“Dressed Marilyn Monroe and Taylor Swift” ... ‘Designer to the Stars’ Bob Mackie Dies at 87

‘King of Sequins’ Bob Mackie Dies at 87 ... The ‘Legend’ Who Lit Up Everyone From Monroe to Swift Bows Out

Nine-time Emmy winner and three-time Academy Award nominee dies of pneumonia in Palm Springs

From Hollywood’s golden age to pop’s present, the sequined magician who transcended generations

Marilyn Monroe, Cher and Taylor Swift. Bob Mackie, who helped create the brightest moments of the era’s biggest stars, has died at 87. The Associated Press and other major news outlets reported on the 14th local time that “legendary designer” Mackie died of pneumonia in Palm Springs, California. A statement of mourning posted on his official social media said, “Mackie fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a ‘fashion designer’ and lived his 87 years to the fullest.”

Born in California in 1939, he grew up drawing inspiration from the glamour unique to Hollywood films. After studying at Pasadena City College and the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, he joined the team of Edith Head, the era’s leading costume designer, and honed his craft. He later began attracting industry attention as the head of costumes for the popular comedy program ‘The Carol Burnett Show’.

“Don’t try to change them; make them stand out”: The firm design philosophy behind nine Emmy wins

Known as the ‘King of Sequins’ and the ‘master of sparkle,’ his client list was a history of pop culture in its own right. Icons including Cher, Barbra Streisand and Sharon Stone wore his creations as they commanded stages and red carpets. Beyond concert costumes for Tina Turner and Pink, original Mackie pieces were used in the production of the cover for global pop star Taylor Swift’s album released last year, once again proving the timelessness of his vision.

His legacy fully lived up to the title ‘designer to the stars.’ He won nine Emmys, one Tony Award and earned three Academy Award nominations. After being inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002, he also designed dozens of ‘Barbie dolls’ representing a wide range of body types and races, leaving a deep mark on popular culture as a whole.

In a 2018 media interview, Mackie emphasized his ‘design philosophy’: “You don’t try to force someone to change; you just make them look better than they did before.” His dedication to maximizing the wearer’s individual appeal beneath the glamour will remain an enduring legacy in fashion.