Bob Mackie’s Designs, From Cher to Taylor Swift, Head to Auction
A legacy of glamour and stage presence is set to be preserved — and made available to collectors — as iconic designs by Bob Mackie, the celebrated fashion and costume designer, are going up for auction this December. Mackie, renowned for his work with music legends like Cher, Tina Turner, and Madonna, recently reflected on his illustrious career and a surprising recent connection to pop superstar Taylor Swift.
Mackie’s creations have defined generations of performance fashion, gracing red carpets and concert stages alike. In a recent interview with “CBS Mornings†on Tuesday, the designer revealed a recent, unexpected collaboration. Swift incorporated one of Mackie’s vintage pieces into the imagery for her album, “The Life of a Showgirl.†“it was kind of a surprise as I didn’t know she had those clothes,†Mackie admitted,explaining that the garment was borrowed from a las Vegas casino where it had been stored for over four decades.
Pro tip: Mackie’s designs often end up in las Vegas casinos after their initial stage life, offering a second life for these glamorous pieces.
The dress itself dates back to the 1980s, originally designed for a Las Vegas show. Mackie’s creative process extends beyond sketching; he emphasizes the importance of observing performers in action. “My philosophy is watch what they do, how they work on stage, how they walk, how they sit,†he explained. “it is indeed very vital. You can’t just put a dress on anybody.â€
This observational approach was especially crucial in his collaborations with Turner and Cher. Mackie recalled the unique dynamic with each artist. “You just don’t know until you meet them and watch them perform that they’re that woman, that kind of a girl,†he said. He noted that Cher was “never intimidated by one thing I ever put on her — ever,†while Turner “always knew what she wanted.†He recounted a typical exchange with Turner: “She would say, ‘oh that’s too old fashioned, I can’t wear that.’ then she would put it on and go, ‘oh. Well, that’s pretty good.’â€
Reader question: How did Bob Mackie approach designing for such different personalities as Cher and Tina turner? He focused on observing their individual stage presence and letting their personalities guide the design process.
Singer and actress Cher poses for a photo session in a Bob Mackie blouse on March 21, 1977 in Los Angeles, California. (Harry Langdon / Getty Images)
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Bob Mackie designs worn by Cher and Tina Turner are seen on display at Icons & Idols: Hollywood & Street Contemporary Art Auction preview with Julien’s Auctions at The Standard Oil Building Beverly Hills on Nov. 12, 2018. (Sarah Morris / Getty Images)
Now, a selection of these historically important designs are being offered to the public through auction. Mackie expressed a pragmatic attitude toward parting with his creations.“it’s OK. I don’t have it at home waiting for me. It’s just there and the girls kind of like seeing somebody else wear it. That’s fun,†he said.
Dresses worn by The Supremes in 1969, designed by Bob mackie, are on display at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. (The Washington Post)
The auction promises a unique opportunity for collectors and fans to own a piece of entertainment history, continuing the legacy of Bob Mackie’s designs beyond the stage and screen.
