Iris Apfel: 102+ Words For 102+ Years

Celebrating The Life Of The Iconic Fashionista

Iris Apfel (August 21, 1921 - March 1, 2024)

I can’t remember the first time I ever saw Iris Apfel.

She seemed to appear out of nowhere. And yet somehow always seemed to be there. Maybe because she was.

Her life story has been part of the literal tapestries (and textiles) of American History.

Here’s what I wrote last night when I heard about her passing, at age 102:

Mrs. Apfel had many trips around the sun.
Mrs. Apfel reminded so many to have fun.

Thank you, Mrs. Apfel.
Rest in peace. Rest in style.
You made this world a better place.

Wishing you much love and a safe trip…
Clint

FLOWERS FOR IRIS

To help myself grieve and honor her colorful legacy, I made these digital homages:

THE ESSENCE OF IRIS IN 102+ WORDS

Iconic, Avant-Garde, Influential, Centenarian, Copywriter, Dedicated, Extraordinary, Cultured, Adaptable, Visionary, Champion, Buyer, Pioneering, Courageous, Vibrant, Expressive, Cheerleader, Notable, Effervescent, Confident, Artistic, Unpredictable, Motivational, Witty, Daring, Determined, Charismatic, Trailblazer, Muse, Persevering, Stylish, Unapologetic, Ever-Evolving, Empowering, Unforgettable, Transformative, Creative, Bohemian, Empathetic, Spirited, Radiant, Quirky, Authentic, Bold, Whimsical, Actress, Impactful, Groundbreaking, Irreverent, Effervescent, Ambassador, Unconventional, Sartorial, Loyal, Wise, Maximalist, Legendary, Compelling, Explorer, Tenacious, Recognizable, Dynamic, Glamorous, Colorful, Innovative, Maverick, Memorable, Designer, Independent, Fearless, Entrepreneur, Enigmatic, Funny, Stylist, Adventurous, Passionate, Unique, Captivating, Self-Assured, Trendsetter, Joyful, Approachable, Ambitious, Playful, Magnetic, Shopper, Honest, Indomitable, Timeless, Tastemaker, Eccentric, Enchanting, Charming, Fierce, Purposeful, Eclectic, Forward-Thinking, Dear, Resilient, Inspirational, Provocative, Fashion-Forward, Cherished

Ms. Apfel joins a short list of creatives who lived long lives and became the subjects of stellar documentaries that continue to inspire long after they’re gone. Ironically, all three that come to mind lived in New York City and were likely well-acquainted within within their fashion and social circles. Also, the docs about them were released just a few years apart, in the early 2010s:

• Iris (2014)
  by Albert Maysles

• Bill Cunningham New York (2011)
  directed by Richard Press

• Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel (2012)
  directed by Lisa Immordino Vreeland

”Color can raise the dead,” Iris Apfel once claimed. Sadly, it can’t.
But color can make life more fun.

I’ll be celebrating Iris and remembering her legacy today…

Thanks for reading!
Clint

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MORE CANDLES + FLOWERS + TRIBUTES

• IRIS APFEL’S LIFE DISPELS THE MYTH THAT AGE AND COMPETENCY ARE INTRINSICALLY LINKED (FORBES)

• IRIS APFEL: JOYFUL ICONOCLAST WHO BROKE ALL THE RULES WITH INCREDIBLE TASTE (THE GUARDIAN)

• DESIGN DOYENNE IRIS APFEL HAS DIED AT 102 (VOGUE)

• IRIS APFEL, EYE-CATCHER WITH A KALEIDOSCOPIC WARDROBE, DIES AT 102
  (NEW YORK TIMES)

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