Twiggy, known for her elfin face and big blue eyes, made a bold move when she chose a pixie hairstyle, creating a unique look that has been copied for decades.
Although Twiggy changed the fashion industry with her youthful style, she recently shared that she never actually wanted the androgynous buzzcut that became her signature look in the Swinging Sixties. She was just too shy to say no to a famous hairstylist at a fancy salon.
As she celebrates her 74th birthday on September 19, let’s take a trip back to the 1960s when Twiggy first introduced the baby doll styles we still love today!
In 1966, Twiggy, born Lesley Hornby in Britain, was seeking a trendy new look to kickstart her modeling career. At only 5-foot-6, she was considered too short to make it in the competitive fashion world.
Reflecting on her upcoming 74th birthday, the former supermodel recalled getting her shoulder-length hair styled for test photos at London’s House of Leonard. There, she met the famous British stylist Leonard Lewis, known professionally as Leonard of Mayfair.
Lewis was searching for models to try his new crop haircut, and Twiggy was the perfect fit.
In a recent guest appearance on Jessie Ware’s podcast, “Table Manners,” Twiggy, the former style icon, revealed that she never wanted to have her hair cut short.
“I went in to have it shampooed and set, and Leonard saw me. He said, ‘Let me try my new haircut on you,’” Twiggy told Ware during the podcast. “I’d been growing my hair, and for a moment, I wasn’t sure if I wanted it cut. But I was in this very fancy salon in Mayfair and felt too shy to say no, so I just nodded.”
The next day, Twiggy went back to the salon and sat in Leonard’s chair, preparing herself for the change.
“I was there for seven hours. He cut it, then I went out, had it colored, and came back for more cutting. It was crazy,” she said with a laugh.
Although the androgynous look wasn’t what Twiggy was aiming for, she quickly understood why Leonard was a famous stylist.
After Leonard perfected Twiggy’s short blonde haircut, British photographer Barry Lategan took her pictures.
“Leonard put one of the photos up in the salon, and a journalist from the Daily Express named Deirdre McSharry saw it while getting her hair done,” Twiggy explained. “That’s how it all started. When that haircut and photo happened, it was a pivotal moment for me.”
The pixie cut made her large blue eyes stand out, and she emphasized them with mascara on her lower eyelashes.
In a chat with Vogue, Twiggy shared the inspiration behind her famous eye makeup: “I was always experimenting with makeup at home. I had a rag doll with spiky eyelashes, so I bought false eyelashes and created my own unique look.”
Twiggy, the former supermodel, shared that when she was young, she liked to rebel a bit. On weekends, she would wear makeup and miniskirts to Saturday night mod clubs with her friends, even though her school was very strict.
“I went to a grammar school where we wore uniforms, and makeup wasn’t allowed,” Twiggy said. “So on weekends, my friends and I would play with makeup like most teenage girls.” This is how her unique makeup style developed, especially her iconic eye look.
A few weeks after the photoshoot for the Daily Express, some now-famous black-and-white pictures of Twiggy appeared in the paper with the headline “Twiggy—The Face of ’66.” This launched her modeling career.
The next month, Twiggy did her first shoot for Vogue, and her life quickly became very busy. She became a major figure in mod fashion and inspired many women. While still a teenager, she even became the first celebrity to have a Mattel Barbie doll modeled after her.
Over the next few years, Twiggy became closely associated with the famous British designer Mary Quant. Mary Quant changed fashion with short skirts, giving women the freedom to show their legs.
After a few years of modeling, Twiggy retired in 1970 and started acting in movies and on stage, as well as singing.
Twiggy starred in several movies, including “The Boy Friend” in 1971, a role that won her two Golden Globes, and “Club Paradise” in 1986, where she acted alongside Robin Williams.
She also judged on “America’s Next Top Model” and created a fashion line for Marks & Spencer. She appeared in many of the brand’s billboard ads.
In 2011, Twiggy released an album called “Romantically Yours,” which features cover songs like “Blue Moon,” “They Can’t Take That Away from Me,” and “Right Here Waiting.” Her daughter, Carly Lawson, born in 1978, sang on some of the tracks.
Still active in the fashion world, the beautiful Twiggy was an ambassador for L’Oreal and works with other brands as a designer.
These days, the famous Twiggy is busy with her own podcast called “Tea with Twiggy.” Each week, she talks with her famous friends in a relaxed and personal way.
Despite all her success, Twiggy, one of the most well-known faces of her time, says her greatest achievement is her relationship with her amazing daughter.
Twiggy’s daughter, Carly, lost her father, actor Michael Witney, when she was just five years old. He passed away during Carly’s fifth birthday celebration. After that, Carly was raised by her mom, Twiggy, and Twiggy’s second husband, Leigh Lawson, whom she married in 1988.
“Family is my number one priority,” said Twiggy, who is also a grandmother. “It always has been, even when Carly was little. If something didn’t work for Carly, I didn’t do it. We went everywhere together, and that’s why we’re so close now. The other day, Carly said, ‘I can’t remember a time when you weren’t there, Mum,’ and that’s because I was always there. Even when I traveled, she came with me.”
Many women envy Twiggy for how well she pulled off that pixie cut in the 1960s! She looked gorgeous then and still looks amazing now.
What do you remember about the Swinging Sixties? What’s the most daring hairstyle you’ve ever tried?
Share your stories and let’s show Twiggy some love on her birthday!
If you enjoyed reading about how Twiggy’s style has evolved, check out how Catherine Deneuve looks today. She also had her big break in the 1960s.
76-Year-Old Susan Sarandon Criticized for Her Clothing – Her Perfect Response to Haters
In a world where age often comes with societal expectations about how one should dress and present themselves, 76-year-old Susan Sarandon continues to defy these norms, sparking both admiration and criticism. Recently, the iconic actress faced backlash over her fashion choices, but her response was as empowering as it was graceful.
In a world where age often comes with societal expectations about how one should dress and present themselves, 76-year-old Susan Sarandon continues to defy these norms, sparking both admiration and criticism. Recently, the iconic actress faced backlash over her fashion choices, but her response was as empowering as it was graceful.
Susan Sarandon is no stranger to the spotlight. With a career spanning decades, she has not only captivated audiences with her performances but has also become a cultural icon known for her outspoken nature and commitment to various social causes. At 76, she remains a symbol of individuality, often opting for bold, vibrant outfits that reflect her unique style.
Recently, after appearing at a public event wearing a daring ensemble, Sarandon faced a wave of criticism on social media. Many commenters questioned her fashion choices, suggesting that her clothing was inappropriate for her age. However, instead of shying away or apologizing, Sarandon stood her ground and delivered a powerful message that resonated with many.
In response to the backlash, Sarandon took to her social media accounts to share her thoughts. With a mix of humor and assertiveness, she addressed her critics directly. “I dress for myself, not for anyone else,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of self-expression at any age. “If you don’t like it, that’s your problem, not mine.”
Her words struck a chord with fans and followers alike. Sarandon’s message was clear: personal style should not be dictated by age, and everyone has the right to express themselves freely. She highlighted the need for women, especially, to embrace their bodies and choices without fear of judgment.
Sarandon’s stance is part of a larger conversation about ageism and how society often imposes restrictive norms on older individuals, particularly women. By unapologetically showcasing her style, she challenges these outdated views and encourages others to do the same.
In an era where many women feel pressured to conform to certain standards as they age, Sarandon’s confidence serves as an inspiration. Her ability to wear what makes her feel good rather than what is deemed “appropriate” showcases a refreshing shift in attitudes towards aging and fashion.
Throughout her career, Susan Sarandon has been an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. From her roles in films that tackle societal issues to her activism in real life, she has consistently used her platform to promote messages of strength and independence.
By addressing the criticism she received, she not only defends her choices but also uplifts countless women who might feel constrained by societal expectations. Her response encourages a broader dialogue about age, self-acceptance, and the freedom to express oneself.
Susan Sarandon’s recent experience highlights the ongoing battle against ageism in society, particularly regarding how older women are perceived and judged based on their appearance. Her perfect response to critics serves as a reminder that fashion knows no age limits and that self-expression should always take precedence over conformity.
As Sarandon continues to navigate her career and personal style with authenticity, she inspires others to embrace their individuality, regardless of what others may say. After all, true beauty lies in confidence and the ability to be unapologetically oneself.
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