Bob Mackie, the famed “Sultan of Sequins,” died at 87, leaving behind a legacy of iconic costumes for stars like Cher, Tina Turner and Elton John. His glittering designs reshaped red‑carpet fashion for decades.

  • Bob Mackie dies at age 87
  • Creator of Cher’s 1986 Oscar “revenge” dress
  • Designed for Elton John, Miley Cyrus, Pink and many more

Bob Mackie: The Sparkling Architect of Stage Glamour

American costume legend Bob Mackie, known worldwide as the “Sultan of Sequins,” passed away on Monday at the age of 87. His illustrious career earned a Tony Award, nine Emmys and three Oscar nominations.

From Cher’s daring 1986 Oscar “revenge” outfit to Tina Turner’s iconic winged costume, Mackie’s creations were not just garments but cultural moments that redefined celebrity style.

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In the 2024 documentary “Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion,” Cher explains how Mackie’s daring designs made her the first woman to expose her belly button on U.S. television, a bold statement that shocked the 1980s audience.

Elton John praised Mackie on Instagram, saying, “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.”

Pop stars Pink, Miley Cyrus, and newcomer Sabrina Carpenter have also worn Mackie’s pieces on stage and at award shows, proving his relevance across generations.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Mackie’s death marks the end of an era in Hollywood glamour, yet his influence sets a benchmark for contemporary designers and keeps the sparkle alive in modern pop culture.

“Bob Mackie turned costume design into a storytelling medium where every sequin tells a story.” – Fashion historian Laura Chen
Did You Know?: Early in his career, Mackie sketched the dress Marilyn Monroe wore for her famous “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” performance in 1962.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which major stars did Bob Mackie design for?

A: Cher, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton, Elton John, Pink, Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter and many others.

Q2: Did Mackie ever consider retirement?

A: No. In a 2018 interview he said, “I think I’m the oldest living designer in Hollywood… I hope not.”