The iconic businesswoman and fashion influencer Iris Apfel, known for her eclectic and maximalist style, passed away at the age of 102. Apfel was born on August 29, 1921, and gained fame in her eighth decade of life for her unique fashion sense and colorful wardrobe.
Apfel’s spokesman confirmed her death at her home in Palm Beach, Florida, but did not provide a specific cause. The New York Times described her as a “matron of New York society” and an interior designer who left a mark on the world of fashion with her bold and bohemian style.
Throughout her life, Apfel continued to work as a businesswoman, collaborating with brands such as MAC and Eyebobs on various collections. In 2018, she published her memoir titled “Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon.”
Apfel’s influence extended beyond the fashion world, as she and her husband founded the fabric company Old World Weavers and decorated spaces for several U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton. In 2005, the MET’s Costume Institute showcased an exhibition in her honor titled “Iris Apfel: Rara Avis.”
In 2021, H&M collaborated with Apfel to celebrate her centenary, highlighting her love for affordable haute couture. Despite her passing, Apfel’s legacy as a designer and interior decorator known for her bold and creative designs will continue to inspire generations to come.