The fashion world mourns the loss of the iconic Iris Apfel, who passed away at the age of 102. Her Instagram page shared the news with a photo of Apfel beaming in a black and gold gown, showcasing her trademark black glasses, red lips, and nails.
Stu Loeser, a spokesman for her estate, confirmed her passing at her Palm Beach, Fla. home, though the cause of death remains undisclosed. Lenny Kravitz and Ted Lasso actress Hannah Waddingham also paid their tribute.
Tributes poured in on social media, with users expressing admiration for her legendary status and unique style. Apfel’s vibrant fashion sense and oversized glasses made her a style icon, inspiring an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in 2005.
In 1948, Apfel married Carl Apfel, with whom she ran a textile firm until their retirement 44 years later. Carl passed away at 100 in 2015.
Throughout her illustrious career, Apfel contributed to various design restoration projects, including significant work at the White House for nine presidents spanning several decades.
Her legacy as a style maven and design visionary will continue to inspire generations to come. US designer Tommy Hilfiger was among those to pay his heartfelt tribute as he praised Apfel while calling her an “innovator and leader” in the world of textiles and style, who “will go down in history”.
