Peggy Claxton

Peggy Moffitt Claxton, a luminary in the world fashion and artistry, passed away on August 10, 2024, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 86. Born on October 2, 1937, in Los Angeles, Peggy's journey began in the neighborhood of Hancock Park, where she nurtured her artistic sensibilities and pursued her education at Marlborough, a prestigious all-girls school. Her quest for creative expression led her to the esteemed Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City, where she studied acting under the tutelage of notable figures such as Sydney Pollack and dance with Martha Graham. Among her classmates she remembered Suzanne Pleshette and Robert Duvall.

Peggy's career flourished as she became the primary model and muse for the visionary fashion designer Rudi Gernreich. Their partnership, beginning in 1962, was one marked by innovation and avant-garde artistry. The world became enamored with Peggy as she famously donned Gernreich's Topless Bathingsuit in 1964, a bold statement that transcended fashion and provoked societal dialogue. In the recollections she shared in "The Rudi Gernreich Book" (1991), co-authored with her husband, the renowned photographer William Claxton, she reflected on her unique approach to modeling. "I didn’t really model the clothes so much as perform them," she wrote, illustrating her perspective that each collection revealed a new act or character—a philosophy that showcased her innate creativity and theatrical flair.

Her talents extended beyond the runway, as Peggy graced the silver screen, appearing in Michelangelo Antonioni’s iconic film “Blow-Up” in 1966, where she captivated audiences with her presence. On December 1, 1967, her luminous spirit was captured on the cover of Time magazine alongside Gernreich and model Léon Bing, further solidifying her status as a cultural figure of her time.

Peggy's passions, however, were not confined to the fashion industry. She nurtured a profound love for ballet and dance, finding solace and joy in the expressive movements of the body. Her eclectic musical tastes spanned from the emotive strains of Tchaikovsky to the iconic melodies of the Beatles and Burt Bacharach, showcasing a versatility that mirrored her artistic endeavors.

A woman of charm and eloquence, Peggy’s personality shone brightly. She delighted in clever and nonsensical humor, creating an atmosphere where laughter flourished. Christmas held a special place in her heart, embodying for her the warmth of gift-giving and the universal call for peace on earth.

Peggy Moffitt Claxton is survived by her son, Christopher Claxton, who will carry forth her creative legacy. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, William Claxton; her mother, Mary Came Moffitt; her father, Jack Moffitt; and her sister, Babs Moffitt Albert.

In remembering Peggy, we celebrate a life woven with creativity, artistry, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of existence. Her legacy, imprinted upon the fabric of time, will continue to inspire generations to embrace their own expressive journeys.