Twiggy

Twiggy promo

Ken Russell and Twiggy on set of The Boyfriend (cropped)

Twiggy & Justin de Villeneuve 1973

Three Figures, Bourdon Place W1

Twiggy (born Lesley Lawson, née Hornby; 19 September 1949) is an English model, actress, and singer who rose to fame in the mid-1960s, emblematic of the swinging sixties London scene. Twiggy became one of the world's first supermodels and was known for her thin build (hence her nickname), large eyes, long eyelashes, and short hair. Twiggy's look defined an era and she remains an icon of the 1960s fashion, beauty, and cultural scene.

Early Life

Twiggy was born in Neasden, a suburb of London, to Nellie Lydia (née Reeman), a factory worker for a printing firm, and William Norman Hornby, a master carpenter and joiner. She attended Kilburn High School for Girls and showed an early interest in fashion.

Career

Modelling

Twiggy's modelling career began almost by accident when she was discovered by Nigel Davies (later known as Justin de Villeneuve), a prominent figure in London's fashion scene, who saw potential in her unique look. She was quickly signed and her first professional photoshoots, including those by photographer Barry Lategan, helped catapult her to fame. Her distinctive image appeared on the covers of major magazines, including Vogue and The Face, making her a household name.

Acting and Singing

Beyond modelling, Twiggy pursued careers in acting and singing. She made her film debut in The Boy Friend (1971), for which she won two Golden Globe Awards. She has appeared in a variety of films, television series, and stage productions since. As a singer, Twiggy has released albums and singles, exploring genres from pop to country.

Legacy

Twiggy's influence extends beyond her modelling career. She is considered a fashion icon, influencing trends and styles. Her image is synonymous with the youth-driven fashion and cultural revolution of the 1960s. Twiggy has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts and has launched her own fashion lines.

Personal Life

Twiggy has been married twice. Her first marriage was to American actor Michael Witney, with whom she had a daughter, Carly. Following Witney's death, she married Leigh Lawson in 1988.

In Popular Culture

Twiggy's legacy is evident in the numerous references to her in music, film, and fashion. She has been portrayed in films and documentaries that explore the 1960s cultural revolution, and her style continues to inspire fashion designers and enthusiasts.

See Also

• Swinging Sixties
• Supermodel
• Fashion in the 1960s