Iris Apfel- Style Protege

“If you have to be all things to all people, you end up being ‘nothin’ to nobody.’ The way I dress may be ‘different’ or ‘eccentric’ to some who feel the need to label, but that’s of no concern to me. I don’t dress to be stared at; I dress for myself. When you don’t dress like everyone else, you don’t have to think like everyone else.” – Iris Apfel 

Believe it or not, 39 year old me looks up and deeply admires a 98 year old fashion icon. Iris Apfel is the epitome of what I aspire to be. I learned to be bold and stand out in my self expression because of Iris Apfel. I’m all for trends but they can only get you so far. Style requires different levels of creativity. In creativity is where you find differences because it’s all about individuality. When you dress for yourself it takes you to an entirely different level of freedom and I love it!”

Photo Credit: Architectural Digest

I think style is in your DNA, but it requires work. You can’t just sit there. If you have the possibility of a great operatic voice and you don’t train it, nothing will come of it. So if you’re lucky enough to have potential, you should work at cultivating it.” – Iris Apfel 

Most of us have style in our DNA and the reason why I respect Iris so much is because she doesn’t sell you a dream. Style is not about spending tons of money. You do have to study fashion, work at crafting your style, practice it,  read about it and visit all types of stores from vintage/2nd hand to high end retailers. It’s only in doing all of those things, you will receive the knowledge to help you figure out how to be style conscious. Some people do need help in finding what their style is. If that’s you, look into getting a stylist or wardrobe consultant. We are here to help you take your style to the next level.

 “I never expect anything. I just feel things in my gut and I do them. If something sounds exciting and interesting I do it — and then I worry about it later. Doing new things takes a lot of energy and strength. It’s very tiring to make things happen, to learn how to master a skill, to push fears aside. Most people would rather just go with the flow; it’s much easier. But it’s not very interesting.”- Iris Apfel 

This is my favorite quote from Apfel. Life is all about being happy and doing what excites you. For me- that sweet spot is what I wear, how I help others find items to wear, giving advice, studying my craft, honing in on my creativity and never getting comfortable. You have to stay ahead and on top of fashion to continue to be passionate about it. If the world of fashion is your thing- NEVER lose your fire…no matter how old you are.

Thank you Iris for all of your life lessons, advice and being my role model!

Photo Credit: Vogue