Remembering Iris Apfel
Embracing Eccentricity: Celebrating her Iconic Style
MAR 04, 2024
Style is attitude, attitude, attitude!
In fashion, few individuals leave as indelible a mark as Iris Apfel. With her fearless approach to style and unapologetic embrace of individuality, Iris captivated the fashion world and inspired countless individuals to express themselves boldly and authentically.
Iris Apfel, a New York society matron and interior designer, passed away on Friday March 1st at the age of 102 in her home in Palm Beach, Fla. Known for her eclectic and vibrant style, Iris was a trailblazer who defied conventions and redefined what it meant to be fashionable.
Her signature look, characterized by big, round, black-rimmed glasses, bright red lipstick, and short white hair, made her a standout figure at every fashion event she attended. But it wasn't just her distinctive appearance that garnered attention; her fearless attitude and irrepressible spirit truly set her apart.
Fashion you can buy, but style you possess!
"When you don't dress like everybody else, you don't have to think like everybody else," Iris famously said, encapsulating her philosophy of self-expression through style. She expressed herself, pushing the boundaries of fashion with her bold combinations of hippie vintage and haute couture, her penchant for finding treasures in flea markets, and embracing contradictions in her style choices.
In addition to her contributions to fashion, Iris was a renowned interior designer, working with prestigious clients like Greta Garbo and Estée Lauder. Alongside her husband, Carl Apfel, she founded Old World Weavers, a company that sold and restored textiles worldwide.
One of Iris's crowning achievements was the 2005 Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition "Rara Avis: Selections From the Iris Apfel Collection." The exhibition showcased 82 ensembles and 300 accessories from Iris's personal wardrobe, offering a glimpse into her eclectic and vibrant style.
You only have one trip. You might as well enjoy it.
But Iris's greatest legacy is inspiring others to embrace their individuality and creativity. Her life and work remind us that fashion is not just about following trends but about expressing ourselves authentically and fearlessly.
After watching the documentary "Iris," I found myself deeply inspired by her courage and unapologetic approach to style. Her willingness to embrace the unconventional and irreverent sense of humour resonated profoundly with me. She gave me the courage to accessorize the way I love, with big bobbles and statement pieces, and her playful attitude towards fashion reminded me not to take myself too seriously.
if you want to watch the documentary, it is available for rent on AppleTV
I always joked that I want to be her when I grow up. And though she may be gone, her legacy inspires generations to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their personal style.
Rest in peace, Iris. Your indomitable spirit and vibrant style will continue to inspire us all.
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