Iris Apfel
Iris Apfel is an American businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon, born on August 29, 1921. Known for her eclectic style and larger-than-life personality, she became an unlikely fashion icon later in life, celebrated for her bold and vibrant fashion choices.
Key Highlights:
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Early Life and Education: Iris Apfel was born in Astoria, Queens, New York. She attended New York University, where she studied art history. She later worked in various fashion and interior design roles, including for renowned designer Elinor Johnson and the Wertheimer’s Old Dominion.
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Interior Design Career: Apfel first gained recognition in the world of interior design. She worked on several notable projects, including the restoration of the White House interiors under President Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy. She and her husband, Carl Apfel, also founded Old World Weavers, a textile company specializing in luxury fabrics.
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Fashion Icon Status: Apfel became widely known for her distinct personal style, characterized by oversized glasses, vibrant colors, and a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. Her style is often described as bold, unique, and unapologetically eclectic. Despite being relatively unknown to the mainstream public earlier in life, she gained recognition in the 2000s when she became the subject of the fashion documentary Iris (2014), directed by Albert Maysles.
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Fashion Collaborations: In her later years, Apfel became a sought-after collaborator for brands. She teamed up with companies like H&M and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for various fashion and accessory lines, helping to bring her colorful aesthetic to a broader audience.
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Publications and Legacy: Apfel’s influence extends beyond fashion, with her vibrant personality and unique sense of style making her an inspiration for women of all ages. She has written books, including Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon (2018), where she shares her personal style philosophy and life experiences.
Her impact on the worlds of fashion and design is profound, and she continues to be a symbol of self-expression, individuality, and the belief that age should never be a barrier to creativity and style.