At 73, Twiggy remains one of the most iconic figures in the fashion world, a name synonymous with the transformative styles of the 1960s. Known for her pixie haircut, striking blue eyes, and youthful charm, she defined an era and left an indelible mark on fashion history. Even now, her bold choices and unique look continue to inspire generations. As Twiggy celebrates her 74th birthday on September 19, her journey from a shy teenager to a global style icon deserves to be revisited.
Born Lesley Hornby, Twiggy’s rise to fame began in 1966. At just 16 years old, she was determined to break into the world of modeling despite being told repeatedly that she was too short at 5-foot-6. Undeterred, Twiggy decided to visit the House of Leonard, a prestigious salon in London, for a stylish new look that could give her an edge. It was here she encountered Leonard Lewis, famously known as Leonard of Mayfair. Leonard was seeking a model to showcase a new short haircut, and Twiggy became the perfect candidate.
In a recent interview on Jessie Ware’s podcast, Table Manners, Twiggy recalled how she never intended to get her signature pixie cut. “I went in to get my hair washed and styled, and Leonard spotted me,” she explained. “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.”
The transformation took two days and seven hours of meticulous cutting, coloring, and styling. Despite initial doubts, Twiggy quickly realized why Leonard was such a renowned stylist. Once her golden blonde pixie cut was perfected, Leonard arranged for British photographer Barry Lategan to take photos of Twiggy’s new look. These photos, displayed in the salon, caught the attention of Deirdre McSharry, the Daily Express fashion editor. McSharry’s enthusiasm for Twiggy’s bold new look led to a feature titled “Twiggy—The Face of ’66,” propelling her into the spotlight almost overnight.
Twiggy’s unique style was more than just her haircut. Her large blue eyes became a defining feature, enhanced by her innovative use of makeup. Twiggy revealed in a Vogue interview that her signature eye look was inspired by a rag doll with spiky lashes. “I was always experimenting with makeup at home,” she said. “I decided to buy false eyelashes for myself and created what became my signature ‘look.’” Combining bold mascara on her lower lashes and playful false lashes, Twiggy’s makeup became as iconic as her haircut.
Her meteoric rise coincided with the mod fashion movement, making her the ultimate symbol of the Swinging Sixties. Twiggy became closely associated with Mary Quant, the designer credited with popularizing miniskirts and redefining women’s fashion. Together, they pushed boundaries, celebrating individuality and youthful energy. Twiggy’s influence even extended to toys—she became the first celebrity to have her own Barbie doll.
Despite her immense success, Twiggy’s modeling career was short-lived. By 1970, she retired from modeling to pursue acting and singing. Her acting debut in The Boy Friend (1971) earned her two Golden Globe Awards. Over the years, she appeared in films like Club Paradise (1986) alongside Robin Williams and released albums, including Romantically Yours in 2011, which featured duets with her daughter, Carly Lawson.
Twiggy balanced her career with a deep commitment to her family. After the untimely death of Carly’s father, actor Michael Witney, Twiggy raised Carly alongside her second husband, Leigh Lawson. “Family is my top priority,” Twiggy said. “Even when Carly was young, if something didn’t work for her, I wouldn’t do it. We did everything together, and that’s why we’re so close now.”
Even in her 70s, Twiggy remains active in fashion and entertainment. She has collaborated with Marks & Spencer, served as a L’Oréal ambassador, and now hosts her podcast, Tea with Twiggy, where she chats with celebrity friends. Her legacy as a style icon and role model endures, proving that true beauty lies in authenticity and confidence.
Twiggy’s bold choices and innovative spirit continue to resonate. As she celebrates her 74th birthday, her journey serves as a reminder of the power of individuality and resilience. From her signature pixie cut to her groundbreaking influence in fashion, Twiggy’s impact is timeless. Let’s honor her remarkable life and achievements by sharing her story and celebrating her enduring legacy.
