Bob Mackie, the legendary designer known for his extravagant red carpet and stage costumes for stars like Cher, has passed away at age 87.

Bob Mackie, a renowned fashion and costume designer celebrated for his decades of work with Hollywood’s biggest stars, has died at the age of 87. His team announced the news on his official Instagram account on Monday, stating that he passed away while living his dream of being a designer. Mackie, a Los Angeles native, built a career spanning 60 years, becoming a household name for his bold, ornate creations.

A Prolific Career in Hollywood

Mackie’s career began in costume design, where he worked under designers such as Jean Louis and Edith Head. Early in his career, he sketched the famous sheer blush lace and feather gown worn by Marilyn Monroe for her "Happy Birthday Mr. President" performance in 1962. He later became a staple of television costume design, notably working on "The Carol Burnett Show," where he reportedly designed 60 to 70 costumes per week for 11 years.

The Partnership with Cher

Mackie is perhaps best known for his long-standing collaboration with Cher, which began in 1962 after they met on "The Carol Burnett Show." He designed numerous iconic looks for the singer, including the sheer "naked dress" worn to the 1974 Met Gala, which is credited with influencing a new genre of red carpet fashion. Their partnership spanned decades, with Cher once stating that without Mackie, she would have been "a peacock without feathers."

Enduring Legacy and Archival Influence

Beyond Cher, Mackie designed for a wide range of performers, including Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Elton John, Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, and Whitney Houston. His work remains relevant to contemporary stars; celebrities such as Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, and Taylor Swift have worn his archival pieces. Recently, his designs have seen high interest at auction, with a bodysuit he created for Tina Turner selling for $19,200 and a Cher bodysuit fetching $57,600.