Twiggy, the quintessential British style icon, continues to redefine the boundaries of fashion and aging at 75. A figure who burst onto the scene in the swinging '60s, she has managed to maintain her allure and relevance in an ever-transforming industry. Her youthful spirit, active lifestyle, and unyielding love for fashion have ensured that her influence, like her signature eye makeup, remains timeless and iconic.
From the moment a teenage Lesley Hornby transformed into Twiggy, with her pixie haircut and doe-eyed look, she was destined to revolutionize the fashion world. Dubbed "The Face of '66," Twiggy's waif-like figure and striking appearance made her the poster child of the mod movement and set the stage for what would become a lifelong career in fashion and beyond.
In an exclusive interview with HELLO! Magazine, Twiggy opened up about why she has no plans to retire, stating, "I love fashion, and I love being involved in it." Her passion for the industry is evident in her collaborations with major brands like Marks & Spencer, where her designs often reflect her penchant for tailored suits and classic silhouettes.
Twiggy's style today is as sharp and refined as it was during her early days on the catwalk. She favors impeccably tailored trouser suits, often pairing them with a crisp white shirt and minimal accessories. Her love for British tailoring is rooted in history, having been one of the first women to commission suits from Savile Row’s legendary tailor, Tommy Nutter. "I’ve got suits in every shape and color," she says, reminiscing about her fashion line for Marks & Spencer, which was rich in beautiful tailoring.
Her enduring appeal is not only about her sartorial choices but also her approach to aging. Twiggy embraces a healthy lifestyle, crediting her youthful appearance to regular walks and Pilates. This active lifestyle is a reflection of her dynamic personality, which has seen her thrive not just as a model, but also as an actress and singer, proving her versatility and resilience.
But beyond her public persona, Twiggy is a devoted grandmother. Her relationship with her grandchildren, Joni and Theo, is a cherished part of her life. "Just hanging out with them is one of my greatest luxuries," she shares, highlighting the importance of family and the simpler pleasures amidst a glamorous career.
Twiggy’s knack for staying relevant is partly due to her ability to adapt and evolve. While she treasures a few key pieces from her early days—like a two-tone green velvet coat by Ossie Clark and a faux leopard coat from Biba’s Barbara Hulanicki—she doesn’t dwell too much on the past, instead opting to embrace new trends and ideas.
Her influence in the fashion world is undeniable, and her contributions have been recognized at the highest levels, having been honored as a Dame for services to fashion, the arts, and charity in 2019. This accolade is a testament to her impact not only on fashion but also on culture and society.
In a world where age often dictates relevance, Twiggy remains a beacon of inspiration. Her story is one of empowerment, showing that style has no expiration date and that self-expression is a lifelong journey. As she continues to grace magazine covers and collaborate with prestigious brands, Twiggy's legacy as a style icon is securely cemented, proving that true fashion is timeless.
As we look to the future, Twiggy's narrative encourages us all to embrace our unique styles and continue to reinvent ourselves, regardless of age. Her journey is not just a celebration of fashion but a testament to living life with passion, grace, and a flair for the extraordinary.