Fashion icon and self-proclaimed “senior starlet” Iris Apfel died on Friday (March 1) at the age of 102, a spokesperson for Apfel’s estate confirmed the news. new york timesMeanwhile, a short statement shared to her Instagram account also revealed her death, with the caption: “Iris Burrell Apfel, August 29, 1921 – March 1, 2024.”
Apfel has always been known for her flamboyant style, which included a vibrant color palette, layered jewelry, and her signature round glasses paired with a bold red lip, but she also worked in the textile industry and designed interiors. It took me several decades to do so. A genuine pop culture sensation. Along the way, she made meaningful connections with people from all walks of life, and it didn’t take long for Apfel’s celebrity friends to flood the internet with tributes to her late legend.
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Lenny Kravitz was also among the first to pay tribute, writing: “You learned how to live. Thank you for your energy and inspiration.” Molly Ringwald described the Apfel as a “rare and beautiful bird,” while Viola Davis commented on the sad news, calling it “Godspeed.”
Fashion designer Donna Karan, who celebrated Apfel’s 102nd birthday with her in August, penned a heartfelt message to her friend on Instagram, pushing her outside of her sartorial comfort zone. He praised Iris for giving it to him. “@iris.apfel had a passion for fashion like no other. If I had to name the best dressed woman in the world, it would be Iris. From head to toe. , colors, jewellery, and wearing the most beautiful details. No one understood style like she did,” Karan wrote alongside a photo of the pair.
“She inspired me to paint more in color and not the usual black and white.” “The love that surrounded her will be with her forever.” I am very grateful for the wisdom you have taught me. This is not goodbye, let’s meet again.” Iris, you will always be in my heart and I can’t thank you enough for the beautiful memories. ”
Maria Shriver also shared a lengthy tribute to Apfel on X (formerly Twitter), recalling the “amazing” life she led.
“She really did it all. She was a businesswoman, a fashion model, a fashion icon, a university professor, a documentary star, and a Barbie doll. Iris said that age is just a number. and truly proves that we only live once and we all need to live,” she wrote, adding: “She passed away today at the age of 102, but she actually had more unfinished business – a book written about her life and key moments” colorful It comes out in August. So colorful! Thanks for the inspiration, Iris! ”
