Sabrina Carpenter makes Grand Ole Opry debut in archival Bob Mackie dress designed for Ann-Margret in the ‘70s
Sabrina Carpenter pulled out all the stops for her Grand Ole Opry debut on Wednesday night.
The singer hit the stage in Nashville wearing a black one-shoulder outfit that glittered under the lights of the theater. It was an archival piece designed by Bob Mackie.
The designer shared the look on Instagram, describing the dress as a “black jersey one-shouldered strip dress, with large crystal and diamond gemstones.”
What’s more, the dress was more than just a fantastically preserved vintage garment. It was originally designed for actress Ann-Margaret in the 1970s, intended for her club act.
How’s that for a piece of fashion history?
Carpenter took to Instagram herself to share the “magical” night, writing, “thank you to the showstopping band that accompanied me last night. thank you to my amazing fans who came out and for the Opry frequenters that opened me with welcome ears and hearts :’) I’m a lucky girl!”
This is not the first time that Sabrina Carpenter has chosen to wear vintage Bob Mackie for an event. It isn’t the first time she’s opted for a Mackie piece with some major historical value, either.
Just a few weeks ago, while attending her Studio54-themed post-VMAs 2025 party, the 26-year-old slipped into a 50-year-old dress once worn on-screen by Cher herself.
And, on the red carpet of the 2024 VMAs, she chose a strapless white crystal-covered Bob Mackie gown famously worn by Madonna.
As for this latest look? It could technically be yours …
California’s Julien’s Auction House is hosting a Bob Mackie auction on December 3 in Beverly Hills, selling more than 50 pieces, including Carpenter’s exact dress.
The auction will include pieces worn by Cher, Tina Turner, Britney Spears, Beyoncé and Pink — to name a few.
Before there was Taylor Swift’s “Life of a Showgirl,” there was Bob Mackie and his iconic muses, all paving the way with exemplary showgirl style.
Let’s hope more of Mackie’s dazzling designs receive an encore!
