About
Twiggy, whose real name is Lesley Hornby (later Lesley Lawson), is a British cultural icon who rose to fame during the 1960s. Known for her slim figure, large eyes, and short hair, she quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in fashion. Her youthful look and playful spirit helped her turn into an international superstar, and she was soon hailed as the embodiment of the swinging London scene. Although she began her career on the catwalk and in photoshoots, she did not stop there. She expanded her talents to acting, singing, and television, creating a diverse path that kept her in the spotlight for decades. Many people saw her as the voice of a new generation, representing change, freedom, and self-expression in ways that were fresh and captivating.
Before Fame
Twiggy was born on September 19, 1949, in North London. She grew up in a working-class household, where simplicity and modesty were part of everyday life. As a child, she was curious and creative, with a fascination for style and personal expression. She enjoyed looking through fashion magazines and was interested in art and design from an early age. Her path took an unexpected turn when she started modeling at 16. Her distinct look set her apart: she was unusually slim, wore her hair short, and had striking eye makeup that drew attention to her expressive gaze. This combination made her stand out in a fashion world that was always seeking something different.
Trivia
One of her earliest claims to fame was being named “The Face of 1966” by a British newspaper, which introduced her to readers who were fascinated by her trendsetting image. Her nickname itself—Twiggy—came from her thin figure, but she never let that define her entirely. Instead, she used her appearance as a platform to celebrate individuality. Over time, she moved on from modeling and became an actress, appearing in films and on stage. She even earned two Golden Globe Awards for her work in the movie “The Boy Friend,” proving that her skills went beyond posing for photos. Later in her career, she embraced television, serving as a judge on popular shows and bringing her warmth and honesty to new audiences. Despite her success in multiple fields, she always stayed grounded, never losing the relatable charm that endeared her to so many fans.
Family Life
Twiggy’s personal life has been filled with important relationships and strong family bonds. She was first married to American actor Michael Whitney, and they had a daughter, Carly. Though her first husband passed away, she found love again with actor Leigh Lawson, whom she married in 1988. Together, they created a supportive home environment, blending family life with professional endeavors. Even as her career continued to evolve, her loved ones remained a source of comfort and motivation. Throughout the years, she balanced her various roles—wife, mother, and performer—with a sense of poise, demonstrating that it’s possible to succeed in the entertainment world while keeping family at the heart of it all.
Associated With
Throughout her decades in the public eye, Twiggy crossed paths with many important figures from the fashion, music, and film industries. In the 1960s, she was closely linked to the British fashion designer Mary Quant, who was known for introducing the miniskirt and shaping the mod movement. Twiggy’s image helped bring new styles to a wide audience, showcasing bright prints, short hemlines, and bold eyeliner that defined an era. She also formed lasting friendships and creative partnerships with entertainers, photographers, and designers who recognized her timeless appeal. Her popularity soared even further when she collaborated with icons such as Justin de Villeneuve, who was instrumental in promoting her early career, and later faced the cameras with legendary photographers like Barry Lategan. Her connections extended beyond fashion, touching music and television as well, which allowed her to remain relevant no matter how the cultural landscape changed.
Today, Twiggy stands as a model of reinvention, staying active in various projects while maintaining a warm, down-to-earth charm. Whether gracing the pages of a magazine, appearing on screen, or speaking about her experiences, she continues to inspire people of all ages to celebrate who they are. Her journey reminds us that success can take many shapes, and true style comes from confidence, authenticity, and a willingness to explore the possibilities life has to offer.
