Bob Mackie - A Designers Journey

Robert "Bob" Mackie is an American designer whose clothing is
worn by many of today's top celebrities as well as some of
Hollywood's biggest names of the past, including Madonna, Raquel
Welch, Barbara Streisand, Joan Collins, Diahann Carroll, Lucille
Ball, Judy Garland, Diana Ross, Oprah Winfrey, Tina Turner,
Bette Midler, Sharon Stone, Ann-Margaret, Brooke Shields, and
many more. Even Bart Simpson sported a Bob Mackie outfit in one
episode of The Simpsons.

Bob Mackie got his start by creating the many memorable
costumes on 'The Carol Burnett Show' as well as for actress and
singer Cher. When working with 'The Carol Burnett Show', some
of his designs had more of a humorous appeal than a fashion
appeal. One famous dress, called the "curtain dress,"
incorporated a curtain rod that ran across the shoulders.
Mackie enjoyed an eleven-year career with 'The Carol Burnett
Show' as he designed a number of costumes and wigs. Together,
he and Burnett created numerous "alter-egos" that Burnett
portrayed on her show. In many cases, the costume helped define
the character, which then helped to create the script, rather
than the other way around. As such, he is one of few designers
that has mixed his craft with theater.

Mackie also designed a show-stopping outfit for Cher that she
wore to the 1986 Academy Awards, which incorporated a loincloth,
a black chain link top, and a rather large headdress. Cher is
commonly seen wearing Mackie's designs - so often, in fact, that
most picture her in one of his outfits when thinking of the
star. The outfits he has created for Cher and for other
celebrities certainly do keep in line with one of Mackie's most
famous quotes of "A woman who wears my clothes is not afraid to
be noticed."

Known by many as the "Rajah of rhinestones" and as the "Sultan
of sequins," Mackie has also created a number of exclusive
designs for some high-priced Barbie dolls. His imaginative and
sparkling designs have earned him a number of awards, including
seven Emmy Awards. He has also been nominated three times for
an Academy Award for his work in fashion and design.


About The Author: James Philips is a staff member at
http://www.perfumecenter.com