Bob Mackie may have left the stage, but the stars he dressed are making sure his legacy gets a very glamorous encore.
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The legendary fashion and costume designer died at 87, according to a post on his social media accounts. Mackie spent decades creating unforgettable looks for some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Cher, Diana Ross, Dolly Parton, Judy Garland and Tina Turner.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. 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,” read a post on his Instagram account. “His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”
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The news has now prompted tributes from the performers who knew Mackie, wore his creations and worked alongside him.
Cher, Elton John and Miley Cyrus remember a fashion legend
Few stars were more closely connected to Mackie than Cher. Their creative partnership lasted for decades, producing some of the singer’s most memorable looks on television, onstage and at major events.
After news of his death, Cher paid tribute on X with a message that was both heartbreaking and completely fitting for the designer.
“My dear Bob has gone up to heaven, knowing him he’s bringing sequins, beads and his sketch pad. Good night sweet prince.”
Mackie first made a major splash with Cher at the 1974 Met Gala, where she wore his now-famous sheer illusion dress covered with white feathers.
Sir Elton John also shared an emotional tribute, posting several pictures of Mackie, including one of the designer taking his measurements.
“Every time I put something on that Bob made, I felt very, very special.
“His costumes were works of art, and he will go down as one of the most legendary designers ever in Hollywood.”
Miley Cyrus remembered Mackie with a picture of herself performing “Flowers” at the 2024 Grammys, where she wore one of his designs.
“You completed me… I love you.”
Sabrina Carpenter and Pink pay tribute to Mackie
Sabrina Carpenter shared several pictures of herself wearing Mackie’s creations and described herself as devastated by his death.
“Terribly devastated, I feel so lucky to have met Bob.
“His one of a kind creations have inspired and brought so much happiness and confidence to my world, and they will continue to always. Mackie girl forever.”
Pink, who was dressed by Mackie for years, remembered more than just his extraordinary talent.
“Gutted to learn that one of my heroes has passed on. Bob Mackie, the one and only, the legend. I was so lucky to be dressed by him for so long. He was loving, wickedly funny and an absolute genius.
“He was one of one… There are going to be some fabulously dressed angels.”
Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui also paid tribute, writing, “Rest in peace to beautiful master on his craft. Thank you for all the beauty, Bob.”
Barbra Streisand, Barbara Eden and Bette Midler remember him
Mackie’s influence stretched across generations of Hollywood performers. Barbra Streisand remembered working with him on Funny Lady.
“Bob Mackie was an incredible talent. He designed one gorgeous outfit after another for me in Funny Lady. He might continue designing creations for the angels.”
Barbara Eden reflected on the feeling Mackie’s designs could create for the people wearing them.
“Bob Mackie was one of those people who knew how to make you feel like glittering magic, all you had to do was slip into one of his creations.
“Bob, your genius will continue to sparkle like the millions of beads you meticulously placed on those of us fortunate enough to have known you. I still have my gowns and treasure them as much as the day I first put them on. Rest well Bob!”
Bette Midler remembered another side of Mackie’s genius — his ability to make fashion glamorous without taking it too seriously.
“The gentle, sweet, extraordinarily talented Bob Mackie has died today. I worked with him many times and adored him. His clothes were mostly beautiful and incredibly glamorous but just as often they were hilarious; he always got the joke.”
Bob Mackie leaves behind more than unforgettable looks
Mackie’s career was built around performers who knew the value of making an entrance. His designs for stars including Cher, Diana Ross, Dolly Parton, Judy Garland and Tina Turner helped turn costumes into extensions of their personalities.
His work was often extravagant, but the reactions from the people who wore it suggest that his greatest talent went beyond sequins, feathers and rhinestones. Mackie knew how to make a performer feel confident, special and completely themselves.
Now, those performers are returning the favor by making sure the man behind some of Hollywood’s most memorable looks gets the send-off he deserves.