Bob Mackie, Iconic Costume Designer Who Dressed Stars, Dies at 87
A tribute to the late designer highlights seven signature looks that defined his sequins-heavy style and shaped decades of celebrity fashion.
- On Monday, legendary fashion designer Bob Mackie died at age 87. Known for his signature bedazzled and feathered couture, he transformed Hollywood's biggest stars over a six-decade career.
- Dubbed the "Sultan of Sequins," Mackie built his reputation on theatricality and daring embellishments. He began his career sketching for costume designer Jean Louis, drawing inspiration from theater magazines rather than fashion publications.
- At age 22, Mackie designed Marilyn Monroe's 1962 "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" dress, a slinky sequined gown. He later created Cher's 1986 black-feathered "revenge dress" for the Academy Awards, which Mackie said was "a crazy getup for attention."
- Stars including Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, and Sabrina Carpenter have honored his legacy by wearing vintage Mackie pieces on recent red carpets. Cyrus performed in shimmering silver at the 2024 Grammy Awards, paying tribute to the designer.
- Eight Emmy Awards mark his technical mastery throughout his career. Museum curator Kate Bailey noted his work remains "a definitive diva look for so many" and "continues to inspire artists and designers to this day.
26 Articles
26 Articles
Costume and fashion designer Bob Mackie, whose creations were worn by Cher, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton and Elton John, has died at the age of 87. "There will be some beautifully dressed angels up there now," were the words with which Pink bid farewell to the legend.
Iconic Bob Mackie Fashions Worn by Musicians, From Cher & Elton John to Beyoncé & Sabrina Carpenter: Photos
“Rajah of Rhinestones” and “Sultan of Sequins” were the two titles given to the legendary nine-time Emmy-winning and three-time Oscar-nominated costume designer Bob Mackie, and they couldn’t have been more fitting. Recognized for being behind some of the most sequined and sparkling outfits in Hollywood, Mackie — who died Monday (Sept. 14) at age 87 — has left an unforgettable mark on pop culture with his timeless work. Mackie’s career as a costu…
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