If there's one singular fashion figure who is an endless source of wisdom and quotable thoughts, it's 93-year-old Iris Apfel. The fashion icon, a former interior decorator–turned-stylist, is known as much for her unconventional wisdom as for her eclectic sense of style—which is precisely why home décor and accessories site One Kings Lane teamed up with her for a special interview and sale of her personal collection.
Apfel chatted with the site about everything from her personal viewpoint on style to how her relationships with her mother and husband shaped her sartorial decisions. One Kings Lane also curated a giant sale of Apfel's amazing jewelry—including a Dior cuff, vintage turquoise brooches, and rhinestones galore. Sadly, the pieces are no longer available, but just looking at Iris's collection is pretty darn impressive.
Keep scrolling to read eight of Apfel's most memorable quotes!
"You have to look in the mirror and see yourself. If it feels good, then I know it’s for me. I don’t dress to be stared at. I dress for myself.”
"I think jewelry can change an outfit more than anything else. Transformation, punch, individuality: One or all of the above are why you should wear jewelry.”
"I had a big decorating business, and we used to go to Paris twice a year. We got to a point where my husband said, ‘We don’t have any more room; you can’t go to the flea market.’ So I thought, I’ll go, but I won’t buy furniture; I’ll buy jewelry.”
"My mother knew if you bought a couple of really good architectural outfits and put your money into accessories, you could create a million different looks. She taught that to me, which I think was invaluable.”
"These are things I love, things I’ve worn. I get more compliments on accessories than anything else. I think they’re kind of like herbs and spices. They give zest and zing to an outfit.”
"If there was a choice on spending a lot of money on accessories or dress, I always chose accessories. I think jewelry can change an outfit more than anything else.”
"I never had a fondness for gems or the extravagance of Harry Winston or Van Cleef & Arpels. I’ve always liked the more flamboyant, imaginative things. I lusted after costume jewelry. My husband was a very lucky man.”
"What’s my style is not your style, and I don’t see how you can define it. It’s something that expresses who you are in your own way.”
Curious for more stylish quotes? Read on for the 50 most inspiring fashion quotes of all time!
This post was updated by Aemilia Madden.
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