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“Dress You Up” is a vibrant, fun, and fashion-forward pop song by Madonna, released in July 1985 as the final single from her second studio album, Like a Virgin (1984). Written by Andrea LaRusso and Peggy Stanziale, the track stands out for its playful lyrics and infectious energy, encapsulating Madonna’s bold, stylish persona during the mid-1980s. The song became a commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a place as one of her enduring hits.

Madonna Dress You Up Single Cover

The song was a last-minute addition to Like a Virgin and was penned by songwriters Andrea LaRusso and Peggy Stanziale. When Madonna and her team heard the demo, they quickly recognized its potential as a standout track. The production, handled by Nile Rodgers, emphasized the song’s upbeat, danceable quality, perfectly aligning with the album’s pop aesthetic.

“Dress You Up” was conceived as a celebration of fashion, romance, and sensuality, themes that resonated strongly with Madonna’s image and artistic vision during this period. The lyrics of “Dress You Up” use clothing as a metaphor for intimacy and affection, with Madonna offering to “dress you up in my love.” “Dress You Up” is an upbeat dance-pop track with a driving rhythm and shimmering production. It features a funky guitar riff by Nile Rodgers, adding a touch of disco-inspired flair. Madonna’s vocal delivery is lively and spirited, emphasizing the playful nature of the lyrics.

“Dress You Up” was a commercial hit, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and charting in the top 10 in several other countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the UK, it reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart, continuing Madonna’s streak of successful singles.

Madonna - Dress You Up

Although “Dress You Up” did not have an official standalone music video, the live performance in Detroit from Madonna’s “The Virgin Tour” (April – June 1985) was used as the official music video.

“Dress You Up” was one of several Madonna songs targeted by the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC) in the 1980s. The group labeled the track as “suggestive” due to its metaphorical lyrics, placing it on the infamous “Filthy Fifteen” list. This controversy only added to the song’s visibility and Madonna’s image as a provocateur and cultural disruptor.

Madonna – Dress You Up – Lyrics