Iris Apfel, a renowned fashion and style icon, has died at the age of 102. Known for her colorful and eye-catching style, Apfel was celebrated for her unique fashion sense and immense impact on the industry.
Born in New York City in 1921, Apfel was immersed in the world of fashion from a young age. Her mother owned a boutique, which exposed her to the art and creativity of the industry. Building on her passion for textiles and antique fabrics, Apfel co-owned a textile manufacturing company called Old World Weavers. Additionally, she worked on restoration projects and designed for the White House during the terms of six different presidents.
Apfel gained modern fame in 2005 when the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute dedicated a show to her called "Rara Avis," meaning "rare bird" in Latin. This catapulted her into the spotlight, and she quickly became popular on social media with millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok.
In 2019, at the age of 97, Apfel even secured a modeling contract with IMG, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one's passions. She continued to work and inspire others, staying true to her belief that retiring at any age is worse than death.
Apfel's husband, Carl, passed away in 2015, and the couple did not have any children. Despite the loss, Apfel remained resilient and continued to inspire others with her vibrant style and positive attitude towards life.
