Hi everyone and welcome to another guest blog I’m excited to feature. Today’s post is from Adrienne at Nostalgiaville a fun 1950s party supply, clothes and memorabilia website.

Adrienne reached out looking for a place to spread her vintage blogging wings and as a newbie at one time myself I could not say no to helping out a fellow blogger with a talent for writing.

So without further adieu here is “An Ode to Patsy Cline’s Fashion” just in time for Patsy Birthday on September 8th.

Patsy Cline

The most popular female country singer in recording history

Since the 1940s, Patsy Cline has gently guided many through the tribulations of heartbreak.

Be it confusion or frustration, infatuation or rejection, Cline sweetly sang just the right things to help with whatever emotions that arose in young women’s hearts at the time – all while looking fashionable as all get out.

With a contralto croon that defined the Nashville sound and continues to inspire female vocalists in all genres today, Cline was a mid-century star until her tragic passing in 1963 at the age of 30. 

Let’s get some things straight: Patsy Cline isn’t just a woman scorned making country pop tunes. The complex vocalist proved herself a true badass at an early age.

Cline was incredibly young – in her teens – when she first secured recurring performances. Not only was she navigating the country music scene as a youngin’, she was also a woman – a major setback that came with the times. Nevertheless, Cline used her gender to her advantage – donning iconic dresses handmade by her mother for most of her career and charming the likes of more than a few men.

More proof of Cline’s badassery? The woman was hit head-on in Nashville while driving with her brother. Even still, she sang at the Grand Ole Opry shortly after the crash. Here she is with crutches at her performance.

Whereas many young women in popular culture at the time were donning applique poodles on their skirts with bobby socks and saddle shoes, Cline set the trends for women in the rising alternative pop country scene by opting for bold boots and fringe.

Cline was known for her handmade dresses, almost all of which were sewn by her mother, Hilda Hensley. Cline designed many of her dresses herself, too.

Some sketches of Patsy’s dresses mocked up by Patsy and her mother.

Fringe, fringe and more glorious fringe.

Dress made of cotton printed with whimsical images of posters which Cline wore when she performed at The Grand Ole Opry circa 1960. Part of an auction of items that sold at Christies Auction.

Here’s another roundup of Cline’s closet, which at one time was available for purchase here. The teal chiffon dress with the corset was designed for Cline by Helen Rose, a famous Hollywood designer known for her costume design. To say Cline’s attire is anything costume-y is a true crime – these outfits were masterpieces.

Cline was also lucky enough to be able to don the regal gowns of Hollywood after her success, while sticking to her roots with more conservative A-line dresses for her performances.

Patsy Cline at the Mint Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Circa 1962.

And we absolutely cannot discuss Patsy Cline fashion without showcasing this iconic dress:

Country fashion is no stranger to flamboyant adornments – check out the fringe and rodeo-themed applique on that bright red getup! Honestly… an inspiration. Rhinestones and some boots tie this sassy look together!

Gone too soon, Cline left her mark on country music – be it setting the stage for the rhinestone cowboy (and girl) style or quelling the woes of heartbroken listeners.

Thanks for the music.

Thank you for the wonderful article Adrienne and Happy Birthday Patsy!

Question Time: Are you a Patsy Cline fan? If so share your favourite song in the comments below.

FURTHER READING: Vintage Women’s History Blog Posts (Archived posts)