Early Life and Background
Iris Apfel was born on August 29, 1921, in Astoria, Queens, New York. Her birth name was Iris Barrel. She grew up in a Jewish family; her father, Samuel Barrel, was in the glass business, and her mother, Sadye, of Russian descent, owned a boutique. From a young age, Iris was exposed to fashion and design, significantly influencing her future career.
Education and Early Career
Iris attended New York University, where she studied art history. She later took art courses at the University of Wisconsin. After her formal education, Iris started her career in the fashion industry, working for “Women’s Wear Daily,” a prominent fashion magazine. She also assisted the renowned illustrator Robert Goodman, gaining valuable experience and insight into the fashion world.
Marriage and Business Ventures
In 1948, Iris married Carl Apfel, and together they founded the textile company Old World Weavers in 1950. Their business was renowned for its high-quality fabrics and historical reproductions. This venture not only solidified Iris’s status in the design world but also became a significant part of her identity. The couple traveled extensively, sourcing unique textiles and drawing inspiration from various cultures, which enriched their business and personal style.
Interior Design and the White House
Iris Apfel’s reputation as an interior designer grew alongside her textile business. She worked on numerous high-profile projects, including the White House interiors for several Presidents of the United States. Her contributions spanned the administrations of Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, and Clinton. Iris’s unique approach to design, characterized by her bold use of color and eclectic style, made her a sought-after designer.
Becoming a Fashion Icon
Throughout the years, Iris Apfel became known not just for her design work but also for her distinctive personal style. She was often seen wearing large, round glasses, vibrant clothes, and layers of bold accessories. Her look defied conventional fashion norms and celebrated individuality and creativity. Her fashion sense garnered attention from both American and international media, cementing her status as a fashion icon.
The 1990s and Early Retirement
In 1992, Iris and Carl closed Old World Weavers and retired from their business. However, retirement did not mean a withdrawal from the fashion world for Iris. She continued to be a prominent figure in the industry, recognized for her enduring style and influence. In 2005, the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York hosted an exhibition titled “Rara Avis: The Irreverent Iris Apfel,” celebrating her unique fashion sense. The exhibition was a resounding success and traveled to various locations, including the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach and the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts.
Later Years and Continued Influence
In 2014, Iris Apfel was the subject of a documentary by Albert Maysles, simply titled “Iris.” The film premiered at the New York Film Festival and was released by Magnolia Pictures in 2015. It provided an intimate look at her life, career, and enduring impact on fashion.
On August 1, 2015, Iris’s husband Carl passed away, ending their 67-year-long marriage. Despite this personal loss, Iris continued to influence the fashion world. In 2016, she appeared in a commercial for the Citroën DS3 car, further expanding her reach to a global audience. That same year, she received the Women Together Special Award of the Year at the United Nations and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Pioneer Award for her contributions to fashion.
Becoming a Nonagenarian Model
Iris Apfel’s remarkable journey took another significant turn in 2019 when, at the age of 96, she signed a modeling contract with IMG Models, becoming the world’s oldest model. This milestone highlighted not only her unique beauty and style but also her unyielding spirit and relevance in the fashion industry.
Centennial Celebrations and Beyond
In 2021, Iris celebrated her 100th birthday, marking her as the only model and influencer actively working at such an advanced age. Her centennial year was a testament to her enduring influence and the timeless nature of her style.
Death and Legacy
Iris Apfel passed away on March 1, 2024, at the age of 102. Her death marked the end of an era, but her legacy lives on through her contributions to fashion and design. Iris’s life story is a testament to the power of individuality and the impact one person can have on an entire industry.
Nuances and Historical Context
Iris Apfel’s rise to fame is not just a tale of personal success but also a reflection of broader social and cultural shifts. Her work in the White House during multiple presidencies highlights her ability to adapt to different styles and preferences, showcasing her versatility as a designer. Her personal style, characterized by its eclectic and unapologetically bold nature, challenged traditional notions of beauty and fashion, advocating for self-expression and authenticity.
Influence on Modern Fashion
Iris Apfel’s influence extends beyond her lifetime. Her approach to fashion—viewing it as an art form and a means of self-expression—resonates with contemporary movements that celebrate diversity and individuality. Her signature look, with its mix of high and low fashion, antique and contemporary pieces, continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world.
Iris Apfel’s Wisdom
One of Iris’s most enduring legacies is her philosophy on style and life. She often emphasized the importance of understanding oneself and not being afraid to stand out. Her quotes, such as “The key to style is learning who you are, which takes years. There’s no how-to road map to style. It’s about self-expression and, above all, attitude,” resonate with people of all ages, encouraging them to embrace their uniqueness.
Conclusion
Iris Apfel’s life and career are a testament to the impact of creativity, individuality, and perseverance. From her early days in New York to her status as a global fashion icon, Iris remained true to herself, influencing countless people along the way. Her contributions to design, her distinctive personal style, and her indomitable spirit ensure that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Iris Apfel’s story is not just about fashion; it’s about the power of self-expression and the importance of living life with passion and purpose. As we remember her, we celebrate a life well-lived and a style that will never be forgotten.
