Clothing in Song Titles and Lyrics: A Celebration of Fashion Across the Ages

The relationship between clothing and music is a dynamic and enduring one. Throughout history, songs have not only told stories but have also served as a medium to depict different forms of attire, often providing vivid imagery that can transport listeners to another time or place. In this article, we explore some well-known songs that feature clothing in their lyrics and titles, offering a unique perspective on fashion through the ages.

Popular Songs Featuring Clothing in Titles and Lyrics

The Girl on the Billboard by Del Reeves
The song describes a woman prominently displayed on a billboard with a simple yet striking lyric: "The Girl on the Billboard, wearing nothing but a smile and a towel in the picture on the sign on the big old highway." This song serves as a reminder of the enduring presence of clothing as a cultural icon and subject in music. Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress by The Hollies
With a title that instantly evokes a deep sense of elegance, this song by The Hollies remains an enduring classic. The black dress mentioned in the title is a striking piece that symbolizes strength, mystery, and timeless beauty. Lady in Red by Chris de Burgh
Chris de Burgh's 1986 hit features the vivid imagery of a "Lady in Red," a siren call that literally and metaphorically captures the essence of clothing as an integral part of the narrative in music. Red Dress by Ray Willis Hubbard
'Red Dress' is a straightforward description of a fashionable garment, yet it remains a powerful descriptor that has stood the test of time. The use of 'red' as a color evokes a range of emotions, from passion to danger.

Popular Lyrics Describing Clothing

Music not only features clothing in catchy titles but also delves into the details of what characters are wearing. These descriptions can paint a vivid picture and often serve as a powerful form of storytelling.

The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress

Button up your overcoat Long cool woman in a black dress Devil with a blue dress on Alice blue gown Little red hat Raspberry beret Sam, you made the pants too long These boots were made for walking Solid silver platform shoes Cha-cha heels Sex is in the heels

This song by The Hollies is a quintessential example of a song that doesn't just mention clothing but actually photographs characters in it. The details of the black dress, the raspberry beret, and the boots make the image in the listener's mind almost as clear as if it were a photograph.

Scarborough Fair

Art Garfunkel's rendition of Scarborough Fair is rooted in traditional ballad form and provides a fascinating look at daily life and clothing in medieval times through its detailed instructions on fabric and materials. Even though the clothes are described as ancient, the methodology and intent behind the garment-making are reminiscent of a craft passed down through generations.

Are you going to Scarborough Fair Parsley sage rosemary and thyme Remember me to one who lives there He once was a true love of mine Tell him to make me a cambric shirt Parsley sage rosemary and thyme Without no seams nor needle work Then he'll be a true love of mine

The song mentions creating a cambric shirt, a delicate, lightweight fabric often used in undergarments and small goods. This shows the care and dedication not just to clothing, but to fashion and hygiene in the past.

Coat of Many Colors

Dolly Parton's Tiny Dancer mentions a 'coat of many colors', a line that has become iconic. This line is not only a striking description of the garment but also a strong metaphor, representing the idea of beauty and uniqueness. In Dolly Parton's other hit, the Coat of Many Colors itself becomes a significant part of the narrative, reflecting on memory and nostalgia.

Coat of many colors
Mickey mouse dress
Wore that dress to church one time
Mommy told me if my dress ain't clean
The coat of many colors had to stay outside

The use of the coat is more than just a fashion statement; it is a symbol of pride, comfort, and a cherished memory.

Through these songs, we can see the powerful impact that clothing has on our perception of music and art. Whether it is through a catchy verse or a vivid description, clothing in songs adds an extra layer of depth and helps to create enduring images in the minds of listeners.