Bob Mackie, the iconic fashion designer known for his spectacular designs that epitomized Hollywood glamour, has died at 87. He passed away in Palm Springs, California, due to pneumonia, as confirmed by his publicist Jenelle Hamilton.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today,” read a post on his social media account. “He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a Fashion and Costume Designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”
Mackie was born in Monterey Park, California. He became captivated by Hollywood glamour as a child, inspired by Technicolor musicals. He would sketch elaborate costumes for his family and participated in costume and set design for high school plays. Mackie studied advertising, illustration, and costume design at Pasadena City College and LA’s Chouinard Art Institute.
Career Highlights and Influences
In 1966, Mackie created a new look for actress Mitzi Gaynor, marking a turning point in his career. This success attracted the attention of Carol Burnett, leading him to design wardrobes for “The Carol Burnett Show.” Their collaboration included iconic characters such as Nora Desmond and Starlet O’Hara.
Mackie continued his TV work on “The Sonny and Cher Show.” His creations for Cher, including her leopard-print jumpsuit as the character Laverne, were particularly notable. Mackie and Cher’s collaboration extended to red carpet appearances and the Academy Awards, where she wore his daring, beaded designs.
At the 1974 Met Gala, Mackie accompanied Cher, who wore a sheer, beaded gown with feathered details that became famous. His approach to design involved observing how stars performed on stage to make them look their best.
Achievements and Legacy
Known as the “Designer to the Stars,” Mackie won nine Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and received three Oscar nominations. He was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ Hall of Fame in 2002. Mackie dressed many stars, including Madonna, Barbra Streisand, and Diana Ross, and his influence continues to be seen today in fashion worn by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Zendaya.
Mackie also made his mark on Broadway, designing costumes for shows like “On the Town” and “The Cher Show,” the latter earning him a Tony Award. He ventured into retail with a ready-to-wear line in the 1980s, eventually showcasing at New York Fashion Week, and partnered with QVC.
Bob Mackie was married to showgirl Lulu Porter from 1960 to 1963. Their son, makeup artist Robert Gordon Mackie Jr., passed away from AIDS. Mackie’s longtime partner, costume designer Ray Aghayan, died in 2011. Mackie is survived by his granddaughter Alyssa Townsend, and his granddaughters Kyla and Keira Townsend, and Porter.