The world of fashion has lost a true icon with the passing of Iris Apfel at the age of 102. Known for her bold and eclectic style, Apfel was a trailblazer in the industry, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be fashionable. With her oversized glasses, layers of jewelry, and vibrant mix of colors and patterns, she became a symbol of individuality and self-expression.
Apfel's influence extended far beyond the realm of fashion; she was a champion for diversity and inclusivity in an industry that often prioritizes youth and conformity. Her fearless approach to style inspired countless people to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their own personal flair.
Born Iris Barrel in 1921, she was brought up in Queens, New York. The daughter of a successful small business owner, she studied art and art history before working as a copywriter for Women's Wear Daily.
With her husband Carl, Apfel started a textile and fabric reproduction business in 1950. Her firm managed White House restoration projects for nine presidents, ranging from Harry Truman to Bill Clinton.
She called ripped denim “insanity” and criticized those who wear athletic clothes for everyday activities, saying, “Athletic wear should be worn at the gym.”
She said those with style are expressive and self-aware.
"You have to be original, but not original to the point where you’re nutsy," Apfel said. "I think you have to be true to yourself, know yourself, not be a trend follower. You’ve got to take a few risks."
pfel’s fame in her later years included appearances in ads for brands like M.A.C. cosmetics and Kate Spade. She also designed a line of accessories and jewelry for Home Shopping Network, collaborated with H&M on a sold-out-in-minutes collection of brightly-colored apparel, jewelry and shoes, put out a makeup line with Ciaté London, an eyeglass collection with Zenni and partnered with Ruggable on floor coverings.
In a 2017 interview with AP at age 95, she said her favorite contemporary designers included Ralph Rucci, Isabel Toledo and Naeem Khan, but added: "I have so much, I don't go looking." Asked for her fashion advice, she said: "Everybody should find her own way. I'm a great one for individuality. I don't like trends. If you get to learn who you are and what you look like and what you can handle, you'll know what to do."
"She became a beacon for so many people," jewelry designer Alexis Bittar said in a statement shared by Sale. "Through living her life on her own terms it messaged to women that they don't need to hide in the shadows as they age, they actually can continue to glow and get better at what they do and look like."
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