How Did Bob Mackie Help Tina Turner Create Her Iconic ‘Cavewoman’-Inspired Look? The Fashion Designer Recalls

As an obsessed fan who has been enamored with the world of Hollywood fashion for as long as I can remember, Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion was a riveting journey into the heart and soul of one of my all-time favorite designers. His work with the legendary Tina Turner is nothing short of iconic, and hearing his stories about their collaboration was like being granted a backstage pass to history itself.

As a seasoned lifestyle connoisseur, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some truly extraordinary individuals, one of whom is none other than the legendary fashion designer, Bob Mackie. Known for his iconic work in Hollywood, Bob Mackie’s creative muse was the late, unforgettable Tina Turner. In his recent documentary, “Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion,” he reminisced about their unique collaboration, a partnership that thrived on Tina’s spontaneity and audacity.

She aimed to establish a career by performing in various programs like The Sonny & Cher Show, The Cher Show, and others similar to them. Turner, who unfortunately passed away in 2023 at the age of 83, collaborated with Mackie during her TV show appearances. Mackie recalled their relationship, saying, “She became acquainted with me as I was involved in those variety shows and dressing her. It seemed like she had a realization, ‘Oh, there are people who do this profession.’

Mackie reminisced about how the singer of “Better Be Good to Me” would purchase affordable evening gowns in Paris and ask him to modify them based on her unique ideas. “They weren’t amazing,” he explained in the documentary, “but she’d appreciate the fabric and bring it in, saying something like, ‘Can we make this resemble a cavewoman?’

Mackie described his process of converting these “affordable, humorous evening gowns” into Tina Turner’s legendary costumes, calling it a “really enjoyable experience.” Additionally, Mackie fondly remembered his time spent with the singer backstage and the amusing anecdotes she shared after having two glasses of wine. According to him, she would take a couple of Tylenol pills, put on her high heels, and perform. He found her antics backstage simply “crazy.

The designer observed that although numerous individuals strove for success in this highly competitive field, Turner’s exceptional talent set her apart from the rest and made her distinct. He contends that the singer of “What’s Love Got to Do with It” was destined for a career in entertainment.

Mackie stated that these people are simply exceptional, effortlessly captivating their audiences and carrying them away. He also included Bette Midler and Cher in his list of individuals with unique performances that showcase an extraordinary talent and distinct approach.

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2024-12-02 19:09