Iris Apfel, fashion icon and interior designer extraordinaire, left an indelible mark on the style world with her bold, unapologetic approach to fashion. Even after her passing in 2023 at the remarkable age of 103, her influence continues to inspire. What was her secret to maintaining such a vibrant, relevant style throughout her century-long life? Let’s dive into the wisdom of a woman who redefined aging with flair.
The power of unwavering individuality
At the core of Apfel’s eternal style was her commitment to embracing individuality without apology. “When you don’t dress like everybody else, you don’t have to think like everybody else,” she famously declared. This philosophy wasn’t just about clothes—it was about cultivating an authentic self-expression that transcended trends and time.
Fashion historian Dr. Eleanor Kingston notes, “Iris wasn’t following fashion; she was creating her own language of style. Her confidence in her uniqueness became more powerful with each passing decade.”
The maximalist philosophy: “More is more”
While minimalism dominated much of contemporary fashion, Apfel championed the opposite approach with her famous mantra: “More is more, and less is a bore.” Her fearless mixing patterns and textures created visual symphonies that shouldn’t have worked—but somehow always did.
This approach extended beyond aesthetics into a life philosophy. Apfel believed in embracing abundance in experiences, relationships, and creative expression.
Accessories as the cornerstone of personal style
Perhaps nothing defined Iris Apfel’s look more than her bold accessories: Oversized glasses, chunky bangles, and layers of statement necklaces became her signature. These weren’t mere embellishments but the foundation of her style philosophy.
“I say it’s better to be happy than well-dressed,” Apfel once said, though she managed to be both simultaneously. Her distinctive eyewear became so iconic that museums displayed them alongside couture pieces.
Age as opportunity, not limitation
Remarkably, Apfel’s most significant fame came after age 80, proving style has no expiration date. She signed a modeling contract at 97 and continued collaborating with major brands well into her centenarian years.
“Don’t obsess over your age. It’s just a number,” she advised. “I put my heart and soul into what I do.” This perspective transformed aging from something to fear into an opportunity for continued relevance and creative expression.
The art of curating a personal collection
Apfel was a lifelong collector, treating fashion as an ongoing curation rather than seasonal consumption. Her wardrobe blended high-end designer pieces with flea market finds, creating looks that were impossible to replicate.
Celebrity stylist James Worthington observes, “What made Iris special wasn’t budget or access—it was her eye. She could spot the extraordinary in the ordinary and elevate it through context and combination.”
Style as an expression of inner vitality
Beyond the physical elements, Apfel’s eternal style stemmed from her style as a reflection of attitude—curious, joyful, and engaged with the world around her.
Her approach teaches us that lasting style isn’t about chasing youth but about expressing continued vitality. Each outfit communicated her unwavering interest in life, art, and connection.
The transformative power of statement pieces
Apfel believed in the power of statement jewelry and accessories to transform even the simplest outfit. Her collection included:
- Oversized ethnic necklaces from global travels
- Vintage brooches worn in unexpected combinations
- Colorful bangles stacked in joyful abundance
- Handcrafted pieces that told stories of different cultures
In essence, Iris Apfel’s secret wasn’t a technique but a mindset—one that embraced joy, authenticity, and fearless self-expression regardless of age or trends. Her century-long style journey reminds us that true fashion immortality comes not from chasing youth, but from the continuous, bold expression of an ever-evolving self.