Law Roach Says Bob Mackie Should Be the Next Met Gala Theme. Here Are a Few Looks We Need to See
The fashion world suffered a major loss with the passing of famed designer Bob Mackie on Monday. Now, one of his closest mentees, Law Roach, is speaking out about Mackie’s impact on the fashion industry.
During an interview with E! News on the red carpet at the 2026 Emmys, Roach explained that Mackie became like a godfather to him after comparing his fashion relationship with Zendaya to his and Cher’s back in the day. That conversation blossomed into an impactful working relationship for Roach, who was admittedly “devastated” by the news of Mackie’s passing.
Roach went on to suggest that one of the best ways to honor the man who dressed stylish celebrities, including Tina Turner, Diana Ross and Diahann Carroll would be to make him the theme for the 2027 Met Gala.
Related: Law Roach Talks About His Fashion Industry Grudges
“I would love to see Bob as a theme for the Met,” Roach explained. “I think the work is incredible and it spanned over 60 years. I don’t think there’s anyone else who has that huge, magnificent body of work as Bob did.”
Roach’s words got us thinking about a handful of iconic Bob Mackie looks that we’d love to see stars recreate on those Met Gala steps. Keep reading to see our picks!
Diana Ross
Of course, we had to start with “The Boss” herself, Diana Ross. While she frequently wore looks by Mackie both during her Supremes days and as a solo artist, this look from “G.I.T. On Broadway” just lives rent-free in our heads. And can you really blame us? Imagine seeing someone sport all this hair, all these florals at the Met Gala? Talk about a statement!
Lola Falana
Lola Falana dominated the 1970s and early 1980s as the First Lady of Las Vegas. She frequently collaborated with Bob Mackie, who kept her looking fabulous in pieces that glitter dreams are made of. This look from her variety show in 1976, where she gave a stunning performance of “Stormy Weather,” would be an absolute show-stopper at the Met Gala.
Tina Turner
You better know what you’re doing if you’re going to recreate a look from Tina Turner, one of Mackie’s regular clients. But if you’re going to do it, may we suggest this winged-out look from 1977? While everyone loves her classic sequined flame dress, this look is equally stellar and will help whoever wears it stand out amongst all the other folks who decide to take cues from other Turner looks that night.
RuPaul
Yes, we know this is another winged look. But if you’re going to show up to the Met Gala, you’ve got to come in something that’s going to get people stopping, staring, and talking. This look that Mackie pulled for RuPaul at the 1995 VH1 Fashion and Music Awards is a show-stopping option. You could even get creative with the colorways here if you don’t want a replica. Trust us, this look is so many levels of fabulous.
Whitney Houston
Now, while we encouraged you to switch up colors on the RuPaul dress—we don’t suggest the same for this 1994 Whitney Houston look. This Mackie-pulled look on the vocal angel that is Houston is just way too famous, way too beloved, and way too timeless to make it any other shade. If this look pops up at the Met Gala, the homage will be clear because the “I Will Always Love You” singer solidified her place in fashion history in this dress all those years ago.
