Centenarian style icon Iris Apfel, renowned for her oversized owlish glasses and eclectic fashion sense, has passed away at the age of 102, according to an announcement on her Instagram account.
Famously described as a "geriatric starlet," Apfel gained widespread recognition as a textile designer and fashion celebrity, achieving peak fame in her 80s and 90s.
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Known for her flamboyant interior design style, Apfel was a fixture at Paris fashion shows for over five decades, captivating audiences with her cropped white hair, bold glasses, and vibrant accessories.
Her Park Avenue apartment was a testament to her lifelong passion for design, housing an extensive collection of pieces from renowned 20th-century designers.
Apfel's unique style garnered admiration from fashion luminaries such as Alexander Wang and Isaac Mizrahi, and her influence extended beyond the fashion world, with collaborations spanning from Barbie dolls to makeup lines with MAC Cosmetics.
A major milestone in Apfel's career came with the release of Albert Maysles's documentary "Iris" in 2014, followed by the publication of her autobiography, "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon," in 2018.
Throughout her life, Apfel remained a staunch advocate for individuality and creativity, urging others to embrace their uniqueness and explore new experiences without fear of societal norms.
Born Iris Barrel in Queens in 1921, Apfel pursued her passion for art and fashion, eventually co-owning Old World Weavers with her husband, Carl Apfel.
Tributes poured in from around the world following Apfel's passing, with musician Lenny Kravitz praising her mastery of life and Old Navy honoring her as a "forever icon."
Apfel leaves behind a legacy of fearless self-expression and unwavering dedication to her craft, inspiring generations to embrace their authenticity and pursue their passions with boundless creativity.
