The Art of Not Being Afraid to Be Yourself—Christie's Tribute to the Fashion Icon Iris Apfel

The “Unapologetically Iris” auction offers over 200 pieces of fashion, accessories, and designer objects from Iris Apfel’s private collation, showcasing the colorful and bold personality of this New York style icon. Apfel is an American businesswoman, interior designer, and most of all a fashion trendsetter, known for her oversized glasses and unique extravagant style.

This auction features a diverse selection of unique fashion accessories and interior design spanning several decades, including ready-to-wear pieces and haute couture clothes from the 1950s to the present day—a unique opportunity for all lovers of fashion. The most interesting lots are the Feather Coat Dior Haute Couture (estimate $800–$1,200), a set of eighteen Iris Apfel X Zenni eyewear frames (estimate $400–$600), and “Gussy,” a carved ostrich-shaped bar from the 1970s made in Italy (estimate $6,000–$8,000).

Iris Apfel, a respected antique textile expert, began her career as a designer. During her long life, she participated in several prestigious restoration projects, including of the White House. Together with her husband Carl, she established the internationally acclaimed Old World Weavers textile company. Besides her contributions to fashion, the auction also pays tribute to her passion for interior design, presenting decorative artworks and objects from her homes in New York and Palm Beach. 

Select pieces from her collection will be on view in Florida at Christie's Miami from January 23rd to 25th, and then at The Colony hotel in Palm Beach from January 29th to 31st. At Christie's New York, the entire collection will be exhibited from February 8th to 13th.