Bob Mackie, the acclaimed fashion designer known for his impact on Hollywood style in the 1970s, passed away on Monday at the age of 87. A statement on his social media lauded his life as an accomplished Fashion and Costume Designer, a dream he had always pursued. His designs, celebrated for their beauty, will continue to inspire.
Known as the “Designer to the Stars,” Mackie earned nine Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and was nominated for three Oscars. Among these, he received recognition for Barbra Streisand’s gown in the film “Funny Lady.” In 2002, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences inducted him into its Hall of Fame.
Mackie’s client list included iconic names such as Madonna, Barbra Streisand, Sharon Stone, Diana Ross, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. He also crafted concert attire for performers like Pink. One of his renowned designs featured Marilyn Monroe in a sheer, beaded gown for her memorable “Happy Birthday” performance for President John F. Kennedy.
Mackie’s influence remains visible in the fashion choices of celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift. His archival pieces continue to be worn by stars, with Zendaya donning a Mackie creation to honor Cher at the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony. When Taylor Swift aimed for a showgirl aesthetic on her 2025 album cover, she relied on Mackie’s original designs.
His artistic approach involved sequins and embellishments, earning him various nicknames like the Sultan of Sequins. Mackie firmly believed in enhancing appearances without changing inherent styles.
“You don’t try to change anybody, you try to make them look better than ever,” Mackie shared with The Associated Press in 2018.
Tributes for Mackie arrived from designers and celebrities who cherished wearing his creations. Kristin Chenoweth referred to him as a “legend,” and Isaac Mizrahi expressed his heartbreak. Alyssa Milano called him “one of the best that ever was,” while Mikhaila “Coco” Rocha praised his clothing’s wit and fantasy.
On Broadway, Mackie contributed to productions like “On the Town” and “Moon Over Buffalo.” He clothed stars such as Debbie Reynolds, Liza Minnelli, and the cast of “The Cher Show,” which earned him a Tony Award.
Originally from Southern California, Mackie developed a love for Hollywood glamour through Technicolor musicals. He harbored fantasies of designing elaborate costumes for his mother and sister. His education included advertising and costume design studies. Mackie’s interest in glitzy wardrobes of variety show stars in the 1950s and ’60s propelled him into the world of costume design.
He began working with renowned designer Edith Head before securing a role on “The Carol Burnett Show.” His collaboration with Burnett created unforgettable characters, including a take on Scarlett O’Hara with the iconic curtain dress, which now resides in the Smithsonian.
Mackie’s work on “The Sonny and Cher Show” followed as Cher appreciated his talent. This led to even bolder creations for her movie appearances, including her celebrated Oscar outfits. At the 1974 Met Gala, Mackie and Cher made headlines with a sheer beaded gown, featured on the cover of Time magazine.
While Mackie appreciated the popularity of naked dresses, he critiqued the lack of originality in more recent fashion trends. He expressed his disappointment with the repetitive styles seen at events like The Met Ball.
Mackie also developed a unique line of Barbie dolls for Mattel, distinguished by various face sculpts, body types, and storylines. Unlike conventional dolls, his creations embraced fantasy and imagination.
A recipient of the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s lifetime achievement award, Mackie’s legacy includes the documentary “Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion.” His creations, like a 1975 Cher dress, remain highly valued, fetching significant amounts at auctions.
Mackie’s personal life had its share of challenges. His son, Robert Gordon Mackie Jr., passed away from AIDS, and his longtime partner, Ray Aghayan, also preceded him in death. Mackie had a lasting impact on fashion, aspiring to create looks that captivate and entertain.
“It’s all about looking good and living your fantasies,” he shared.
Even in his later years, Mackie noted a lack of excitement and innovation in contemporary fashion, reminiscing about the remarkable influence of his era.
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