Janel Emmert

Written by Janel Emmert

Published: 09 Oct 2023

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

21-enigmatic-facts-about-twiggy-lesley-lawson
Source: Theguardian.com

Twiggy Lesley Lawson, better known simply as Twiggy, is one of the most iconic figures in the world of fashion and entertainment. With her waif-like figure, doe-eyed gaze, and cropped boyish hair, she revolutionized the fashion industry and became a symbol of the 1960s London mod scene. But there’s so much more to this enigmatic celebrity than meets the eye. From her humble beginnings in a working-class London suburb to her meteoric rise to stardom, Twiggy’s journey is filled with fascinating twists and turns. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Twiggy and uncover 21 intriguing facts that shed light on the woman behind the iconic image. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the captivating world of Twiggy Lesley Lawson.

Key Takeaways:

  • Twiggy Lesley Lawson, the iconic supermodel, captivated the world with her unique style and androgynous look, becoming a fashion pioneer and an inspiration for generations to come.
  • From receiving the “Model of the Year” award at 16 to her advocacy for body positivity, Twiggy’s enigmatic journey continues to influence and inspire the fashion industry and beyond.
Table of Contents

Twiggy was born Lesley Hornby on September 19, 1949.

Twiggy Lesley Lawson, known by her stage name Twiggy, was born as Lesley Hornby on September 19, 1949, in Neasden, London, England. She rose to fame in the 1960s as a British fashion icon and one of the world’s first supermodels.

Twiggy received her iconic nickname from her childhood.

The nickname “Twiggy” was given to her by her childhood friends due to her slim and slender physique. It became her professional name and remains synonymous with her to this day.

She became a worldwide sensation at the age of 16.

At just 16 years old, Twiggy burst onto the fashion scene and quickly became a global sensation. Her unique androgynous look, cropped hair, and exaggerated eyelashes captured the imagination of the fashion industry and the public alike.

Twiggy’s iconic eyelashes were originally created by her own mother.

To achieve her signature look, Twiggy’s mother, Nellie Lydia Hornby, would painstakingly apply individual clusters of false eyelashes to her daughter’s lashes. This distinctive feature became one of her most recognizable trademarks.

She was the face of the “Swinging London” era.

Twiggy epitomized the spirit of the “Swinging London” era in the 1960s, which was characterized by a vibrant youth culture, fashion revolution, and a creative explosion in music, art, and film.

Twiggy was the youngest model to receive the “Model of the Year” award.

In 1966, at the age of 16, Twiggy made history by becoming the youngest model to receive the prestigious “Model of the Year” award by the British Fashion Council.

She retired from modeling at the age of 21.

Despite her enormous success and iconic status, Twiggy decided to retire from modeling at the age of 21 to pursue other interests, including acting, singing, and working as a television personality.

Twiggy made her mark in the acting world.

After retiring from modeling, Twiggy transitioned into acting and made a name for herself on both stage and screen. She appeared in numerous films, including “The Boy Friend” (1971) and “My One and Only” (2009).

Twiggy released several successful music albums.

In addition to her acting career, Twiggy released several music albums throughout the years, showcasing her versatile talents as a singer. Her debut album, “Twiggy” (1976), achieved commercial success and featured collaborations with renowned artists.

She has been a judge on various reality TV shows.

Twiggy has lent her expertise as a judge on popular reality TV shows, including “America’s Next Top Model” and “Canada’s Next Top Model.” Her wealth of knowledge and experience in the fashion industry made her an ideal judge for aspiring models.

Twiggy has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions.

Throughout her career, Twiggy has received numerous accolades and recognitions for her contributions to fashion, music, and the arts. She was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 2019 for her services to fashion, the arts, and charity.

Twiggy has always been an animal lover.

Twiggy is a passionate animal lover and has been actively involved in various animal welfare organizations. She supports campaigns against animal cruelty and promotes responsible pet ownership.

She published her autobiography in 1998.

In 1998, Twiggy published her autobiography, titled “Twiggy in Black and White,” where she shared her life experiences, career journey, and personal insights.

Twiggy has her own clothing line.

Twiggy expanded her brand by launching her own clothing line, encompassing her unique sense of style and fashion. Her collections showcase her love for vintage-inspired designs combined with modern trends.

Twiggy is an advocate for body positivity.

Throughout her career, Twiggy has been an advocate for body positivity and has spoken out against unrealistic beauty standards. She encourages people to embrace their individuality and celebrate diversity in the fashion industry.

She has been involved in philanthropy work.

Twiggy has been actively involved in philanthropic endeavors and has supported various charitable causes throughout her life. She has participated in fundraising campaigns and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals and communities.

Twiggy has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry, Twiggy was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in This prestigious accolade solidifies her status as an influential figure in the world of fashion and entertainment.

Twiggy remains an influential figure in the fashion industry.

Even after decades in the spotlight, Twiggy continues to inspire and influence the fashion industry. Her timeless style, unique look, and trailblazing career have left an indelible mark on the world of fashion.

Twiggy has been a fashion ambassador.

Twiggy has served as a fashion ambassador, representing well-known brands and collaborating with designers to showcase their collections. Her eye for fashion and trendsetting style have made her a sought-after figure in the industry.

She remains an enigmatic icon.

Twiggy Lesley Lawson’s enduring legacy as a fashion pioneer and influential figure in popular culture has solidified her status as an enigmatic icon. Her impact on the fashion industry and her revolutionary influence continue to captivate and inspire.

Twiggy Lesley Lawson is an inspiration to generations.

Twiggy’s journey from a young girl from Neasden to international fame has inspired countless individuals around the world. Her determination, talent, and unique style have made her an icon for generations to come.

Conclusion

Twiggy Lesley Lawson, also known as Twiggy, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark in the world of fashion and culture. From her iconic modeling career in the 1960s to her continued influence as a fashion icon and judge on America’s Next Top Model, Twiggy has remained a symbol of style and grace.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored some fascinating facts about Twiggy, shedding light on her life, achievements, and contributions to the fashion industry. From her meteoric rise to stardom as the world’s first supermodel to her successful transition into television and film, Twiggy’s career has been nothing short of remarkable.

But beyond her professional achievements, Twiggy’s enigmatic personality has captured the hearts of millions. Her unique sense of style, captivating charm, and timeless beauty continue to inspire generations of fashion enthusiasts.

Twiggy Lesley Lawson is an icon, a trailblazer, and a symbol of eternal elegance. Her impact on the fashion industry will forever be remembered, making her a true cultural icon.

FAQs

Q: What is Twiggy’s real name?

A: Twiggy’s real name is Lesley Hornby, but she became widely known by her nickname Twiggy.

Q: How did Twiggy become famous?

A: Twiggy rose to fame in the 1960s as one of the world’s first supermodels. Her waif-like figure, short hair, and large eyes became defining features and helped her become an international sensation.

Q: What is Twiggy known for?

A: Twiggy is known for revolutionizing the modeling industry with her unique and unconventional look. She also made a successful transition into acting, singing, and being a television personality.

Q: Has Twiggy retired from modeling?

A: While Twiggy is no longer as active in the modeling industry as she once was, she still occasionally works as a model and continues to have a significant presence in the fashion and entertainment world.

Q: Is Twiggy still involved in the fashion industry?

A: Yes, Twiggy remains involved in the fashion industry. She has worked as a judge on America’s Next Top Model and has collaborated with various brands and designers over the years.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.