Bob Mackie, fashion designer to the stars, dies aged 87

Bob Mackie, the iconic American designer to the stars who dressed Cher, Dolly Parton and Madonna and defined ’70s Hollywood glamour, has died aged 87.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today,” a statement on Mackie’s Instagram account read on Monday (US time).

“He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a fashion and costume designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”

Mackie’s career spanned five decades and included designing a Barbie doll clothes collection.

Born in 1939 into a middle-class family in Monterey Park, California, he was nominated for more than 30 Emmys, winning nine. The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards are being held in Los Angeles on Monday night (Tuesday morning AEST).

Mackie received Academy Award nominations for costumes worn in the films Lady Sings the Blues , Funny Lady , and Pennies From Heaven .

Mackie was known for sequins, rhinestones and glitter, but also humour. The highlight of his 11-year run for The Carol Burnett Show was the “curtain dress” worn by Burnett in a sketch parodying 1939 film classic Gone with the Wind .

The costume, now in the collection of the Smithsonian’s American History Museum, included a brass curtain rod balanced on Burnett’s shoulders and a bit of valance worn as a hat.

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