The Doors of Iris Apfel’s Closet Are Open
A unique collection of items from the wardrobe of the late style icon Iris Apfel is now available for purchase in SoHo. This curated sale features hundreds of clothing pieces and standout accessories from her personal collection.
“It’s like visiting a museum but being allowed to interact with the art,” said Nancy Cavalier, a 39-year-old New Yorker, reflecting on the blend of online and in-person sales. “This feels like my Super Bowl!”
The event, titled “The Rarefinds: Iris Apfel Archive Edit,” is hosted at Bargain Bonanza and RealReal’s Soho flagship on Wooster Street, running through October 1 or until items sell out.
Iris Apfel, who passed away in March 2024 at 102, was a true original in fashion. Her oversized glasses and eclectic jewelry made her a trailblazer of the maximalist aesthetic. Her philosophy: “more is more, less is a bore,” has made her a lasting influence.
A new group of fans, often referred to as “Apfel Acolites,” are now channeling her bold style.
Cavalier, who admires Apfel’s fearless fashion sense, noted how she effortlessly combined patterns and accessories to make unique statements. As she browsed through the sale, the array of colorful pieces captivated her.
One particular item caught her eye.
She was thrilled to find a vintage animal print vest listed at $345. She even had pillows and chairs in similar patterns at home, showing her dedication to matching styles. In a flurry of excitement, she couldn’t resist adding $275 vintage Moschino pants to her order, viewing both pieces as more than just clothing but as a piece of fashion history.
Connecting the Past to the Present
The sale showcases an array of Apfel’s iconic designs.
Items from renowned designers like Jean Franco Ferret, Ungaro, and Yves Saint Laurent, along with outerwear from Roberto Cavalli, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Michael Kors, fill the space. There are also unique finds from local fashion legends like Todd Oldham and Willi Smith. Apfel’s influence on New York’s fashion scene goes back decades, having made her first mainstream impact at 84 when she curated a successful exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2005.
Her collaborations have ranged from Mac Cosmetics to HSN, even leading to a Barbie likeness of her.
In the true Apfel spirit, her collection bursts with color, eclectic styles, and vibrant statements, offering a chance for fans to embrace that ethos.
“She represents enjoying life and the essence of maximalism for me,” said Bell Baxt, a 33-year-old Manhattanite. “Seeing people fully embrace this style is exhilarating, especially in a world that seems to favor minimalism right now.”
Earlier this year, some of Apfel’s items fetched tens of thousands at auctions, underscoring her impact.
However, this sale holds appeal for fashion enthusiasts, especially those on a budget. Baxt snagged a vintage beaded bracelet in hot pink for $125, describing the rush of the experience. “It was such a special moment,” she shared, enjoying the way the store highlighted Apfel’s signature style.
Highlighting the Legacy
An important aspect of this sale is the detailed cataloging of Apfel’s collection.
Uovo Fashion has collaborated with RealReal to ensure the items are verified for origin and condition, providing peace of mind to buyers interested in the stories behind each piece.
This meticulous approach resonates with fans like Kristen Bateman, who appreciates the chance to study Apfel’s layering techniques.
For many admirers, Apfel was much more than a fashion icon; she was a cultural force. “I was just looking for something small that felt like I could take a piece of her home with me,” Bateman expressed.
