Is Iris Apfel still alive or dead, American businesswoman, interior designer passed away

Step into the extraordinary world of Iris Apfel, a multifaceted personality often celebrated as a businesswoman, interior designer, and unmatched fashion icon. Renowned for her eclectic and eccentric style, Apfel’s impact extends far beyond her impressive wardrobe.

Her distinctive style is a harmonious blend of designer pieces paired with oversized accessories, each telling a story of its own. Characterized by colorful necklaces, XXL bracelets, and her iconic oversized glasses, Iris Apfel has cultivated a look that is unmistakably hers. While her eyewear collection has become legendary, acquired through countless adventures in flea markets, Iris views fashion as only a small facet of her remarkable life.

Though she is recognized as a style icon, Apfel’s true passion lies beyond the realm of clothing. She effortlessly combines high and low-cost pieces, vintage finds, and contemporary trends, emphasizing her commitment to personal style over fleeting fashion influences. Her philosophy revolves around the idea that elegance doesn’t demand a hefty price tag—rather, it’s about skillfully combining elements.

Born into a family where a love for fashion was ingrained, Apfel’s upbringing in Queens, as the daughter of an eccentric decorator, greatly influenced her. Her mother’s fondness for accessories left a lasting impact, shaping Apfel’s belief that a simple black dress, when paired with diverse accessories, can yield an array of unique outfits.

Apfel’s journey took her from studying art history at New York University to working for Women’s Wear Daily and engaging in interior design projects for prestigious clients and hotels, including the Plaza Hotel. In 1948, she married Carl Apfel, and together, they founded Old World Weavers—a textile company specializing in luxurious fabrics. The couple’s company became a platform for Iris’s global exploration in search of rare and precious objects.

Despite officially retiring in 1992 when their company was sold, Iris Apfel continued to make a mark in the world of restoration. Notably, she worked on projects at the White House for nine U.S. presidents, showcasing her enduring influence on the intersection of fashion, design, and history.