Iris Apfel, the celebrated interior designer, entrepreneur, and late-in-life fashion model, passed away at the age of 102 in Palm Beach. Known for her distinctive style and charismatic personality, Apfel’s remarkable life journey has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond.
Born Iris Barrel in 1921 in Queens, New York, Apfel’s passion for art and design paved the way for a remarkable career. After working as a copywriter for Women’s Wear Daily, she and her husband Carl founded a successful textile and fabric reproduction business in 1950. Their firm managed White House restoration projects for nine presidents, showcasing Apfel’s impeccable taste and work ethic.
However, it was Apfel’s unique sense of style that truly captured the public’s imagination. With her bushels of bracelets, piles of necklaces, and signature saucer-sized glasses, she became a fashion icon in her later years, earning the moniker of “geriatric starlet.” Her bold and eclectic approach to fashion challenged conventional norms and inspired countless individuals to embrace their own unique sense of style.
Apfel’s star continued to rise well into her golden years. In her 90s, she was teaching at the University of Texas at Austin, and at 94, she became the subject of a documentary by Albert Maysles, titled “Iris.” Her foray into professional modeling at the age of 97, represented by top agency shattered stereotypes about age and beauty in the fashion industry.
Throughout her life, Apfel remained unapologetically herself, never conforming to societal expectations or trends. Her autobiography, “Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon,” published in 2018, offered a glimpse into her extraordinary life and unwavering commitment to authenticity.
In a 2015 Apfel expressed pride in having inspired others to embrace their individuality. Her unique perspective on fashion and life served as a beacon of inspiration for people of all ages, encouraging them to embrace their true selves and celebrate their uniqueness.
As tributes pour in from around the world, it’s clear that Iris Apfel’s legacy will endure for generations to come. Her visionary approach to fashion, fearless creativity, and zest for life have left an indelible imprint on the world, reminding us all to embrace our individuality and live life to the fullest.
