Peggy Moffitt, the iconic 1960s actor and model renowned for wearing Rudi Gernreich’s famous topless bathing suit, passed away on Saturday in Beverly Hills at the age of 86. Her death was attributed to complications from dementia, as confirmed by her son, Christopher Claxton.
Moffitt’s most famous image, captured by her husband, celebrated photographer William Claxton, featured her in Gernreich’s daring monokini, a bathing suit held up only by slender straps and lacking a top portion. The 1964 photograph, first published in Look magazine and later in a more explicit version in Women’s Wear Daily, was banned in several countries despite Moffitt’s arms partially covering her breasts in some poses.
Initially working at a Beverly Hills boutique known for pop art fashion, Moffitt was approached by Gernreich to model his provocative design. Although she initially refused to wear the suit in public, she later described it as a political statement rather than a fashion choice.
Born in Los Angeles, Moffitt pursued acting, studying at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York under Sydney Pollack. Her film career included roles in “Senior Prom,” “Girls Town,” Michelangelo Antonioni’s “Blow-Up,” and Franco Rossi’s “Smog,” among others. She also appeared in the French fashion satire “Who Are You, Polly Magoo?” and a memorable episode of “Batman” as a Gernreich model.
Known for her unconventional look, Moffitt’s bold hairstyle and makeup complemented the vibrant, modernist fashion of the era. She also made an impact on fashion history by appearing on the cover of Time magazine with a geometric bob by Vidal Sassoon.
Moffitt married William Claxton in 1959, who passed away in 2008. She is survived by their son.
