An Ode to Iris Apfel!
Glasses: Amazon / Teal silk scarf: Amazon / Dress: Boden, similar here 0-22 / Necklace: Amazon / Bangles: Amazon
"I have rarely met someone as vivid, as alive, as vital, vivacious, irreverent, joyous, relevant, and needed as Iris. She breathes young air, thinks young thoughts, and gathers no dust."
-Dries Van Noten
As I sit down to pen this epistle about the late designer Iris Apfel, I wonder. How does one summarize 102 years of laughter, whimsy, and adventure?
Let's begin at the pinnacle: her 100th birthday celebration. The photos below speak wonders.
I first discovered Iris when I encountered her book at the library a few years ago. Titled, "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon," it is a visual delight. Simply open the book and a smile will fly onto your face!
Her book--and her life--are uplifting and inspiring in so many ways. That's why I've chosen to write about her. I know that you, my dear reader, are always striving to live better.
The first of many inspiring things is her 68-year marriage to her "sweet prince," Carl. They worked side by side for decades. Their design firm, Old World Weavers decorated the White House for nine presidential administrations.
"He pushed me into the limelight and then basked in my success. He got much more of a kick from the accolades I received than I did."
Along with her signature bold glasses and red lip, Iris has become an international icon. The Metropolitan Museum of Art had contacted her about a fashion exhibition. In fall 2005, the Met's Costume Institute featured a curated mix of her personal clothing and accessories collection.
Iris loved bright color, and wasn't afraid to wear it. She dressed for herself. Her pieces varied from European flea market finds to haute couture. Thousands flocked to see the wardrobe of this American original.
"After Rara Avis opened at the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, people kept telling me I was an overnight sensation. 'You're right,' I would reply. 'Except my overnight was seventy years!'"
The Met appreciated how powerfully Iris accessorized her outfits, and so do I. Scroll for some of her most iconic looks.
At the Anna Sui Spring 2016 fashion show
At an arts gala in NYC, 2008
With husband Carl at a fashion gala in 2012.
At an industry award ceremony in 2013.
At the NYC premiere of her documentary in 2015.
At the Los Angeles screening of her documentary "Iris".
"If I'm going to have to wear glasses, I might as well have GLASSES."
In addition to a documentary and many fashion industry awards, Iris also had jewelry, clothing, and handbag lines. They featured bold colors and shapes for everyday wear. Snap up a piece on ebay here.
At the launch party for her handbag collection at Henri Bendel in 2012.
At a dinner previewing her accessories collection for HSN in 2017.
Ready to bring some whimsy into your wardrobe, too? Here are some jewelry pieces with a sense of humor. I think Iris would approve.
"Having a sense of wonder, a sense of humor, and a sense of curiosity--these are my tonic. They keep you young, childlike, open to new people and things, ready for another adventure."
-Iris
On tour for her book "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon"
Find more of Iris' whimsical designs in her 2023 book, "Colorful: A Treasure Trove of Inspiration, Influences, and Ideas."
For brilliant outfit photos, check out "Rare Bird of Fashion: The Irreverant Iris Apfel" by Eric Boman.
May you, too, have the courage to be yourself and dress for yourself.
And may we all be blessed with such a long life of love and laughter!
Thank you for reading
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