Iris Apfel: The Unyielding Queen of Eccentric Style
Stepping into the world of Iris Apfel is akin to stepping into a vibrant, eclectic museum—a realm where fashion, art, and the spirit of adventure collide. At a glance, Iris celebrates the extraordinary, a woman who has never let conventions dictate her sense of style or her zest for life. But to merely dub her a fashion icon would be a disservice to the rich tapestry of experiences she's woven over the years.
Born on August 29, 1921, in Astoria, Queens, Iris Barrel Apfel’s journey into the world of fashion started early. Though she studied art history at the University of Wisconsin, her natural flair for style later shot her into the limelight. Alongside her husband, Carl Apfel, she co-founded Old World Weavers, an interior designing firm that even caught the attention of the White House. Over the years, nine successive presidents benefitted from their unique touch.
But it was only in her later years that Iris became a fashion household name. A 2005 exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, titled “Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel,” propelled her into stardom. This showcase of her wardrobe—filled with vivid colours, oversized accessories, and a blend of haute couture with flea market finds—mesmerized the public and fashion critics alike. Iris, at the age of 83, had suddenly become a sensation.
Iris's style is an embodiment of her spirit. Her oversized round glasses—almost as iconic as the lady—magnify her optimistic worldview. Every piece of clothing, every chunky necklace, and every bangle stacked on her wrist tells a story. For Iris, fashion is not about trends but about self-expression. And she wears her life experiences, journeys, and unyielding passion for art in every ensemble.
More than her attire, what's truly captivating about Iris Apfel is her attitude. In a world obsessed with youth, Iris is a testament to the idea that age is just a number. Her wit remains sharp, her spirit undaunted, and her style unparalleled. Her boldness extends beyond clothes. It's evident in her words, her actions, and her decisions.
Her influence on fashion, design, and beyond is undeniable. However, her more extraordinary legacy might be her ethos. Iris encourages us to be true to ourselves, experiment fearlessly, and cherish authenticity. She remarked, “When you don’t dress like everyone else, you don’t have to think like everyone else.” In her vibrant glory, Iris Apfel is not just a fashion icon but a beacon of individuality in a world of conformity.