legendary New York designer and style icon Iris Apfel dies at 102

Iris Apfel, the renowned interior designer and fashion icon who gained widespread recognition in her later years, has passed away at the age of 102.

Her spokesperson, Stu Loeser, confirmed her death to multiple US outlets, stating that she died at her residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed.

Apfel was celebrated for her expertise in antique fabrics and often advised on restoration projects, including notable work at the White House. Her influence extended beyond her professional accomplishments; she became a subject of museum exhibitions and a documentary and even had a Barbie doll created in her likeness. In recent years, she appeared in campaigns for major brands such as H&M, eBay, and Citroën.

Known for her distinctive style characterized by bold accessories and a penchant for mixing patterns and textures, Apfel humorously referred to herself as “the world’s oldest living teenager” on her Instagram profile, where she amassed over 2 million followers. She famously quipped, “More is more, and less is a bore.”

In 2005, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York featured an exhibition titled “Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel,” showcasing her personal collection of vintage and designer items. Notably, Apfel personally styled the mannequins for the exhibit, infusing them with her unique flair.

Born Iris Barrel in Queens, New York, in 1921, she studied art history at New York University before pursuing further education in art school. She embarked on her career as a copywriter at Women’s Wear Daily and later ventured into interior design and textile with her husband, Carl Apfel.

Their textile firm, Old World Weavers, gained prominence for its restoration work and fabric reproductions from past centuries. Apfel’s dedication to her career contributed to her decision not to have children, as she explained in interviews.

Apfel continued to defy expectations and break barriers in her later years. At 91, she became the oldest cover star for Dazed Magazine, and at 101, she ventured into the beauty industry with a makeup line in collaboration with Ciaté London.

In reflecting on aging, Apfel emphasized the importance of embracing change and variety in life, rejecting the notion of stopping the clock. Her vibrant spirit and unapologetic style left an indelible mark on the worlds of fashion and design.