Explain Iris Apfel in 500 words
Iris Apfel is a fashion icon, interior designer, and businesswoman known for her bold and eclectic sense of style. Born in 1921 in Queens, New York, Apfel has become a prominent figure in the fashion world for her unique and fearless approach to dressing. With her signature oversized glasses, layers of colorful jewelry, and mix of high and low fashion pieces, Apfel has captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and designers alike.
Apfel's love for fashion and design began at a young age. She studied art history at New York University and attended the University of Wisconsin, where she met her husband, Carl Apfel. Together, they founded Old World Weavers, a textile company that specialized in reproducing historic fabrics for clients such as the White House and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Through their work, the couple traveled the world, collecting textiles and artifacts that would later inspire Apfel's personal style.
Despite her success in the design world, Apfel did not become a household name until later in life. In 2005, she was the subject of an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art titled "Rara Avis: Selections from the Iris Apfel Collection," which showcased her extensive collection of clothing and accessories. The exhibit brought Apfel to the attention of the fashion industry, and she quickly became a muse for designers such as Dries Van Noten and Albert Kriemler of Akris.
Apfel's distinctive style has earned her a legion of fans and admirers, who are drawn to her fearless approach to fashion. She is known for mixing vintage and designer pieces, as well as for her love of bold colors, patterns, and textures. Apfel has said that she sees fashion as a form of self-expression and creativity, and she encourages others to embrace their individuality through their clothing choices.
In addition to her work in fashion, Apfel is also a successful interior designer. She has decorated homes for clients around the world, including the White House for nine different presidents. Her eclectic and maximalist style is evident in her interior design work, which often features vibrant colors, bold patterns, and unexpected combinations of furniture and accessories.
Despite her advanced age, Apfel shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to be a fixture on the fashion scene, attending events such as New York Fashion Week and collaborating with brands like MAC Cosmetics and Swarovski. In 2018, she became the oldest person to have a Barbie doll created in her likeness, further solidifying her status as a fashion icon.
In conclusion, Iris Apfel is a true original in the world of fashion and design. Her fearless approach to style, her love of color and texture, and her commitment to individuality have made her a beloved figure in the industry. With her larger-than-life personality and unapologetic sense of self, Apfel continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.