Peggy Moffitt, a name synonymous with the iconic fashion era of the 1960s, passed away at her Beverly Hills home at the age of 86. Known not only for her striking looks but also for her avant-garde style, Moffitt left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Her gamine, modern appearance, marked by her pale skin, harlequin eye makeup, and Vidal Sassoon haircut, set her apart in an industry dominated by traditional standards of beauty.
In 1964, Moffitt caused a sensation by posing in a topless swimsuit designed by Rudi Gernreich. The swimsuit, resembling a schoolboy’s shorts with thin suspenders, generated controversy and condemnation from various quarters, including the Vatican and the Kremlin. However, Moffitt’s fearless embrace of this daring look paved the way for a more liberated and progressive approach to fashion.
Despite her success as a model, Moffitt initially aspired to be an actress. In the 1950s, she studied acting in New York alongside future Hollywood stars like Robert Duvall and Suzanne Pleshette. Moffitt had a brief stint as a contract player at Paramount, appearing in supporting roles in films alongside renowned actors such as Jerry Lewis and Cyd Charisse. Her foray into modeling came about when Rudi Gernreich approached her while she was working at a boutique in Rodeo Drive.
Moffitt’s partnership with photographer William Claxton, her husband, was a testament to their creative synergy. Claxton’s distinct style of photography, often capturing Moffitt in Gernreich’s avant-garde designs, resulted in some of the most iconic images of the era. Their collaborations extended beyond the realm of fashion photography and included the groundbreaking fashion video “Basic Black: William Claxton w/ Peggy Moffitt,” recognized as a pioneering work in the genre.
Born and raised in Hollywood, Moffitt was immersed in the world of entertainment from an early age. Her father, a screenwriter during the Golden Age of Hollywood, instilled in her a love for the arts. Moffitt’s impact on the fashion industry transcended her modeling career, influencing a generation of models and designers. Twiggy, the face of Swinging ’60s London, acknowledged Moffitt’s influence, noting that she taught her the importance of embodying more than just a pretty face in the world of modeling.
Peggy Moffitt’s legacy as a trailblazer in the fashion industry and her fearless approach to style continue to inspire and resonate with audiences today. Her creative collaborations, bold choices, and unwavering commitment to her craft have solidified her status as an icon of the ’60s era and a timeless muse for generations to come.
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