Madonna, born Madonna Louise Ciccone in 1958, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur widely regarded as the “Queen of Pop” and one of the most influential figures in modern music. Rising to fame in the early 1980s with hits like “Holiday,” “Like A Virgin,” and “Material Girl,” she quickly established herself as a boundary-pushing artist who combined infectious pop with provocative imagery and bold reinvention. Across a career spanning four decades, Madonna has sold hundreds of millions of records worldwide, earned multiple Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Beyond her chart-topping hits, she is celebrated for redefining the role of women in popular music, shaping fashion and culture, and consistently challenging social and artistic norms.
Her ability to evolve with each era has secured her legacy as not only a pop icon but also a cultural trailblazer whose influence extends far beyond music.
Madonna’s 1985 single “Dress You Up” is a vibrant pop anthem that captures the playful, fashion-forward energy that defined much of her early career. Released as the final single from her Like A Virgin album, the track combines a funky guitar groove with Madonna’s confident, flirty vocals, creating a song that’s as stylish as it is catchy. With lyrics comparing love to dressing someone in luxury, it became a fan favorite and a Top 10 hit in the U.S. The single also sparked controversy when it was listed on the Parents Music Resource Center’s infamous “Filthy Fifteen,” only adding to its pop culture impact. Decades later, “Dress You Up” remains a fun, spirited reminder of Madonna’s knack for mixing attitude, fashion, and irresistible pop hooks.
The song peaked at No. 05 in the UK singles chart on 14th December 1985.
| A-Side | Dress You Up [3:48] [Peggy Stanziale, Andrea Larusso] Produced By Nile Rodgers |
| B-Side | I Know It [3:45] [Madonna] Produced By Reggie Lewis |
| Genre | Electronic, Pop, SynthPop |
| Release Date | November 1985 |
| Label | SIRE |
| Catalogue Number | W 8848 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 7th December 1985 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 05 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 08 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [8 Weeks] – 7th December 1985 – 25th January 1986 |
| 12-[5]-8-9-7-6-21-32 |
Officially Released Versions
Dress You Up [Single Version] [3:48]
Dress You Up [The 12″ Formal Mix] [6:16]
Dress You Up [The Casual Instrumental Mix] [4:37]
Versions On Spotify
If you have an active Spotify account you will be able to play the complete versions of the songs below. If you don’t have an account, you will only be able to hear a 30-second sample.
Lyrics
You’ve got style, that’s what all the girls say
Satin sheets and luxuries so fine
All your suits are custom made in London
But I’ve got something that you’ll really like
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over, all over
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over your body
Feel the silky touch of my caresses
They will keep you looking so brand new
Let me cover you with velvet kisses
I’ll create a look that’s made for you
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over, all over
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over your body
Gonna dress you up in my love, in my love
(All over your body) All over your body
In my love (All over, all over)
From your head down to your toes
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over, all over
Gonna dress you up in my love
All over your body
Gonna dress you up in my love, in my love
(All over your body) All over your body
In my love (All over, all over)
From your head down to your toes
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
Gonna dress you up in my love
(All over, all over)
Dress you up in my love
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
In my love
(All over your body)
All over your body
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
Gonna dress you up in my love
(All over, all over)
Dress you up in my love
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
In my love
(All over your body)
Oh, yeah, love me, boy
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
All over your body
(All over, all over)
From your head down to your toes
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
Gonna dress you up in my love
(All over your body)
Dress you up in my love
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
In my love
(All over, all over)
Oh, yeah, love me, boy
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
(All over your body)
(Gonna dress you up in my love)
(All over, all over)
Written By Peggy Stanziale, Andrea Larusso
