Twiggy, born Lesley Hornby on September 19, 1949, in Neasden, England, is one of the most influential figures in fashion and entertainment. At 75 years old in 2025, she remains a cultural icon whose impact on style, film, and music has spanned decades. With an estimated net worth of $20 million, Twiggy’s career is a story of reinvention, resilience, and enduring influence.
Early Life and Family Background
Twiggy grew up in a working-class family as the third daughter of Nellie, a factory worker, and William, a master carpenter and joiner. She has two sisters, Shirley and Vivien. She attended Brondesbury and Kilburn High School, where she developed an interest in creativity and fashion. Despite her humble beginnings, her life took a dramatic turn when she entered the fashion world as a teenager.
Rise to Fame in the 1960s
The Swinging Sixties in London defined Twiggy’s ascent. At just 16, she cropped and dyed her hair, a bold move that caught the attention of photographers and journalists. Soon after, the Daily Express crowned her “The Face of ’66.” Her thin frame, boyish look, and striking eyelashes helped her stand out in an era of shifting beauty standards. With her then-boyfriend and manager Justin de Villeneuve (born Nigel Davies), Twiggy’s career took off globally. By 1967, she was modeling in the UK, the US, France, and Japan, becoming one of the first true international supermodels.
Transition to Acting
In 1970, Twiggy retired from full-time modeling to pursue acting. Her breakout came with the 1971 film The Boy Friend, directed by Ken Russell. Playing Polly Browne earned her two Golden Globes, including Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. This success proved she was more than a model. Over the next two decades, she acted in films like W (1974), There Goes the Bride (1980), Club Paradise (1986), and Madame Sousatzka (1988). She also made her Broadway debut in My One and Only, a performance that won her a Tony Award nomination.
Twiggy also ventured into television, appearing in shows like Princesses (1991) and later guest-starring in series such as Heartbeat. Her ability to adapt to different creative fields showcased her versatility.
Music Career
Alongside modeling and acting, Twiggy built a music career. She released singles in the 1960s before moving into albums. Her 1976 self-titled debut album included the hit single “Here I Go Again.” She followed with Please Get My Name Right (1977). In later years, she returned to recording with albums like Midnight Blue (2003), Gotta Sing Gotta Dance (2009), and Romantically Yours (2011). Though not as commercially dominant as her modeling career, her music added depth to her creative portfolio.
Television and Return to Fashion
Twiggy became a familiar face on television, hosting shows like Twiggy’s Jukebox in the 1970s and co-hosting This Morning in 2001. She later joined Tyra Banks as a judge on America’s Next Top Model from 2005 to 2007, bringing her industry insight to a new generation of aspiring models.
In 2005, Twiggy returned to modeling with a high-profile campaign for Marks and Spencer, re-establishing her relevance in the fashion industry. In 2012, she collaborated with the retailer on a clothing line, blending her iconic style with modern fashion.
Honors and Recognition
In 2019, Twiggy was honored with the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her contributions to fashion, the arts, and charity. This recognition cemented her legacy not only as a model but also as a cultural figure who helped shape modern British style.
Personal Life and Family
Twiggy’s personal life has seen both joy and loss. She married actor Michael Witney in 1977, and together they had a daughter, Carly, in 1978. Tragically, Witney died of a heart attack in 1983. In 1988, Twiggy married actor Leigh Lawson, and the couple still lives together in Kensington, London. Family has remained central to her life, balancing her career with motherhood and her long-standing marriage.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Twiggy’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $20 million. Her wealth comes from decades of modeling, acting, music, and television work. Endorsement deals, particularly with Marks and Spencer, significantly boosted her income. Broadway performances, films, and music royalties added further streams of earnings. Beyond her financial success, Twiggy has invested in building a brand that remains iconic more than half a century after her breakthrough.
Legacy
Twiggy’s story is one of transformation. From a teenage girl in North London to a global supermodel, award-winning actress, and Dame, she has continuously adapted to new opportunities. At 75, she remains a symbol of reinvention, proving that true icons never fade—they evolve.
