Bob Mackie Ivory Sequin, Pearls & Nude Stretch Net Thigh High Slit Dress, 1980s

Bob Mackie is commonly regarded as one of the world’s most prolific costume designers with his designs gracing stages and screens all over the globe. He famously designed for the likes of Cher and Diana Ross, and his designs continue to serve as inspiration for many celebrities and stars. Sometimes referred to as the “sultan of sequins” Mackie is a three-time Oscar nominee as well as an Emmy and CDFA award winner. In the 1980s, Mackie launched a ready-to-wear line that brought all of the fanciful dreaminess he is known for to the everyday woman in classic silhouettes with a twist.

As seen on Tracee Ellis Ross on a 2020 episode of Blackish in which she paid tribute to Cher, this dress is a magnificent example of Mackie’s exquisite, show stopping aesthetic. Done in a nude stretch silk netting with hand-appliqued beads and sequins in a pattern of flame-like curves, this dress is sexy and glamorous at once.

The dress is further adorned with faux pearls at the collar, sleeves, down the front of the bodice, and along each side of the thigh-high slit. The pattern of curving bands is made up of ivory sequins outlined by white and silver tube beads, and is punctuated throughout with glittering silver sequins and clear rhinestones.

Size estimate: Medium - fabric does have stretch

Bust: 36 inches

Waist: 30-31 inches

Hips: 36-37 inches

Length: 57 inches from top of shoulder to longest length of hem

The fitted bodice begins with a high, angled collar and long sleeves that reach the wrist with cuffs bordered by pearls and sequins. At the back of the dress the pattern appears to radiate outward from the center line, accentuating the natural curves of the body and making it seem as if the dress is spiraling around the wearer.

The skirt opens to an incredible thigh-slit at the front of the dress, and falls to a maxi length at the ankles in a tapered and somewhat dainty high-low hem. Made to demi-couture standards and hand finished throughout, this incredible red-carpet worthy dress is the perfect choice for a gala, wedding, or special occasion.

In excellent condition, this Bob Mackie dress is fully lined in nude silk at the body and sheer chiffon at the sleeves. It has a painted metal and nylon back zip closure, and zipper closures on each cuff. The dress comes with attached shoulder pads, and is more of a cream color when seen in person. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.