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Diana Ross is more than a musical legend: she’s a style icon. The singer and actress, who turns 80 on March 26, got her start as the frontwoman of the Supremes before embarking on a successful solo career in the 1970s.
Ross’ legacy spans multiple mediums, from chart-topping albums to Oscar-nominated films. Through it all, she’s never failed to make a style statement, flaunting sequined dresses, beaded catsuits and glamorous gowns — many of them by Bob Mackie.
Ahead, a timeline of Ross’ best fashion moments.
“The Hollywood Palace,” 1967
Mary Wilson, Diana Ross and Cindy Birdsong of the Supremes in 1967.
The Supremes were known for their coordinating looks, with silver sequined Gene Shelly gowns being a notable highlight. Featuring bell sleeves and blue crystal embellishments, each dress was hand-beaded in Hong Kong. Ross, Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong wore these sparkling sheaths for an appearance on the variety show “The Hollywood Palace” in 1967.
“G.I.T. on Broadway,” 1969
Diana Ross in “G.I.T. on Broadway” in 1969.
Two months before Ross officially launched her solo career, she appeared on a television special alongside The Temptations. NBC’s “G.I.T. on Broadway” featured medleys of show tunes, as well as a series of elaborate costumes designed by Mackie. Ross would continue collaborating with the designer, who won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design for the 1969 special.
Diana Ross in “G.I.T. on Broadway” in 1969.
“Everything is Everything,” 1970
Diana Ross in 1970.
Ross wore a rhinestone-encrusted fishnet catsuit designed by Mackie for the cover of her second solo album, “Everything is Everything.”
The...