From 1950 to 1992, Iris Apfel, an American businesswoman, interior designer, fashion icon, and actress, worked alongside her husband, Carl, in their business. During her successful career in textiles, she obtained significant deals, including a long-term contract with the White House that lasted through nine presidential administrations.
Iris Apfel Bio Summary
Full name: Iris Apfel
Age: 102 years old (as of March 2024)
Height: 168 cm
Weight: 55 kg
Birthdate: 29 August 1921
Died: 1 March 2024
Birthplace: Queens, New York, United States
Nationality: American
Spouse: Carl Apfel (m. 1948–2015)
Profession: American businesswoman and interior designer
Who was Iris Apfel?
Iris was an American entrepreneur and the world’s most senior fashion consultant. She was often spotted sporting bold colors, complemented by eye-catching necklaces and noticeable accessories, along with her signature oversized glasses. Apfel has been dedicated to the fashion industry since the very beginning and has maintained her enthusiasm to this day.
Career
Iris Apfel attended New York University to study art history and later continued her education in art at the University of Wisconsin.
Apfel’s professional journey started with her role as a copywriter at Women’s Wear Daily, where she honed her talent for discovering one-of-a-kind pieces by helping interior designer Elinor Johnson decorate apartments for resale.
In 1950, she and her spouse established Old World Weavers, a company dedicated to reproducing antique fabrics and procuring textiles from Europe.
Iris Apfel‘s professional endeavors involved the restoration of multiple designs, spanning across nine presidential administrations at the White House. Additionally, she embarked on frequent travels to gather non-Western handcrafted garments for prestigious occasions.
After joining the University of Texas at Austin as a visiting professor in 2011, Apfel began working on various partnerships, including one with WiseWear for smart accessories.
She also released her biography in 2018. In recognition of her achievements, Mattel created a Barbie doll in her image in the same year. And at the impressive age of 97, she signed a modeling deal with IMG in 2019.
In 2005, Apfel’s life took a major turn when The Met’s Costume Institute chose her as the focal point of an exhibition called Rara Avis: Selections from the Iris Apfel Collection.
Due to a cancellation, the planned event was scrapped, but curator Harold Koda had a brilliant idea to reach out to Apfel and feature her acclaimed collection of costume jewelry.
The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art presented a curated exhibition showcasing the fashion collection of Iris Apfel. The mannequin was dressed in clothing and accessories that reflected Apfel’s signature style. The documentary ‘Iris,’ created by Albery Maysles, has also highlighted the life of Iris.
Iris Apfel & Carl Apfel’s Love Story
During the 1940s, Apfel and her husband Carl crossed paths and eventually established a textile business called Old World Weavers. Their expertise was in replicating antique fabrics, which led them to secure a deal with the White House.
Iris and Carl Apfel tied the knot on February 22, 1948, and remained happily married for 67 years until Carl’s death at the age of 100 on August 1, 2015. The couple decided not to have children, citing the demanding nature of their careers which involved frequent travel. Iris, in particular, did not want their children to be raised by a nanny.
Throughout nine administrations, they provided their services to various presidents. Apfel was affectionately given the titles “First Lady of Fabric” and “Our Lady of the Cloth” during her time there.
Apfel and her spouse embarked on journeys around the world, exploring various destinations in pursuit of distinctive fabrics, exquisite garments, and exclusive home decor items to support Apfel’s additional role as an interior designer.
Iris Apfel’s Cause of Death
Iris Apfel, known for her vast knowledge of textiles, interior design, and unique fashion style, has died at 102 years old. Lori Sale, her business representative, praised her as “remarkable.”
The reason for her passing has not been revealed. The announcement was also made on her official Instagram account which boasts 3 million followers.
Net Worth
According to recent estimates, as of March 2, 2024, her net worth is estimated to be around $22 to $25 million, showcasing her impressive accomplishments and lasting impact in the field.
