Witches, by the narrative love to revel in, defy norms. They stand out and often stand alone, crafting potions that challenge the system. The cauldron today, however, isn’t filled with eye of newt or toe of frog; it’s brimming with oversized glasses, exotic fabrics, and layers of chunky jewelry. In this modern witch’s tale, the enchantress goes by the name of Iris Apfel. Had she been born in a different era, pitchforks would’ve chased her audacity. Thankfully, she’s with us today. Iris is a September Virgo, she turned 102 years old on August 29. Sadly, we lost her on March 2, 2024. But it’s without a question that she will continue to inspire us…
Who is Iris Apfel?
In case you’ve been living under a non-decorated, monochromatic rock like a forest witch, Iris Apfel is a New York-based fashion icon, an interior designer, and—dare we say—an oracle of life wisdom. Born in 1921, Iris was conjuring magic long before most of us were twinkles in our ancestors’ eyes. She co-founded Old World Weavers, an interior design firm, with her husband Carl Apfel in 1950. Yes, you read that right—1950. Let that sink in.
Iris’ fame as an unlikely fashion icon erupted in the early 2000s when the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcased her personal collection of couture in an exhibit called “Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel.” Since then, she’s been a force we’ve all reckoned with.
Accidental Icon
Forget the minimalist, the traditionalist, or even the ostentatious. Iris is an incomparable category unto herself. Imagine pairing an elegant Dior jacket with some baubles you found at a flea market. Imagine five chunky necklaces paired with a plush coat, itself a cacophony of color and pattern. This is Iris’ world, a place where more is more, and ‘too much’ doesn’t exist in the lexicon.
Why does this matter? Iris breaks the shackles of ‘age-appropriate attire’ and stomps on the notion of ‘too old for this look.’ Her audacity sends ripples through an industry that often marginalizes women as they age. She laughs in the face of such constructs, inspiring us all to say, “You don’t like it? Well, I didn’t dress for you.”
The Spell of Authenticity
You can’t talk about Iris without talking about her indomitable social presence. She’s the agony aunt we never knew we needed. Her life advice, much like her fashion, is audacious, outrageous, and—most importantly—genuine. Instagram, often a highlight reel of inauthentic perfection, finds itself charmed by her authenticity. Whether she’s discussing self-esteem or the importance of individuality, she sprinkles her wisdom like a seasoned witch casting spells for the good of her coven.
The Irreverent Iris
Iris Apfel’s life and style are a rebellion against the cage society often builds around women. She is a feminist icon, not because she loudly declares it, but because she lives it. Age? Just a number. Beauty standards? Meant for shattering. Gender norms? Irrelevant.
Her message to the world, and especially to women, is one of audacious authenticity. Be yourself, in all your glorious, mismatched, and flamboyant splendor. Let people call you a witch, an oddball, or an outcast. Those who matter will see your magic.
In a world teeming with proverbial Stepford wives, be an Iris Apfel. Shake up the cauldron, mix your style potion, and dare the world to keep up with you. After all, the only rules that matter are the ones you set for yourself.
