Bob Mackie, whose stunning evening gowns combined Old Hollywood glamour with modern pizzazz, has died at the age of 87, per People. He passed away on Monday, September 14, in Palm Springs, California. His cause of death, per a rep and according to the outlet, was pneumonia.
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The man was simply brilliant. Anything he did was finely crafted, refined to the hilt, and utterly show-stopping. The women who often wore Bob Mackie's flowing fantasies of chiffon and sequins reads like a Who's Who of the entertainment world. Liza Minnelli, Cher, Barbra Streisand, Tina Turner, Carol Burnett, Miley Cyrus, and many more had closets chock full of Mackie's marvels.
His Team Posted a Truly Moving Message
They wrote of this talented and genial gentleman on Instagram, "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. 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."
A snap of Mackie clad in black and apparently in his studio, smiling broadly, captures the essence of the beloved designer.
Many A-Listers Shared Their Thoughts on Bob Mackie
The famous and fabulous were Bob Mackie's clientele. On the day he died, several of them poured out their gratitude and grief on Instagram. He followed in the footsteps of Tinseltown's greatest designers, bur he carved a niche all his own as well.
Alyssa Milano said this of Mackie. "Sending condolences to all who loved him. He was one of the best that ever was. And I'm proud to have a collection of his dresses."
From Kim Cattrall came a charming tribute. "Such a loss. You never felt sexier when wearing a @bobmackie gown. Rip xo"
Laverne Cox kept it short and sweet. "Rest in Power. Thank you Mr. Mackie."
"What a legend," declared Kate Walsh.
Cameron Silver, who was the fashion director of the classic Halston brand, put it beautifully. He wrote in part, "I treasured every moment spent with Bob Mackie. Not only was he spectacularly talented, the man was a mensch. I always told him that he deserved a Kennedy Center Honor for his contributions in fashion, television, theatre, film, music, etc. Let's make this happen...."
