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Remembering Peggy Moffitt: A 1960s fashion icon
A trailblazer in fashion and film
Peggy Moffitt, the iconic model and actress who became synonymous with 1960s mod fashion, passed away on Saturday in Beverly Hills at the age of 86. Known for her daring style and bold choices, Moffitt left an indelible mark on the fashion world, particularly through her collaboration with designer Rudi Gernreich.
The monokini moment
Moffitt’s most famous moment came in 1964 when she modeled Gernreich’s revolutionary topless bathing suit, known as the monokini. Captured by her husband, renowned photographer William Claxton, the image became a sensation. The monokini, held up only by slender straps, was a bold statement in an era when even bikinis were just starting to gain acceptance. The photo, first published in Look magazine and later in a more explicit version in Women’s Wear Daily, was banned in some countries despite Moffitt covering her breasts with her arms in some poses. Reflecting on the monokini, Moffitt once said, “It was a political statement. It wasn’t meant to be worn in public.”
From boutique to big screen
Born in Los Angeles, Moffitt initially aspired to be an actress. She took acting classes at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York, where she was taught by Sydney Pollack. Her first screen role was an uncredited appearance in ”You’re Never Too Young.” Paramount Pictures soon signed her to a contract, leading to roles in films like “Senior Prom” and “Girls Town.”
Moffitt’s filmography includes notable appearances in Michelangelo Antonioni’s “Blow-Up,” where she played a model in the 1966 classic about a fashion photographer. Other film roles included Franco Rossi’s 1962 cult film “Smog,” the French fashion satire “Who Are You, Polly Magoo?,” and an episode of “Batman” where she played Gernreich’s runway model. She also starred in the short fashion film “Basic Black.”
A unique look and lasting influence
Despite not fitting the conventional mold of a high fashion model, Moffitt’s distinctive look—characterized by her bold hair and makeup—perfectly complemented the brightly colored, modernist designs of the era. Her influence on fashion was further cemented when she appeared on the cover of Time magazine, sporting a severe geometric bob designed by Vidal Sassoon.
Personal reflections and legacy
Moffitt married William Claxton, famous for his photographs of jazz musicians, in 1959. Claxton passed away in 2008, and Moffitt is survived by their son, Christopher Claxton. Reflecting on her life and career, it’s clear that Moffitt was more than just a model; she was a trailblazer who challenged societal norms and left a lasting impact on the worlds of fashion and film.
For those interested in exploring more about Peggy Moffitt’s iconic moments, you can watch the trailer for “Blow-Up” here.
The cultural impact of Peggy Moffitt
Moffitt’s influence extended beyond fashion and film. Her bold choices and unique style resonated with a generation that was beginning to challenge traditional norms and embrace new forms of expression. The monokini, in particular, became a symbol of the changing attitudes towards women’s bodies and fashion. It was a statement of liberation and defiance, reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the 1960s.
A lasting legacy
Peggy Moffitt’s legacy is one of courage, innovation, and style. She dared to be different in a time when conformity was the norm, and in doing so, she paved the way for future generations of models and fashion icons. Her work with Rudi Gernreich and William Claxton remains a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of visionary creativity.
For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of 1960s fashion and the life of Peggy Moffitt, her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
In memory of Peggy Moffitt, we celebrate a life lived boldly and a legacy that continues to inspire.
