Abstract | This work deals with the static and dynamic stability analysis of imperfect partially-sway frames with non-uniform columns. The examined two-bar frames are elastically supported and subjected to an eccentrically vertical load at their joint. Through a linear stability analysis, the effect of the taper ratio of the column cross-section on the buckling capacity of the partially-sway frame is thoroughly discussed. Using a non-linear method an accurate formula has been established for determining the exact asymmetric bifurcation point associated with the maximum load carrying capacity. These findings have been re-derived more readily using Catastrophe Theory (CT) and considering the frame as a one degree-of-freedom (1-DOF) system through an efficient technique. A local analysis allows us to classify, after reduction, the total potential energy (TPE) function of the system to one of the seven elementary Thom׳s catastrophes (with known properties) and to obtain static and dynamic singularity as well as bifurcational sets. It has been found that geometrical and loading imperfections, which are always present in structural engineering problems, have a significant effect on the dynamic buckling loads. The efficiency of the present approach is illustrated via several examples, while results from finite element analyses are in good agreement with the analytical solution presented herein.