Legendary costume designer Bob Mackie, renowned for crafting Cher's signature looks, recently shared his mixed feelings about the infamous sheer bodysuit he created for her 1989 "If I Could Turn Back Time" music video. While acknowledging the ensemble's iconic status, Mackie admitted to advising Cher against revealing his involvement due to its provocative nature.
Cher performing "If I Could Turn Back Time" in the Mackie-designed outfit. (Ron Wolfson/MediaPunch/ALAMY)
Mackie recounted expressing his disapproval to Cher, emphasizing the outfit's inappropriateness for general audiences. The video, filmed aboard the USS Missouri, featured Cher's then 12-year-old son Elijah Blue playing bass, a detail that further amplified Mackie's concerns given the presence of cheering sailors and the revealing attire.
Elijah Blue Allman, Cher's son, played guitar in the music video. (Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Mackie's association with Cher began in the 1960s on "The Carol Burnett Show." He fondly remembered her youthful charm and recognized her transformative potential, believing she could embody any style. However, the "seatbelt outfit" and the "If I Could Turn Back Time" bodysuit remained points of contention for the designer, even though Cher was determined to wear them.
Bob Mackie and Cher's collaborative journey began decades ago. (Jean-Paul Aussenard/WireImage/Getty Images)
"I told her, ‘Please don’t tell anyone I had anything to do with this because I don’t really approve. This is not family viewing.'" — Bob Mackie
Cher performing "If I Could Turn Back Time" on the USS Missouri. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Mackie described the bodysuit as "vulgar," expressing his discomfort with its revealing nature. He also recalled Cher's initial hesitation and decision to wear a leather jacket, which he believed worsened the overall look.
Cher's stage presence is known for its daring fashion choices. (Marco Piraccini/Archivio Marco Piraccini/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)
Despite his reservations, Mackie acknowledged the video's enduring popularity and Cher's confidence in carrying off such outfits. He revealed that the costume was auctioned for a substantial sum and later rented by Cher for a tour.
Cher chose to add a leather jacket to the controversial outfit. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Bob Mackie and Cher's long-standing collaboration has produced numerous iconic looks. (Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
