Something, someone to make you fearless in your choices and not be bogged down by the ordinary but rather inspired by the extraordinary.
While watching a TV show and trying to copycat a character’s style is a no-brainer for some, it certainly doesn’t make for an original—it makes for a zillion one-dimensional fashionista clones in the same darn gladiator platforms toting the same “It” bag of the minute that will be passé before the reruns even start. Boooooring!
“When you overstudy things, you get uptight. Being relaxed is the best part of it. I like architectural clothes so I can embellish them myself. You can always switch things around and dress it up or down by the accessories you wear with them, “ says Ms. Apfel.
Iris Apfel is the tastemaker’s inspiration for an unparalleled mix of eclectic individuality that fuses haute couture with costume jewels and trinkets from who knows where. I would dare say that she is troubled with age-appropriate style as she in her 88th year! If you are not familiar with Ms. Apfel’s dose of whimsy and elegance, you should be-- you may even recognize her by her signature oversized round eyeglasses. Find your inspiration in a cuff, a color, a chance that she took to cement her personal style as a true fashion icon.
Dare to be you, that’s very Iris Apfel.
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Rare Bird of Fashion: The Irreverent Iris Apfel
On view October 17, 2009 to February 7, 2010
Peabody Essex Museum
East India Square
161 Essex Street
Salem, MA 01970-378
Book:
Rare Bird of Fashion: The Irreverent Iris Apfel
Conversation with Iris Apfel: online
Peabody Essex Museum presents more than 80 dramatic ensembles from the personal collections of legendary tastemaker and style icon Iris Apfel. Known for her eclectic mixing of haute couture with costume jewelry and exotic baubles, Apfel has inspired bold developments in the fashion industry through her spirited irreverence and pitch-perfect taste. Now in her 88th year, she continues to challenge visual culture with radical juxtapositions of disparate influences. These spectacular and unexpected wardrobe combinations are exhibited with inventive staging and playful displays that underscore Apfel's inexhaustible creative spirit.
Photos, this page only, Peabody Essex Museum
Published on October 14, 2009
