Bob Mackie, the acclaimed fashion designer known for dressing entertainment’s biggest names, has passed away at 87. A statement posted to his Instagram account confirmed his death, though no cause was disclosed. The designer, who earned the nicknames “Sultan of Sequins” and “Guru of Glitter,” spent six decades creating elaborate theatrical costumes that became synonymous with glamour and spectacle.
Mackie’s career spanned multiple decades and mediums, beginning with his work on The Carol Burnett Show, where he produced approximately 60 costumes weekly. His most famous partnership began in the 1970s when he started designing for Cher, creating iconic looks for television performances, the Met Gala, and concert tours. Beyond Cher, Mackie dressed numerous entertainment legends including Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, Bette Midler, and Carol Burnett. He even designed limited-edition Barbie dolls for Mattel, advocating for diverse representation among the collectibles.
Throughout his career, Mackie received substantial recognition for his contributions to costume design. He earned nine Emmy Awards from over 30 nominations and won a Tony Award in 2019 for his work on The Cher Show musical. The Council of Fashion Designers of America honored him with a lifetime achievement award in 2019, and he was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002. Modern pop stars including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Miley Cyrus have worn archival Mackie designs, ensuring his influence continues in contemporary fashion.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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