Twiggy becomes Dame Commander of 2019 after receiving investiture from Prince Charles

Sixties fashion star Dame Twiggy has spoken about the “amazing” experience of being made a Dame Commander by the Prince of Wales who told her: “About time you got this.”

The supermodel, who is now a grandmother of three, said her 16-year-old self would probably “giggle” at the thought of receiving the honour.

Brought up in Neasden, north-west London, her success story started when she was plucked from obscurity when aged just 16 and became a global celebrity overnight.

The former model met Prince Charles during the ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Credit: PA

Dubbed The Face Of ’66 by the Daily Express, her four-year modelling career left its mark on the industry and her boyish, elfin look inspired a generation of girls.

After the Buckingham Palace investiture ceremony the model and actress said about Charles: “I’ve met him before he’s really nice and he said ‘congratulations, about time you got this, we’re all thrilled for you”.

Lesley “Twiggy” Lawson arrives at Buckingham Palace, with her husband Leigh, son Jason and daughter Carly. Credit: Yui Mok/PA

Speaking about receiving the honour from the heir to the throne she added: “It’s amazing when you think of all the things I’ve done in life.”

Holding her Dame Commander insignia, the 69-year-old celebrity, whose real name is Lesley Lawson, insisted on everyone using her famous nickname.

Former model Twiggy with an old photograph of herself. Credit: Michael Stephens/PA

She said: “Officially it’s Dame Lesley but call me Dame Twiggy.

“I think Dame Twiggy sounds best.”

The fashion evergreen was aptly dressed in a smart and chic three-piece suit by Stella McCartney.

She said about the British designer: “I’ve known her all my (sic) life, she texted me when she heard about the award and said ‘can I dress you?’ and I said ‘yes’.”