Twiggy, or Lesley Lawson as she is known off stage, is one of the most iconic and recognizable faces in the world of modeling. Her signature pixie cut, large doe eyes and thin frame defined the fashion industry in the 1960s and have continued to influence it for over five decades. However, behind the captivating image lies a deeply personal and at times, tragic story.
Born in 1949 in London, England, Twiggy grew up in a working-class family and was a shy and introverted child. She was often teased for her tall height, thin frame, and androgynous appearance. But it was these very characteristics that would later make her a fashion sensation.
At the age of 16, Twiggy was discovered by hairdresser Nigel Davies who saw potential in her and encouraged her to pursue modeling. She was initially hesitant but eventually gave in and began her journey to fame. Her thin frame and unique look quickly caught the attention of the fashion industry and she was soon gracing the covers of magazines and walking the runways of Paris and New York.
Her rise to stardom was meteoric and her famous haircut, courtesy of hairdresser Leonard of Mayfair, catapulted her into superstardom. Her ethereal appearance and youthful charm made her the face of the swinging sixties and she became a fashion icon overnight. The “Twiggy look” became synonymous with mod fashion, which was characterized by short, bold, and geometric patterns.
However, while Twiggy was living the life of a supermodel, her personal life was anything but glamorous. At a young age of 17, she married American actor Michael Witney, who was 14 years her senior. The couple had a son, Jason, but the marriage was tumultuous and ended in divorce after only four years. Witney tragically died in 1983, leaving Twiggy a widow at the age of 33.
Despite her personal struggles, Twiggy continued to make a name for herself in the fashion industry. She became the youngest model to be featured on the cover of Vogue and continued to work with top designers, photographers, and models of her time. She also dabbled in acting and appeared in several films and TV shows, including the iconic musical “The Boyfriend” and the cult classic “The Blues Brothers.”
Outside of her career, Twiggy has also become a vocal advocate for various charitable causes. Her compassion and empathy for those in need are a result of her own childhood struggles. She has been an ambassador for organizations like Breast Cancer Care and Wildlife Trusts, and has tirelessly worked towards promoting and supporting animal welfare.
Now in her 70s, Twiggy continues to make headlines with her timeless beauty and impeccable style. In 2019, she launched her own clothing line, which celebrates her iconic fashion moments and encourages women of all ages to embrace their individuality and personal style.
Beyond the pixie cut and the glamorous world of fashion, Twiggy’s life has been a journey of resilience and perseverance. Her personal struggles and triumphs have shaped her into the beloved icon that she is today. She has proven that true beauty goes beyond physical appearance and that strength and grace can shine through even in the most challenging of circumstances.
In a world where perfection is often sought after, Twiggy’s story serves as a reminder to embrace our unique qualities and embrace the beauty in our imperfections. She will forever be a fashion icon and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.