NEW YORK – Bob Mackie, the celebrated costume and fashion designer who transformed Hollywood glamour with daring, unforgettable looks, died Monday at 87. His signature creations ranged from Carol Burnett’s famously outrageous outfits to the bold, revealing costumes worn by Cher.
“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,” a statement shared on his social media accounts said. “His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”
Known as the “Designer to the Stars,” Mackie earned nine Emmy Awards and a Tony Award, along with three Oscar nominations. One nomination recognized his work on Barbra Streisand’s Funny Lady, where she appeared in a striking sheer batwing gown. Mackie was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 2002.
His celebrated client list included Madonna, Barbra Streisand, Sharon Stone, Diana Ross and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, while he also created stage costumes for Pink. Mackie’s work reached an iconic moment when Marilyn Monroe sang a breathy, seductive “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at a fundraiser for Kennedy and the Democratic National Committee, wearing the sheer, beaded gown he had designed.
