Forget ’90s supermodels Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, or even today’s fashion brat pack, Cara Delavigne, Kendall Jenner and the Hadid sisters; before there were supermodels, there was Twiggy. A skinny 16-year-old from London with the face of an angel, Leslie Twiggy Hornby became the world’s first supermodel and a veritable household name after being named The Face of ’66 by Daily Express. Over the following years, she clocked up several Vogue covers and even starred on David Bowie’s iconic Pin Ups album cover.
I always say fashion should be fun – try new things and enjoy.
Fifty years on and Twiggy is still inspiring her generation’s style choices in what has been dubbed ‘the Twiggy effect’. Research shows that women in their 50s, 60s and 70s are reaching for much more fashion-forward styles than ever before, after seeing women like Twiggy still looking fabulous in later life. Twiggy has turned the idea of dressing for your age on its head, and women are now choosing clothing and accessories based on their own preferences and lifestyle, rather than age. It’s an attitude that women want to emulate, and thanks to Twiggy’s brand new eyewear collection for Specsavers, they can. We spoke to the supermodel-turned-designer about her new collection: Twiggy for Aurora...
What is the secret of your youthful good looks?
I try to keep fit, eat healthily and keep my skin well moisturised. I’m also very lucky to be happily married with a lovely, close family.
How would you describe your style?
I love fun and stylish looks, and it’s very important to me to be comfortable. Also, being chic and stylish never goes out of fashion.
What is your favourite fashion tip?
Don’t get stuck in a rut – try new things.
How long have you worn glasses?
About 20 years. I need them for reading, driving and watching tv – everything really.
What is your favourite shape?
I have numerous pairs in different shapes and colours, as I love changing my glasses depending on what I’m wearing.
What has it been like designing your own eyewear collection?
I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to do my Twiggy for Aurora range. I’ve always wanted to design a range of eyewear and I hope that I can inspire other specs wearers. The glasses are each encrusted with gemstones in different colours, with a signature crystal on the tips of the sides, which is very chic.
What advice do you have for women who wear glasses?
Enjoy them – try different shapes and colours. Think of glasses as part of your style and overall look. I think colour around the face is fun.
Any other fashion or beauty advice?
I always say fashion should be fun – try new things and enjoy.
What is your ideal way to spend a day?
When I’m working I love being in my design studio with my team. If it’s leisure time – being with my family, cooking, sewing and doing jigsaws.
"Try different shapes and colours. Think of glasses as part of your style and overall look. I think colour around the face is fun."
Photography: Brian Aris. Image: Getty.
