Renowned Hollywood fashion designer Bob Mackie has expressed his delight and surprise after pop superstar Taylor Swift chose one of his iconic, rhinestone-encrusted creations for the cover of her latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl." Speaking to E! News, the 85-year-old "Sultan of Sequins" admitted he was "kind of shocked" by Swift's selection, noting his previous perception of her as a much younger artist. He remarked on Swift's impressive stature and maturity, dispelling his earlier notion that she was still in her early teens.

Mackie's legendary career is marked by his famously sparkly and jewel-encrusted costumes, which have graced a multitude of global icons. His designs have been worn by a stellar list of celebrities including Diana Ross, Elton John, Whitney Houston, Miley Cyrus, Judy Garland, Beyoncé, Liza Minelli, and most notably, Cher. His distinctive aesthetic has cemented his status as a titan in the world of fashion and entertainment.

The specific ensemble donned by Taylor Swift for her 12th LP cover has a rich history, as detailed by Mackie in an August Instagram post. The outfit was originally conceived for the "Jewel Finale" of the illustrious Las Vegas show Jubilee!, a spectacular production by Don Arden. This show, which ran for an impressive 35 years from 1981 to 2016, was renowned for its elaborate couture costumes worn by showgirls, many of which were based on Florenz Ziegfeld stage shows. With over 1,000 costumes, Jubilee! stands as the longest-running showgirl spectacular in history.

Mackie further elaborated on the intricate details of the costume. He explained that the bra, undergarments, and armbands feature French wirework, meticulously backed with a blush fabric to create a striking nude illusion. The design is further enhanced by carefully set stones and delicate drops positioned at the under-bust of the bra and along the waistline of the underwear, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship characteristic of Bob Mackie's creations.