Legendary Fashion Icon Iris Apfel Dies at Age 102
By Your Name
Today’s Date
Last Updated: 20 minutes ago
Renowned American designer and fashion icon Iris Apfel passed away at the age of 102, leaving a lasting legacy in the fashion world.
Known for her distinctive cropped white hair, oversized glasses, bright lipstick, and chunky beads, Apfel became a prominent figure in the fashion scene during the 1980s and 90s.
Apfel’s unique sense of style and fashion attracted attention at Paris fashion shows for more than five decades, where she became a recognizable face.
Throughout her career, she served celebrity clients, such as Greta Garbo and Estée Lauder, while also captivating a massive following on Instagram, with nearly three million dedicated followers.
Iconic designer Tommy Hilfiger paid tribute to Apfel, emphasizing her remarkable influence on the world of textiles and style, stating, “Iris Apfel has become a world-famous fashion icon because of her incredible talent, not only as an artist but as an influencer.”
Apfel’s impact extended beyond the fashion industry, as her magnetic personality and magic touch left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.
Iris Apfel’s fascinating journey began in 1921, born into a Jewish family in New York. While studying the history of art, she specialized in interior design, particularly textiles.
Prior to rising to fame in her 80s and becoming a professional model at 97, Apfel thrived as an interior designer, contributing her expertise and creativity to restoration projects, including those at the White House.
Industry figures and fans alike mourn the loss of a legendary innovator and trendsetter. Famous personalities, including Lenny Kravitz and Ted Lasso actress Hannah Waddingham, expressed their admiration for Apfel and the indelible mark she left on the world of fashion.
Throughout her life, Apfel’s ingenuity and unparalleled vision reshaped mundane items into extraordinary fashion statements, seamlessly blending the unconventional with the elegant.
Her artistic eye and distinct choice of oversized eyewear allowed her to see the world as a kaleidoscope of color, an intricate canvas of exquisite patterns and prints.
In a touching tribute, Apfel’s agent Lori Sale reflected on the experience of working with her, describing it as “the honor of a lifetime.” Sale remembered Apfel’s relentless desire to create and her artistic flair, always seeking inspiration for her never-ending projects.
Apfel’s impact on the fashion world will undoubtedly leave an everlasting imprint, inspiring countless individuals to unleash their creativity and embrace the joy of self-expression without age constraints.
Apfel’s inspiring story was documented in the 2014 film “Iris,” directed by the acclaimed Albert Maysles.
Iris Apfel believed that dressing up should be a fun and playful experience, allowing individuals to express their creativity freely. She advocated for embracing one’s artistic side, encouraging everyone to indulge in a bit of creativity.
When questioned about age-appropriate dressing, Apfel maintained that if one can carry it off with confidence, then it is undoubtedly appropriate.
