This English fashion icon, who set trends in the 1960s with her distinctive look and became a symbol of the era, remains as elegant as ever in her 70s. Today, fans are still in awe of her as she shows that true fashion never fades with age.
On September 19, 1949, this model, actress, and producer was born. By the time the ’60s rolled by, she was ready to revolutionize the fashion industry with her distinctive look and instantly recognizable style.
Portrait of the model in 1966. | Source: Getty Images
Her slim figure, pixie haircut, and striking eyes made her a global sensation and a symbol of a new era in modeling. Decades later, her influence still resonates in the fashion world, and fans are excited about how she has carried her iconic image into her 70s, maintaining the charm and elegance that first captivated the world.
The model posing for a photo on February 21, 1966. | Source: Getty Images
Far from slowing down, she remains active in her personal and professional life, embracing her age gracefully. The star often engages in various pursuits, including appearances on television, fashion collaborations, and public speaking.
The icon modeling watches in 1967. | Source: Getty Images
In September 2023, she collaborated with Vogue to recreate her Bert Stern original Vogue shoot from 1967. Despite her age, she flawlessly nailed the look as she noted, ” Everything came full circle for me in that moment.”
The model on the cover of Vogue in 1967. | Source: Getty Images
Fans immediately took to the comments section to share their thoughts. One wrote, “The most iconic of all the supermodels.” Another fan went down memory lane, writing, “I remember I was in 12th grade and did lower lash draw in and my sister got the short twiggy hair cut. You look amazing still. ❤️”
A shot of the model by Bert Stern for Vogue in 1967. | Source: Getty Images
As she maintains a vibrant lifestyle, her passion for fashion and zest for life remains as strong as ever. Fans are also excited about her journey through the decades, which showcases a fascinating evolution of style that began in the vibrant 1960s.
The model posing for Vogue in 1967. | Source: Getty Images
A Look Back: From the ’60s to Now
The model burst onto the fashion scene in the 1960s, becoming the face of a new era with her slim figure, short blonde hair, big eyes, and androgynous style.
The model wearing a 1920s-style beaded cap and dress in 1962. | Source: Getty Images
Discovered as a teenager, she quickly became an international sensation, embodying the youthful spirit of the decade. Her unique look broke the mold of traditional beauty standards, making her a trailblazer and a cultural icon.
The model boarding a TWA plane at Heathrow Airport in 1965. | Source: Getty Images
1960s: The Rise of a Supermodel
In the 1960s, her boyish figure, dramatic eyelashes, and pixie haircut set her apart from the curvier models of the time. She became the embodiment of the “mod” look.
Portrait of the model in 1965. | Source: Getty Images
Her influence extended beyond modeling; She became a symbol of the changing attitudes toward women’s fashion, representing freedom and youth.
The supermodel posing in a summer collection in 1968. | Source: Getty Images
1970s: Expanding Horizons
As the 1970s rolled in, she transitioned from modeling to acting and singing, showcasing her versatility. She embraced the era’s trends and showcased a softer, more natural look.
The supermodel at an event in Los Angeles, circa 1973. | Source: Getty Images
Her style evolved to reflect the laid-back vibe of the decade while still maintaining her unique edge. By 1977, her career flourished as an actress.
The supermodel dressed as Charles Dickens’s Little Nell Trent on “Merrie Olde Christmas,” circa 1977. | Source: Getty Images
She became known as a Broadway star, and her family and personal life also thrived. It was that year that she married American actor Michael Whitney.
The supermodel with her husband Michael Whitney in 1978. | Source: Getty Images
1980s: Family Life and More
The star and her husband welcomed a daughter. Sadly, by April 1983, when their daughter was four, the couple had become estranged. In September of that year, she lost her husband as he collapsed in a Manhattan restaurant due to a heart attack.
The model, Michael Whitney, and their week-old daughter Carly, leaving a hospital in London. | Source: Getty Images
At the time of his death, she was going on stage to perform her hit musical “My One and Only,” and was not told the sad news until she finished her set.
The model, actress, and singer during a performance with Tommy Tune in the musical “My One and Only” on Broadway, New York on November 7, 1983. | Source: Getty Images
Despite her loss, the model and actress’s fashion sense also matured. She adopted more classic and sophisticated styles while reflecting the decade’s trends.
The model at the performance of “Merchant of Venice” on January 4, 1989. | Source: Getty Images
1990s: Effortless Style in a Grunge Era
The 1990s saw her still ruling the fashion world. She embraced the minimalist and grunge trends of the era, often seen in simple, chic outfits. From plaids to scarves, the model showed versatility with her looks.
The model and actress wearing a blue dress and matching head wrap in 1994. | Source: Getty Images
She also loved her high-waisted and skinny jeans. Over the years, she proved her timeless appeal and adaptability.
The model and actress in a plaid jacket in 1997. | Source: Getty Images
2000s: Reinventing the Icon
In the 2000s, she continued to reinvent herself, embracing the fashion trends of the new millennium. She balanced modern styles with a nod to her iconic past, often wearing sleek silhouettes, statement accessories, and bold patterns.
The model on the runway for Gattinoni Presents Fashion Show in Milan on September 28, 2002. | Source: Getty Images
The model remained a fixture in fashion, taking on roles as a judge alongside Tyra Banks on shows like “America’s Next Top Model,” where she influenced a new generation of aspiring models.
The model and actress at the photocall for “Jack And The Beanstalk” in England on September 23, 2005. | Source: Getty Images
2010s: Embracing Timeless Elegance
As she entered her 60s, her style evolved into a timeless and elegant one. She often opted for tailored outfits and refined accessories, showcasing a sophisticated look that was true to her playful spirit.
The model at the photocall for M&S Woman in London on April 12, 2012. | Source: Getty Images
She continued to make public appearances, captivating audiences with her graceful aging and ongoing contribution to the fashion world. In this decade, she noted her style hadn’t changed much.
The model at The Fashion Awards in London on December 5, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
When planning her looks, she tended to start from her feet up. This is because her footwear depends on how much walking she’d be doing, which automatically helps her decide what to wear.
The model on day two of the Goodwood Revival in England on September 14, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
Before the decade ended, she received the Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire award for her services to fashion, the arts, and charity in 2019.
The model with her Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire award in London on March 14, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
2020s: Aging with Grace and Style
Now in her 70s, her style reflects a confident embrace of her age. She favors comfortable yet stylish clothing, often seen in chic blazers and classic colors.
While she maintains the iconic short hair, her makeup is softer, highlighting her natural beauty. Her look today blends the classic and the contemporary, demonstrating that style is ageless.
The model at the Johnstons of Elgin presentation during London Fashion Week on February 17, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
From the bold, youthful looks of the 1960s to her sophisticated style today, this icon’s fashion journey is a testament to her ability to adapt and evolve. She has transitioned seamlessly through the decades, each phase of her life marked by a distinct yet recognizable style.
While her look has matured, her essence remains unchanged — she continues to inspire with her timeless beauty, proving that true style is not about following trends but staying true to oneself.
The model at a photocall during the 76th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
Over the years, the model and actress born Lesley Hornby, famously known as Twiggy, has embraced a natural approach to aging, choosing to forgo cosmetic procedures like Botox in favor of aging gracefully.
Twiggy walks the runway at MAC Cosmetics’ “The Face Show” during London Fashion Week in September 2023. | Source: Getty Images
She has spoken candidly about her decision, expressing that she values authenticity and feels no pressure to alter her appearance. Her choice to embrace her natural beauty sets her apart in an industry often obsessed with youth.
Twiggy at Vogue World: London 2023. | Source: Getty Images
In 2016, she revealed, “I haven’t had plastic surgery but, if I ever felt the need, I would find a very, very good surgeon. I would never use Botox because, in my mind, it’s poison.”
Her natural approach to aging doesn’t just define her personal life — it’s also a key part of her enduring influence in fashion. Regarding her wardrobe, she prefers cobalt blue, purple, and orange while staying away from yellows because of her skin tone.
Twiggy, aka Dame Lesley Lawson, at the 68th BFI London Film Festival in London on September 4, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Twiggy’s natural approach to aging is a refreshing reminder that confidence and self-love are timeless. She also knows how to care for herself despite remarking that she’s low maintenance.
Twiggy’s recreated look for Vogue dated September 23, 2023. | Source: Instagram/twiggylawson
She swears by pilates, an exercise recommended by her osteopath after she suffered a bad back. Now that she’s a grandmother, Twiggy also knows how to relax. She does this with a glass of wine, preferably a Rose, especially during summer.
Irrespective of what she does, Twiggy once mentioned that she never goes on a diet. However, she’s mindful of what she eats and drinks lots of water.
Twiggy exemplifies what it means to age gracefully — staying true to her iconic image while evolving with poise and elegance. Her journey is a reminder that style is about celebrating who you are at every stage of life.
