On the latest episode of Lifetime’s Project Runway, the designers got to meet fashion and costume designer Bob Mackie at the museum of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Bob Mackie described the challenges of designing for stage performances, then explained that the designers would be creating a new look for Christina Aguilera to wear on stage.
I LOVED this challenge. I’ve enjoyed Bob Mackie’s work for so many years, not only for his Cher, Diana Ross, Madonna, and Tina Turner creations, but because of his work on The Carol Burnett Show and his brilliant parody of Scarlett O’Hara’s green velvet drapery dress.
And of course, I just happened to have the perfect model: Christina Aguilera!
I couldn’t wait to transform her into my own unique–and Bob Mackie-inspired–stage goddess.
Watching the show, I was a little surprised by the PR contestants’ lack of color in their final designs. I also wondered whether they considered that Christina Aguilera doesn’t just stand on stage and sing–she MOVES. I felt that some of their designs were either lingerie, red carpet looks, or evening gowns–instead of something a performer could dance in that would catch and reflect light, sparkle and flutter with movement, and also be dramatic and over-the-top–a COSTUME.
Christina-meets-showgirl: Bob Mackie style!
Close-up details of headdress:
Close-up details of bodice:
Back view of tulle bustle:
Close-up details of skirt and boots:
I sewed the stockings and the skirt and added the feathery embellishments to the boots and headdress. The headdress and bodice were designed from sections of beaded, sequined trim from Houston’s fabulous High Fashion. There’s nothing that would impede dance movements, and if you could see this design with fans blowing it, you’d see lots of sparkle and flow–just what I wanted and hope Christina would like.
So–Christina, call me! Everyone else, I’ll see you next time on the runway.
To see my previous designs for this season:
6:8–A Fashionable New Beginning
6:7–The Sky’s the Limit
6:6–Lights, Camera, Sew!
6:5–Fashion Headliners
6:4–What a Woman Wants
6:3–Rumble on the Runway
6:2–We Expect Fashion
6:1–The Red Carpet
Didn’t see what the PR contestants came up with so I can’t compare. BUT, your design is Bob Mackie all the way. Cher would surely trade her next full body botox treatment for a chance to wear your design. And the Wicket City’s Ms. Lotta Gutz would just die to be seen in it.
Thanks!
I haven’t seen the Real Life contestants, but this is fabulous! I love the tulle bustle, and the bodice and head-dress, but the accessories really make it for me. You have the best finishing touches! Those feathers take the cake.
Thank you!
“I felt that some of their designs were either lingerie, red carpet looks, or evening gowns–instead of something a performer could dance in that would catch and reflect light, sparkle and flutter with movement, and also be dramatic and over-the-top–a COSTUME.”
I agree whole heartedly, Becky. Your design seems to be much more of what I expected from them than any of the PR contestants. And those shoes!!! =0)
My first exposure to Bob Mackie goes back to the Carol Burnett show, as well.
Thanks, Gary!
What a fun challenge! And your results are what they should be: Mackie-esque but still you (that skirt and of course the embellished shoes are very you).
I’m glad I have a “me!” Thank you.
Ha! That looks wicked! I would totally pay to see Christina dance and sing in that. My fave part is the a-symmetrical bodice with the bit of midriff showing. Hawt.
You know Christina loves to show off her belly. Thanks!
The PR designers were so boring! I mean, really!
Where was the color? Where was the crazy? Where was the glitz and glam?
And we won’t talk about the lack of color!
I hope next season’s designers are better. This season’s contestants are not dazzling me at all.
How cool that you had a Cristina doll to work with! I think her smile says it all. You satisfied your client without losing yourself as a designer. Well done!
Thank you again, Miss Head. 😉
This is awesome. 🙂 The headdress kind of recalls a “palace sentry” look, and I think they should redo the official Changing of the Guard into something with disco choreography and this outfit. After all those years of not smiling, I imagine they could use some fun.
Thank you! I’m sure the queen would go along with your suggestion!
i love it! And how lucky that you happened to have a Christina of your very own! That top is so awesome it’s insane!
Thank you so much! I was REALLY pleased when I found out Christina was to be the celebrity on that episode.
Wow, dolls in evening dresses. How adorable. 🙂