · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ALC copy of this book from the publisher.

Honestly I would read a book about paint drying if Dolly wrote it, angel queen book goddess. I never would have guessed i would read a book about rhinestones.

If you are a Dolly fan, read it. If you aren’t, what’s wrong with you.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Top 5 Dolly Parton Songs

1. Hard Candy Christmas
2. Here You Come Again
3. I Will Always Love You
4. Jolene
5. Islands in the Stream

Honorable Mentions

1. 9 to 5
2. Tennessee Homesick Blues

What better way to start off 2024 than with Dolly Parton.

I love Dolly like most people. I don't really trust people who don't like Dolly. She's been an icon not only my whole life but my parents whole life too. I don't know all that much about her life but I do plan on reading either her memoir or a biography about her eventually.

This is not a book about her life...or is it?

This is a coffee table book about her style. She talks about her style as a child ( her infamous coat of many colors) through all her tour, album, movies and award show costumes. Dolly Parton has a style unlike anyone else. Dolly is Dolly and we love it. She dresses sexy but not sexual if that makes any sense.

If you like Dolly Parton or just like style look books than I recommend you pick this book up. Its a quick read and the pictures of her clothes are beautiful.

Dolly's the best!

[Gigi Ropp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every little taste I get of Dolly makes me love her more and this is no exception! I listened to the audiobook and between the snippets of songs, the praise from many people she has worked with, and her sweet and hilarious stories, it was love.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 million rhinestoned stars ✨

[♥Milica♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dolly Parton our international treasure <3 Had a great time listening to the audio, it's narrated by Dolly and some of the people who worked with her. I wish I had the ebook or physical for the pictures though, but rest assured I will be getting it!!!

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Dolly, ok, let's start with that, I love her songs, her style, her wit, her generosity and self-depricating humour. She's just the best.
I listened to Behind The Seams and it's just lovely. It's like sitting in a comfy chair and having a chat with Dolly as you'd with your best friend. Hardcover is beautifully illustrated and it's great to see all the outfits that Dolly mentions.
If you love Dolly, if you love country music, if you love fashion, that book is a must read. And audiobook is a great addition.

[R.J. Sorrento · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does it get any better than Dolly Parton? She seems like one of the few genuine celebrities who uses her power for good and has foregone billionaire status to donate and create many charities and foundations instead, from the Imagination Library to environmental work.

Behind the Seams focuses on Parton’s unique and influential fashion and the many people who contributed to her look, but it’s also about her life, music, and small beginnings in the Great Smoky Mountains.

The audiobook was a joy, and with its interview format it feels like listening to a friendly conversation rather than a memoir. The accompanying pdf document is quite generous at over 100 pages complete with full color photographs and notes about her fashion through the years.

Highly recommend this to Dolly Parton fans, readers who love fashion, and anyone curious about the icon herself.
Thank you to LibroFM for the ALC.

[Jenn ~ Smalltown Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this on audiobook and it was just like getting to listen to an interview. Dolly spoke conversationally and there are song clips and various speakers. It was a great listen and a short one! The physical book itself is gorgeous. If you love Dolly or have a special interest in fashion, this is the book for you. I picked it up solely for Dolly.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredible book. The photographs are astounding, capturing incredible details. I love Dolly and I love fancy clothes; this book was a perfect weekend read.

[Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet collection and peek into Dolly Parton's closet. This book is a must have. The pictures are gorgeous and it's fun going back to see how her look has changed throughout the years.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like Dolly Parton. I am not a country music fan but I have always admired her.

This was not a traditional memoir. She was asked questions about her clothes, hair, makeup, etc., and she answered them throughout this book. Other people in her life also chimed in on the same questions. I liked the way she stayed true to who she was, as well as who she wanted to be. She didn't compromise on anything that didn't feel right to her. And in her bright light she has succeeded while being steadfast in her own journey.

She was sweet and personable. I enjoyed listening to the audio. So 4 stars.

[Liberty {LittyLibby} · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful. It's also lovely on audio because I just love Dolly's voice talking to me, telling her stories.
It includes interviews with her makeup artists, hair stylists, costume designers and makers, and Dolly herself reminiscing about her style as it's progressed over the years. She talks about her favorite iconic outfits and gives credit to the creative people she's worked with who have understood her vision to be that Backwoods Barbie we all know and love. My favorite parts were the details about her hair, her choice to start using wigs, and her stylists' behind the scenes on wig styling and care. Dolly has at least 17 wigs to choose from for each of her appearances, each styled for that one appearance and taking 3 to 6 hours each to prepare for her.
To me, Dolly's voice is like Home. She is tender and fierce, soft and strong. She uses all that money she has to spread love to everyone she can. I adore her, and this book was a delight, as is everything she touches.

[Natalie Meagan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a charming read, especially if you like Dolly already.

The book itself was a little different than I expected, not better or worse, just different. It featured more interviews than a memoir narrative structure. I could tell that the questions had been added in after the fact because the flow felt clunky but I really liked the insights and hearing Dolly’s sweet, familiar, southern voice telling her stories as well as the clips of songs and style moments from her career.

The word that keeps coming back to is “charming.”

[Kathy (Bermudaonion) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Dolly Parton’s even though I don’t really care for her music so I decided to give BEHIND THE SEAMS a listen. Most of the book is an interview with Dolly with questions centered around outfits she wore at different times. There are also a few highlights from some of the clothing designers she’s worked with through the years. I enjoyed listening to this book - it gave me a feel for the woman as well as the entertainer - because I felt hearing Dolly’s voice added enhanced the interview. I’d like to flip through a copy of the print version since it’s filled with photographs. This is the perfect book for Dolly fans!

[Alison is probably reading smut · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not too much to rate in regards with writing, because it wasn't a full length book but rather a history of photographs of past outfits, but I absolutely loved getting to learn some of the "behind the seams" of all of Dolly's famous and personal favorite outfits! This book was extremely well put together from start to finish and had the cutest cover and chapter pages I've ever seen! You can really tell how much time and effort was put into this creating this book and I would absolutely love to read more like it!

[LeeAnna Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first time I ever saw Dolly and heard her sing was on the Porter Wagoner Show in the mid '60s. Dolly did a spot on the program each week for Duz Detergent, the laundry soap with a free towel in the box. Dolly would pull the towel out of the box and exclaim, "Looky here, Porter!" And of course, I LOVED her outfits and hair. Dolly Parton Behind the Seams offers fans a retrospective of Dolly's unique style. Readers learn about her designers and the history of her amazing wardrobe. The photographs are in gorgeous color and the narrative is interesting, chock full of Dolly trivia. I love Dolly for her amazing charitable works, especially Imagination Library which has placed over two million books in the hands of children, ages birth to five years old! All these years post-Porter Wagoner, Dolly is going stronger than ever!

[Summer McFadden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Dolly so much 😭😭😭😭😩

[Chintal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean cmon. An icon doing icon SHIT.

[Tommy S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book, but not which I expected...

[Jodie Bermingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

just when I thought I couldn't love her more, she is so endearing and genuine and her whole aura is inspiring and infectious, they could never make me hate Dolly !!

[Suzzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and unapologetically Dolly!

[Natalie J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probs would have been better to see what clothes they were talking about but idc Dolly is nice to listen to 🙂‍↕️

[#AskMissPatience · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dolly Parton is such a gem. Lighthearted. Thoughtful. Interesting details about her progression as a fashion disrupter. Borrowed Behind the Seams from the library on audio and Kindle to enjoy during a renovation project and not miss out on the pictures during downtime via Kindle.

Comprised of interviews, the audio set up reminds me of David Goggins Can’t Hurt Me on audio. Unlike the print, audio is completed with podcast style Q&A. Behind the Seam gives the same hang out style dialogue. And some interviews of hair and dress designers. Which can be seen in the print and pictures version, too.

If you’re looking for a fun jaunt down memory lane of Ms Parton’s journey this is a great text to add to the list.

After tackling My Name is Barbra lumping an entire career in a single memoir that’s 48 hours on audio, and at times political promotion mixed with contraction. Behind the Seams is a refreshing shift through engagement of Ms Parton’s story revolving around her humble beginnings of creating her own clothes to her why for the unique career of outfits.

The audio is about five hours and the print takes a while because of the need to stop and check out the intricate outfits and costumes. Revisit quotes and or highlights about the photos. Delightful.

In a world where we can be anyone, be more like Dolly. Be different. Yourself. Outside the box. Determined. Kind. Thoughtful. Hard working. Creative. The list goes on and on with ways to win in life modeling ideals by this lovely lady’s example.

Dolly Parton is a musical and movie sweetheart amongst a sea of the sometimes pretentious mainstream music and movie industry folk.

If you’d like a light hearted walk down decades of iconic trends and reminders of fun times in show business this might be your next pick.

Many times this listen and read left me smiling recollecting my own memories. Since I’ve grown up with Dolly Parton my whole life enjoy revisiting her career and all it encompasses through fashion.

Fun fun fun ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Ashley G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The audio version of this was outstanding, but you really can't appreciate this without the beautiful photos in the hardcopy. In this instance I recommend reading both

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 5 out of 5]

To thine oneself be true, could aptly sum up this excellent audiobook celebrating Dolly Parton's iconic and timeless style. Narrated by the icon herself, Behind the Seams takes readers on a journey through Dolly's early style, makeup, fashion, wigs, and more. Interspersed throughout the interviews are song clips and interviews with some of the designers and stylists who have helped showcase Dolly’s unique and unforgettable vision. From the Country Music Awards, The Porter Wagoner Show, album covers, Studio 54, and The Playboy cover – each outfit has a story to tell. Dolly Parton’s style has evolved over the years, but has always been flashy, busty, unique, and glitzy; just like the legend herself. Part memoir, part fashion manifesto, part archive; Behind the Seams is filled with humor, confidence, candor. This audiobook deserves all the rhinestone stars it can get.