Renowned costume designer Bob Mackie, celebrated for his extravagant and daring fashion creations that became synonymous with celebrities like Cher and Elton John, has passed away at the age of 87. His designs shaped the iconic looks of stars for over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
A Legacy of Glamour
Mackie’s creations left a deep impact on the wardrobes of numerous celebrities. He was the creative force behind some of Cher’s most memorable looks, such as the ‘naked’ dress worn to the Met Gala in 1975, and the eye-catching midriff-baring outfit she donned for the Oscars in 1986. His designs continued to resonate with newer generations; in 2015, Kim Kardashian drew inspiration from Cher’s Met Gala dress to grace the same event.
In the realm of recent artistry, Taylor Swift featured one of Mackie’s cabaret costumes on her 12th studio album cover, while Miley Cyrus acquired a Mackie-designed tasseled mini dress worn at the Grammys in 2024.
Notable Auction Success
Mackie’s designs have achieved remarkable success at auctions. Cher’s famous “naked” bodysuit fetched a remarkable $57,600, significantly exceeding its anticipated value. Additionally, a silver and gold fringed outfit crafted for Tina Turner in 1977 sold for $19,200.
Enduring Partnerships
Mackie’s long-standing collaboration with Cher began with “The Sonny and Cher Show” in the 1960s, and he was vital to her career aesthetics for decades. Reflecting on his influence, Cher stated, “I would have been a peacock without feathers” without his designs. He also played a pivotal role in creating looks for Diana Ross on the 1973 film “Lady Sings the Blues,” earning an Oscar nomination.
His partnership with designer Jean Louis gave him the opportunity to sketch the legendary dress worn by Marilyn Monroe to serenade President John F. Kennedy in 1962. His disapproval of Kim Kardashian wearing the original to the 2022 Met Gala was famously public, asserting that Monroe was the only rightful wearer.
A Philosophy of Bold Design
Mackie’s motto was “dare to be noticed,” a philosophy clearly expressed through his work, including Elton John’s eccentric duck costume and flamboyant outfits for Cher. Turner’s dramatic “flame” dress, a symbol of rebirth after her divorce from Ike, showcased Mackie’s taste for drama and narrative. Despite their successes, tensions existed; notably, Mackie described Cher’s “If I Could Turn Back Time” outfit as “vulgar.”
Beyond the Spotlight
Expanding his influence beyond costumes, Mackie launched a fashion line in 1982, collaborated with QVC, and designed collectibles like Bob Mackie Barbie dolls. In 2009, Mackie’s creative insight was showcased as a guest judge on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” His contributions received formal recognition with the Geoffrey Beene CFDA Lifetime Achievement award in 2019 and prominence in a 2023 exhibition at the V&A in London.
Tributes from the fashion and entertainment world have poured in, celebrating Mackie’s wit and originality. Elton John recalled him as courteous and exceptional, while model Coco Rocha lauded his designs for combining wit and drama, showing his continued influence on modern fashion.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.