Fashion and Design Icon Iris Apfel Dies at 102
Iris Apfel, a renowned figure in the fashion world known for her unique and bold style, has passed away at the age of 102. Her death was confirmed by her commercial agent, Lori Sale, and announced on her Instagram page, which had just celebrated her 102nd-and-a-half birthday the day before. Apfel was celebrated for her distinctive approach to fashion, combining haute couture with oversized costume jewelry, and blending high-end pieces with thrift store finds.
Born on August 29, 1921, in New York City, Iris began her career in textiles and interior design with her husband, Carl, through their company Old World Weavers. Their work caught the attention of several U.S. presidents, leading to restoration projects at the White House. Apfel gained widespread recognition in the fashion industry later in life, especially following a 2005 exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, titled “Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel,” which showcased her eclectic wardrobe.
Apfel was known for her large round glasses, bright lipstick, and white hair, making her a standout figure at fashion shows. Her style was celebrated in museum exhibits and a documentary film, "Iris," by Albert Maysles. She often spoke about the importance of personal style over conventional beauty, famously saying, “I'm not pretty, and I'll never be pretty, but it doesn't matter. I have something much better. I have style."
In addition to her contributions to fashion and design, Apfel was active on social media, with nearly three million followers on Instagram and a presence on TikTok, where she shared her views on fashion and style. She enjoyed a late-in-life fame on these platforms, promoting her collaborations and sharing her belief that style is innate and a reflection of originality and courage.
Apfel continued to work and collaborate on various projects up until her death. She and her husband owned a textile manufacturing company, Old World Weavers, and worked on projects for high-profile clients, including Estee Lauder and Greta Garbo. Her influence extended beyond her own creations; she was involved in advertisements, designed a line of accessories and jewelry, collaborated with major brands like H&M, and even released a book titled "Accidental Icon," filled with her style musings.
Despite her age, Apfel remained a vibrant and active figure in the fashion world, often stating that retiring was akin to a fate worse than death. Her life and style continue to inspire those in the fashion industry and beyond, proving that individuality and a bold approach to life and fashion can leave a lasting legacy. Iris Apfel's impact on style and design will be remembered for its encouragement of personal expression and the breaking of conventional norms.