Words Of Wisdom From Fashion Icon Iris Apfel

I admit it. I thought Iris Apfel had to be a little on the crazy side to wear all she wears. However, I sat down recently and watched “Iris,” a documentary on PBS about the 94-year-old New Yorker, and I was so impressed with her wisdom, clarity, and stamina. She is more than just an arm of bracelets.

I do believe her marriage of over sixty years has much to do with her longevity. They were very much in love and in sync. Her husband Carl passed on at the ripe age of 100. Until he died, they did everything together. But I also believe her longevity comes from loving her past and present careers. So, pile on the necklaces, get a cup of tea, and let’s enjoy some Iris-isms!

Eleven Fashion Quotes from Iris Apfel

 “Life is grey and dull, so you might as well have fun when you dress.”

“I say dress to please yourself. Listen to your inner muse and dress to take a chance. Wear something that says, Here I am today.”

“I see myself as the world’s oldest living teenager. Because I have such a good time, and because I try to get as much of a kick out of things as possible.”

“The day I don’t take accessories out of the box is the day I need to crawl into the box.”

“Fashion you can buy, but style you possess.”

“More is more and less is a bore.”

“You have to try it. You only have one trip. You have to remember that.”

“If you make a mistake in what you put together, the fashion police are not going to haul you into jail.”

“I don’t see anything so wrong with a wrinkle. It’s kind of a badge of courage.”

“If your hair is done properly, and you are wearing good shoes, you can get away with anything.”

“There’s no how-to road map to style. It’s about self-expression. And above all attitude.”

I could share several more, but I’ve decided to stop after a handful of my favorites.

Her style includes a zest and joy for life, her career and the people she loves. I discovered Iris and I have more in common than I realized. But her neck must be way stronger than mine! I tried to wear a heavy necklace recently and my neck hurt throughout the day. I honestly don’t know how she does it. But I hope I always maintain the type of zest and joy she has.

Have a colorful week, ladies. Stay inspired and thanks for being here!