Bob Mackie, designer to the stars who dressed Cher and Marilyn and defined ’70s glamour, dies at 87

Bob Mackie, the renowned fashion designer who crafted the glamorous wardrobes of Hollywood icons such as Cher, Marilyn Monroe, and Cher, passed away on Monday at the age of 87. Best known as the "Designer to the Stars," Mackie's innovative and provocative designs defined the glamour of the 1970s.

Mackie's illustrious career earned him nine Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and three Oscar nominations. He was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 2002. His gowns for Madonna, Streisand, Sharon Stone, Diana Ross, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, along with concert costumes for Pink, showcased his extensive talents.

The designer's influence can be seen in the styles of modern stars like Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid. His archival pieces continue to be worn by celebrities such as Anya Taylor-Joy, Miley Cyrus, and Zendaya, who wore one of his gowns to honor Cher at the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Born and raised in Southern California, Mackie developed an early fascination with Hollywood movie glamour, inspired by Technicolor musicals. He honed his skills at Pasadena City College and the Chouinard Art Institute before working with costume designer Edith Head and eventually creating memorable costumes for Carol Burnett's "The Carol Burnett Show." His close friendship with Burnett led to their collaborative characters, such as Nora Desmond and Eunice.

Mackie's bold and daring designs, often referred to as "naked dresses," garnered both praise and criticism. While he embraced the idea of Hollywood glamour, he later expressed mixed feelings about the excessive exposure in today's fashion.