Iris Apfel: A Creative Force in Fashion and Interior Design

There are few people in the world of celebrity that I am truly blown away by. Impressed by talent, yes - often. But not truly blown away by the level of awe inspiring talent, and dedication to just being a super interesting human being that makes things move and gets attention.

The world of fashion and design are morning the loss of one such person - Iris Apfel, the nonagenarian style icon known for her eclectic fashion sense, oversized glasses, and vibrant personality, who passed away this weekend at the magical age of 102 and a half years old.

Iris was a businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon known for her eclectic style and vibrant personality with a fantastic life of stories lived well. Born in 1921, in Astoria, Queens, New York, she embarked on a fashion journey that would eventually make her a globally recognized figure, especially in her later years.

With her oversized glasses, bold use of color, and mix of high-end and thrift store finds, Iris championed the idea that personal style is about self-expression and creativity, regardless of age - and that getting ready for the event should be treated as a bigger deal than the event itself.

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Incomparable, Iconic, and Irreverent: Iris Apfel

A beacon of creativity and self-expression, Iris's influence extended beyond the realms of fashion into interior design, where she left an indelible mark with her bold patterns and colors.

In her early career, Iris worked in the fashion industry, including a stint at Women's Wear Daily and for interior designer Elinor Johnson. She also launched Old World Weavers with her husband and love of her life Carl Apfel, a textile company that became renowned for its high-quality fabrics, reproductions, and restorations, and worked on several White House restoration projects.

Her collaborations with brands like HSN, Mattel, MAC Cosmetics, Hugo Boss, Airbnb, Zenni, Etsy, Ebay, Macy's, and Ruggable brought her unique vision of style to the masses, while her work on White House art and restoration projects alongside 9 First Ladies showcased her expertise in interior design. Iris's legacy as a fashion maven and a proponent of living life colorfully will continue to inspire generations to come, encouraging them to embrace their individuality with confidence and joy.

“Iris Apfel has become a world-famous fashion icon because of her incredible talent not only as an artist, but as an influencer. She has had an amazing effect on so many people with her huge heart and magic touch with everyone she meets. She will go down in history as an innovator and a leader in the world of textiles, style and innovation!” -??Tommy Hilfiger

Her legacy extends beyond her collaborations. She was the subject of the documentary "Iris" (2014) by legendary filmmaker Albert Maysles, which explored her life, philosophy, and influence on fashion and design. Her contributions to fashion and interior design, along with her philosophy that personal style and joy should know no age limits, have left an enduring impact on both industries.

Iris Apfel passed away as a revered icon, remembered not only for her contributions to design and fashion but also for her spirited approach to life and unwavering individuality.

"You cannot be interesting if you're not interested."??- Iris Apfel

But Wait, There's More!

For the latest insights into celebrity branding and the intersections between entertainment and entrepreneurship, stay tuned to our blog at Hollywood Branded.? Also check out the articles our team wrote below or listen to our weekly podcast.

Michael Lieberman dives into the unique blend of marketing genius and fan engagement epitomized by pop-up events in Los Angeles, focusing on the innovative For Your Consideration campaigns that seek to influence Emmy voters in the article The Marvelous Marketing Value Of Pop Up Activations.

Reese Bradley explores the strategic evolution of product placement in marketing, emphasizing its importance in creating lasting consumer engagement through the integration of brands into entertainment, guided by consumer psychology and innovative trends for optimizing campaign effectiveness in the article The Psychology of Product Placement.

As always, reach out with any questions or to discuss how to take the first steps to brand pop culture!

- Stacy Jones, CEO + Founder Hollywood Branded