Celebrating Iris Apfel
Born in 1921 Iris Apfel is the fashion icon who continues to prove that how you age is up to you. Known for her colourful fashion choices and bold accessories she has never let her age define how she dresses or enjoys life. With a new book just out and a documentary revealing more about her life and attitude, Iris is a true inspiration for aging with flair and fun. Here are some of her best quotes:
“There is really no substitute for experience. You must have experience and be open to experience — that helps. That helps a lot. Most importantly, you have to be yourself, be who you are and take time to be open and honest with yourself. That is what it’s all about. If you don’t know yourself, you’ll never have great style. You’ll never really live. To me, the worst fashion faux pas is to look in the mirror, and not see yourself.”
“I am inspired by everything around me. It’s not like I stand out on the moors or any of that romantic crap they throw around. I’m just inspired by being alive and breathing and meeting people and talking to people and doing things and absorbing what’s happening. ”
“If you don’t learn constantly, you don’t grow, and you will wither. Too many people wither on the vine. Sure, it gets a little harder as you get older, but new experiences and new challenges keep it fresh.”
“Coco Chanel once said that what makes a woman look old is trying desperately to look young. Why should one be ashamed to be 84? Why do you have to say that you’re 52? Nobody’s going to believe you anyway, so why be such a fool? It’s nice that you got to be so old. It’s a blessing.”
“I don’t see anything so wrong with a wrinkle. It’s kind of a badge of courage.”
“What’s wrong with being 72 or 82 or 92? If God is good enough to give you those years, flaunt them. It’s ridiculous this idea that once you reach a certain age you are ready for the junk, that being old is somehow dirty and disgusting. The alternative to old is not very pleasant. ”
“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.”
