Fashion Icon Iris Apfel Dies at 102

         Fashion Icon Iris Apfel Dies at 102

Renowned American designer and fashion icon, Iris Apfel, has passed away at the remarkable age of 102. Recognized for her unique style characterized by cropped white hair, bold oversized glasses, vibrant lipstick, and statement chunky beads, Apfel captivated fashion enthusiasts for decades.

Having risen to prominence during the vibrant fashion scene of the 1980s and 90s, Apfel's influence extended far beyond those decades. With a career spanning over half a century, she graced the Paris fashion shows with her presence, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Beyond her iconic fashion sense, Apfel was also celebrated for her work with esteemed clientele, counting luminaries such as Greta Garbo and Estée Lauder among her patrons.

The news of her passing was shared with her extensive following of nearly three million on Instagram, accompanied by a poignant image of Apfel adorned in her trademark oversized round glasses. Her legacy as a fashion maven and cultural icon will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

Tommy Hilfiger, the iconic US designer, joined the chorus of voices honoring Iris Apfel, lauding her as a trailblazer and visionary in the realm of textiles and fashion. He emphasized her enduring legacy, stating that she will be remembered throughout history.

According to Hilfiger, Apfel's meteoric rise to becoming a global fashion icon was fueled not only by her artistic prowess but also by her unparalleled influence. He highlighted her remarkable ability to touch the lives of countless individuals with her boundless generosity and innate charisma.

American musician Lenny Kravitz and Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham added their heartfelt tributes to the chorus of admiration for Iris Apfel.

Apfel, born into a Jewish family in New York in 1921, initially delved into the study of art history and focused on interior design, with a particular emphasis on textiles.

Her career trajectory saw her making significant contributions as an interior designer over several decades, including involvement in prestigious restoration projects at the White House. However, it was in her 80s when she emerged as a trendsetter, captivating the fashion world, and astonishingly, she pursued professional modeling at the age of 97.

Lori Sale, Apfel's agent, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the fashion icon, describing it as "the honor of a lifetime."

Sharing insights into their professional relationship, Sale reminisced about Apfel's daily inquiries, eagerly seeking new projects and opportunities. According to Sale, Apfel's unwavering passion for her craft was evident in every interaction.

Sale portrayed Apfel as a visionary with a unique perspective, symbolized by her iconic oversized spectacles. Through these lenses, Apfel perceived the world as a vibrant tapestry of color, pattern, and possibility.

Apfel's artistic flair, Sale emphasized, had the transformative power to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary. Her remarkable ability to seamlessly blend the unconventional with the elegant was nothing short of enchanting, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond.

In 2014, Iris Apfel took the spotlight in a captivating documentary titled "Iris," crafted by renowned director Albert Maysles.

Reflecting on her unique approach to fashion in a 2015 interview with BBC Newsnight, Apfel shared her philosophy that dressing up should be a joyous experience, akin to a playful adventure.

"For me, it's not just about clothes; it's about creativity," she remarked. Emphasizing the importance of self-expression, Apfel encouraged others to embrace their creative instincts when it comes to fashion.

When questioned about the concept of age-appropriate attire, Apfel dismissed rigid rules, asserting that if one can carry off a look confidently, then it's perfectly suitable, regardless of age.