Most of us will never have the opportunity to wear designer fashions. After all, a lot of their clothing costs more for a single piece than a lot of us make in one year.
As shallow as it may sound, I always wanted to own something made by an internationally renowned designer. It didn’t have to be as fancy as Minola Blanik shoes or a gown by Vera Wang. Those kind of designs are way out of my league. However, owning a gown by Nolan Miller or something by Bob Mackie would more than fit the bill.
I remember when my husband and I were first married, we loved watching the Sonny and Cher and Carol Burnett variety shows. Both Cher and Carol often wore Bob Mackie fashions on their show. They looked unbelievably beautiful every single week.
Bob Mackie has his own signature style which encompasses a great deal of color, pattern, texture, and pizzazz. From his evening gowns to simple t-shirts, Mackie leaves his personal style on every garment he designs.
A few years back, Mackie began selling clothing on QVC. There he specializes in silk scarves that resemble miniature works of art. Some collectors purchase them, not to wear, but to frame and hang on the wall. But scarves aren’t the only thing in Mackie’s line. He also sells a stunning clothing collection that includes tops, pants, skirts, jackets, and dresses.
I watched his shows for a long time before I found something that suited me and was within my budget range. Even though I wanted to own a designer piece, I didn’t want to break the bank to do it. Nor did I want to purchase something I wouldn’t routinely wear.
I’m also somewhat of a bargain hunter. I seldom pay full price for anything. I feel guilty when I spend money on myself. I’d rather spoil my children or grandchildren.
Last year, however, my husband insisted that I purchase a Bob Mackie outfit that he declared was “all Charlie!” The cotton twill pants and jacket were done in the most stunning color of periwinkle. Embroidered on top of that were perfect representations of Stargazer Lilies; a favorite of mine.
I finally broke down and purchased the outfit. I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was when I opened the box. The fabric was first class cotton twill with a very soft sheen that screamed “class.” The cut and fit of the outfit was also perfect. However, it was the embroidery work that really blew me away.
I bought my daughter a stargazer lily plant for her backyard. She had just cut off some of the flowers for me. I compared her real life flowers to the embroidery work in the outfit. I couldn’t believe how picture perfect the match turned out to be. It almost looked like they plucked the lily and somehow infused it into the garment.
I love that outfit. I save it for special occasions rather than everyday wear, but I do wear it regularly. As strange as it may sound, wearing it actually lifts my spirits on a bad day. It also makes me feel pretty which is no small feat itself.
This year, for Mother’s Day, my husband and my children purchased another similar Mackie outfit for me. It was bright yellow cotton twill with embroidered sunflowers. It reminds me of the perfect sunny day back home in Oklahoma.
So what is so special about Bob Mackie fashions? There’s so much to speak to, I can’t possibly cover it all in one article. I think it starts with his obvious love of women. He likes to see women looking both beautiful and comfortable.
Another thing about Mackie fashions is his attention to detail. From simple seam work to be most elaborate embroidery, everything about a Mackie garment is first-class. It isn’t your cheap department store clothing that falls apart the first time you wear it. His fashions are made to withstand daily use without losing its fit or color.
One other thing that any Mackie fan will notice immediately is his impeccable design of form and function, coupled with elegance and beauty. To own a Mackie design is to own a piece of art. I love my two outfits and wouldn’t take any amount of money for them.
While coveting a designer garment may seem shallow on the surface, I think every woman is entitled to an occasional celebration of her life and essence. For me, that celebration happens every time I wear Bob Mackie. That can’t be all bad.
