At 73, Twiggy remains one of the most iconic figures in the fashion world, known for revolutionizing beauty standards and shaping the style of the 1960s. Her bold pixie haircut, striking blue eyes, and elfin charm made her a symbol of mod fashion and youthful rebellion. Even decades later, her influence is still celebrated, and her signature look continues to inspire.
Twiggy, born Lesley Hornby, didn’t set out to become a cultural icon. In 1966, as a teenager trying to launch her modeling career, she faced skepticism from the fashion industry. At just 5-foot-6, many believed she was too short to succeed. Determined to stand out, Twiggy visited the prestigious House of Leonard salon in London, where fate introduced her to Leonard Lewis, famously known as Leonard of Mayfair. Leonard was seeking models to showcase his innovative short haircut, and Twiggy became his perfect muse.
In a recent interview on Jessie Ware’s podcast, Table Manners, Twiggy revealed that the pixie cut, which would later define her career, wasn’t her original plan. “I went in to get my hair washed and styled, and Leonard spotted me,” she recalled. “He said, ‘Let me try my new haircut on you.’ I had been growing my hair out, and for a second, I thought, ‘I’m not sure if I want to cut it.’ But since I was in this fancy salon in Mayfair, I felt too shy to say no, so I just nodded.”
What followed was a transformation that took seven hours over two days. Leonard cut, colored, and styled her hair to perfection, giving Twiggy her now-iconic golden blonde pixie cut. Although she wasn’t initially a fan of the androgynous style, she quickly realized why Leonard was such a renowned stylist. After completing the haircut, Leonard called in British photographer Barry Lategan to capture Twiggy’s new look. The photographs, displayed in the salon, caught the attention of Daily Express fashion editor Deirdre McSharry. That pivotal moment launched Twiggy’s modeling career. The Daily Express ran a feature titled “Twiggy—The Face of ’66,” propelling her into the spotlight.
Twiggy’s unique look emphasized her large blue eyes, which she enhanced with bold makeup. In an interview with Vogue, she shared that her signature eye makeup was inspired by a rag doll with spiky lashes. “I was always experimenting with makeup at home,” she explained. “I decided to buy false eyelashes for myself and created what became my signature ‘look.’” Twiggy’s playful approach to makeup, combined with her pixie cut, quickly became synonymous with the Swinging Sixties.
Beyond her appearance, Twiggy’s charisma and youthful energy captured the spirit of the era. She became closely associated with Mary Quant, the designer who popularized miniskirts and defined mod fashion. Twiggy’s influence extended beyond modeling—she inspired countless women to embrace bold styles and challenge conventional beauty standards. At just 16, she became the first celebrity to have her own Barbie doll, cementing her status as a cultural icon.
Despite her meteoric rise, Twiggy’s modeling career was brief. In 1970, she retired from modeling to pursue acting and singing. Her acting debut in the 1971 film The Boy Friend earned her two Golden Globe Awards, and she later starred in films such as Club Paradise alongside Robin Williams. Twiggy also explored music, releasing several albums, including Romantically Yours in 2011, which featured duets with her daughter, Carly Lawson.
Twiggy balanced her career with her role as a mother. After Carly’s father, actor Michael Witney, passed away when Carly was five, Twiggy raised her alongside her second husband, Leigh Lawson. Twiggy prioritized family, often bringing Carly along on her travels to ensure they remained close. Today, Twiggy cherishes her role as a grandmother, crediting her strong bond with Carly as her greatest accomplishment.
Even now, Twiggy remains active in fashion and entertainment. She has collaborated with brands like Marks & Spencer, served as an ambassador for L’Oréal, and currently hosts her podcast, Tea with Twiggy, where she chats with celebrity friends. As she celebrates her 74th birthday on September 19, Twiggy continues to inspire with her enduring elegance and timeless style.
Twiggy’s legacy as a trailblazer in fashion and culture is undeniable. Her journey from a shy teenager to an international superstar proves that individuality and confidence can transform the world. Let’s celebrate Twiggy’s remarkable life and achievements by sharing her story and honoring her impact on generations of women. Happy Birthday, Twiggy—you’re still as stunning as ever!
