Dolly Parton Says She Has ‘To Be Ambulance-Ready at All Times’


Dolly Parton is committed to her aesthetic. In a recent interview with RuPaul, the two stars talked about the extensive time and energy that goes into maintaining their carefully crafted looks.

For Parton, she’s always dolled up in glittering outfits complete with high heels and a wig. For RuPaul, it’s the same when he’s in drag, but he also is fashion-forward in his out-of-drag looks.

Iconic singer Dolly Parton has unveiled the reason behind her perpetually polished appearance, sharing that she prioritizes being “ambulance-ready at all times” due to potential emergencies. During an insightful conversation with RuPaul for a digital Marie Claire cover story, the legendary Jolene singer shed light on her beauty philosophy, rooted in preparedness.

Ready for Anything

Parton, now 74 years old, emphasized the importance of remaining prepared for unexpected situations. Her strategy involves staying street-ready, which she humorously described as being perpetually ready for any scenario.

“I have to always stay ready – street ready, I always say… I have to keep my makeup on and keep my hair done. Like, when I’m in LA – if it’s going to earthquake, if we get an earthquake, I’m not running out in the street looking like you look now.”

The singer’s reasoning behind this philosophy is grounded in her concern for her well-being, particularly during emergencies.

“I have to be ambulance-ready at all times, if I get sick or something.”

Function and Fashion

Parton also delved into her choice of footwear, revealing her penchant for high heels. However, her reasoning extends beyond aesthetics. She shared that her everyday heels are chosen for their practicality – allowing her to access high cabinets effortlessly.

“I actually do wear high heels most of the time… I have to wear heels in order to reach my cabinets.”

Yet, her fondness for high heels transcends utility. Parton confessed that she derives joy from wearing them and that they contribute to her sense of identity.

“But I can come down, though… I’m comfortable in my own skin; I’m comfortable with my image. I dress for myself more than I do for somebody else.”

Emergency Beauty Routine

This isn’t the first time Parton has unveiled her emergency-oriented beauty approach. In a June 2019 interview with The New York Times, she shared her unconventional nighttime beauty routine. Parton admitted to sleeping in her makeup, a practice borne from her “you never know if you’re going to wreck the bus” mentality.

“You never know if you’re going to wreck the bus, you never know if you’re going to be somewhere in a hotel and there’s going to be a fire… So I leave my makeup on at night and clean my face in the morning.”

Dolly Parton’s commitment to being “ambulance-ready” reflects her practical yet spirited approach to life. Her iconic style is deeply intertwined with her desire to remain prepared for whatever challenges may arise.

As she continues to inspire with her music and charisma, Parton’s candid insights into her beauty and lifestyle choices provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of a beloved legend.