Twiggy

Twiggy is the professional name of Dame Lesley Lawson (born Lesley Hornby), a British model, actress and singer.

Twiggy is the professional name of Dame Lesley Lawson (born Lesley Hornby), a British model, actress and singer. She became a defining fashion figure of the 1960s and is widely regarded as one of the world’s first supermodels. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2019.

Early life and modelling career

Born Lesley Hornby in Neasden, London on 19 September 1949, Twiggy began modelling as a teenager. Her distinctive look—slim build, large eyes and short haircut—quickly associated her with the 1960s Mod fashion scene and made her one of the era’s best-known style figures. She rose to fame as a teenage model and is often described as one of the first supermodels.

Acting and television work

After her modelling breakthrough, Twiggy transitioned into film, theatre and television. Her screen debut in *The Boy Friend* earned her major award recognition, including Golden Globe Awards. She later appeared in stage productions and worked as a television presenter and judge.

Public image and influence

Twiggy’s appearance became synonymous with youthful, androgynous fashion trends of the 1960s. Her slim build, large eyes and short haircut helped define the Mod look, and she has remained a prominent cultural reference point in discussions of modelling and beauty standards.

Honours and later career

Twiggy continued to be active in fashion and media projects in later decades, including campaigns and television work. In 2019, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to fashion, the arts and charity.