Introduction:
The fashion world has lost one of its most dazzling visionaries. Bob Mackie, the legendary designer whose extraordinary creations helped define some of the most unforgettable moments in pop culture, has died at the age of 87. Among the many stars mourning his passing is Cher, his longtime muse and one of the women most closely associated with his glittering artistic legacy.
On Monday, Sept. 14, Cher took to X to share a deeply personal farewell to the designer who helped shape her image across decades of music, television, and performance. “My dear Bob has gone up to heaven,” she wrote, imagining that even in the afterlife, Mackie would remain unmistakably himself. “Knowing him, he’s bringing Sequins, Beads, & his sketch pad,” she continued. “Good nite sweet Prince.”
For Cher, Mackie was far more than a celebrated costume designer. He was a creative partner whose imagination transformed her into one of the most visually recognizable performers of her generation. His extravagant gowns, dazzling stage costumes, intricate beadwork, and fearless silhouettes became inseparable from Cher’s identity, proving that fashion could be as powerful and expressive as music itself.
News of Mackie’s death was announced through his official Instagram account, where a statement described the loss as coming “with a heavy heart.” It said Mackie had lived his 87 years to the fullest while pursuing the dream he had cherished throughout his life: becoming a fashion and costume designer. His publicist later confirmed to the Associated Press that pneumonia was the cause of death.
Mackie’s influence, however, stretched far beyond his extraordinary partnership with Cher. Throughout his remarkable career, his designs were worn by generations of cultural icons, including Madonna, Carol Burnett, Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, and Taylor Swift. His work repeatedly crossed the boundaries between fashion, entertainment, and history, turning clothing into unforgettable cultural moments.
Younger artists also understood the rare magic of Mackie’s artistry. Sabrina Carpenter, who wore several of his creations for performances, shared her heartbreak after learning of his death, calling herself “terribly devastated” and saying she felt incredibly fortunate to have met him. Pink likewise remembered Mackie as one of her heroes — “the one and only, the legend” — praising his warmth, humor, brilliance, and unmistakable individuality.
Perhaps the most fitting tribute came from Pink’s final words: “There are going to be some fabulously dressed angels.”
For generations of performers, Bob Mackie did more than make clothes. He created confidence, fantasy, glamour, and memories that could never be forgotten. His sequins may eventually fade, but the brilliance he brought to the world — and the stars he helped make shine brighter — will endure forever.
See Cher’s post below.