Peggy Moffitt, Actor and Model for Iconic Topless Bathing Suit Photo, Dies at 86

Peggy Moffitt, the actor and model renowned for her iconic 1960s mod style and Rudi Gernreich’s daring topless bathing suit design, passed away on Saturday in Beverly Hills at the age of 86.

Her death was due to complications from dementia, as stated by her son, Christopher Claxton, to the New York Times.

Moffitt’s husband, famed photographer William Claxton, captured the photo that catapulted her to fame. The 1964 image, featuring a monokini held up by thin straps with no top portion, became a cultural sensation. While it was widely discussed for its boldness, it was also controversial and banned in several countries, even though her breasts were covered by her arms in some poses.

Working at a trendy Beverly Hills boutique, Moffitt was initially approached by Gernreich to model the monokini. Although she agreed to pose, she made it clear she would never wear it publicly. She later explained that the monokini was intended as a political statement, not everyday wear.

Born in Los Angeles, Moffitt pursued acting and studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York, where her acting teacher was Sydney Pollack. She made her debut in an uncredited role in “You’re Never Too Young.”

Paramount Pictures signed her to a contract, and she subsequently appeared in “Senior Prom” and “Girls Town.”

Moffitt also starred in Michelangelo Antonioni’s 1966 classic “Blow-Up,” portraying a model in the film centered on a fashion photographer. Her filmography includes roles in Franco Rossi’s cult film “Smog,” the French satire “Who Are You, Polly Magoo?” and an episode of “Batman” where she played a runway model.

Moffitt defied the traditional high fashion model look with her dramatic hair and makeup, perfectly complementing the bold, modernist designs of the 1960s.

She made another significant impact on fashion by appearing on the cover of Time magazine, showcasing a severe geometric bob haircut designed by Vidal Sassoon.

Moffitt married William Claxton, best known for his photography of jazz musicians, in 1959. He passed away in 2008. She is survived by their son.