Discover How Twiggy Revolutionized Fashion at 73 and Still Looks as Stunning as Ever!
The legendary British supermodel Twiggy, known for her androgynous look, bold pixie cut, and mesmerizing blue eyes, is still turning heads at 73. Despite the passing years, her ageless beauty and timeless influence on fashion remain unmatched. In celebration of her 74th birthday on September 19, let’s look back at the unforgettable style icon who changed the face of fashion forever.
Born Lesley Hornby in 1949, the young model was initially told she was “too short” to succeed in the competitive fashion industry. Standing at just 5’6”, Twiggy faced criticism but defied the odds. Little did anyone know that this self-conscious teenager would soon become the face of the 1960s fashion revolution.
In 1966, a young Twiggy was ready for a makeover to help launch her career. It all started with a simple hair appointment at the House of Leonard in London, where she met the famous stylist Leonard Lewis (aka Leonard of Mayfair).
In a recent podcast appearance on "Table Manners" with Jessie Ware, Twiggy shared her hesitation to cut her long hair. “I was in a posh salon, and I was too shy to say no,” she laughed, recounting how she nervously nodded when Leonard suggested a dramatic pixie cut. What followed was a seven-hour transformation that would change her life forever.
Though Twiggy never intended to sport an androgynous look, the pixie cut became her signature. After Leonard perfected her short golden crop, it wasn’t long before her big blue eyes and bold lashes captured the attention of photographer Barry Lategan. The photos became iconic and landed Twiggy her first major fashion shoot with Deirdre McSharry of the Daily Express.
What followed was nothing short of a whirlwind: her pictures graced the pages of Vogue, and she quickly became the face of the mod fashion era. The look—paired with Twiggy’s signature "baby doll" eyes—set the stage for an unforgettable career in fashion and entertainment.
What made Twiggy’s look so revolutionary? It was all about the eyes! In an interview with Vogue, she explained how she was inspired by rag dolls as a child, which led her to experiment with dramatic eye makeup. The result? Those extra-long lashes and doe-like eyes that became her trademark. The makeup technique gave her a youthful, playful look that appealed to a generation of women.
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Her look was more than just about hair and makeup—it was about freedom and a bold departure from traditional beauty standards.
By the late 1960s, Twiggy was not only one of the most recognizable faces in the world, but she was also a trendsetter. Her short dresses, vibrant style, and bold confidence defined the mod era, and she became the first celebrity Mattel used as inspiration for the Twiggy Barbie doll.
But Twiggy wasn’t just a pretty face—she was a trailblazer. Throughout her career, she collaborated with legendary designer Mary Quant and redefined the fashion landscape with mini skirts and modern femininity.
Though her modeling career lasted just a few years, Twiggy’s influence never faded. After retiring from the runway in 1970, she transitioned to acting and singing, earning accolades along the way. Her role in the 1971 musical "The Boy Friend" earned her two Golden Globe Awards, and she later starred in "Club Paradise" alongside Robin Williams in 1986.
Twiggy’s talents extend beyond the stage—she also worked on a fashion line with Marks & Spencer and became a global ambassador for L’Oréal. Even today, she is a highly sought-after personality in the fashion world, hosting her podcast "Tea with Twiggy" where she chats with famous friends and dives into her rich career.
Amid all the fame and fortune, Twiggy’s true success lies in the bond she shares with her family. Raising her daughter Carly Lawson, Twiggy always put family first. She proudly shares, “If it didn’t work for Carly, I didn’t do it,” emphasizing the importance of being present for her daughter. Today, Twiggy is not only a mother but a grandmother, and her family remains her number one priority.
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At 74, Twiggy remains as radiant as ever. From her signature pixie cut to her charming personality, she is the embodiment of grace, style, and enduring beauty. As we celebrate her legacy, it's clear that Twiggy’s impact on the world of fashion and pop culture is as strong as ever.
In 2023, Twiggy continues to turn heads at major fashion events, like Vogue World London. She may have transformed the world of fashion in the 60s, but she remains a timeless icon today. Her pixie cut, bold lashes, and effortless elegance are as captivating now as they were in her youth.
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What do you remember most about the Swinging Sixties? Have you ever dared to try Twiggy’s iconic pixie cut, or perhaps you’ve experimented with bold makeup like her? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If you loved reading about Twiggy’s incredible style evolution, check out how Catherine Deneuve has maintained her stunning look over the decades, also starting her career in the 1960s.