Christie’s presents “Unapologetically Iris: The Collection of Iris Apfel,” an online auction celebrating one of America’s most iconic style-makers. The online sale, which showcases Apfel’s legendary flair for fashion, accessories, and interior design, will be open for bidding from January 28 to February 13.
For nearly half a century, Apfel was beloved for her aesthetic, known for seamlessly combining colors, textures, and patterns in new ways, redefining traditional notions of fashion and design. She was undeniably a trendsetter, instantly recognizable by her oversized oval glasses, blue eyeshadow, feather boas, and arms adorned with chunky bangles. Her distinctive style was characterized by an eclectic mix of high and low fashion, harmoniously blending couture with flea market discoveries. “Unapologetically Iris” features over 200 pieces of fashion, accessories, and design from the collection of Apfel, showcasing the brilliant and bold personal style of a New York City icon.
The sale is a rare opportunity for fashion enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of completely unique clothing items and accessories spanning eras, including ready-to-wear pieces and couture garments from the 1950s to the present. Highlights include a Feather Coat Dior Haute Couture (Estimate: $800-1,200), a Pink, Red, and Yellow Color Block Shirt Gown Carolina Herrera (Estimate: $800-1,200), and a Case of Eighteen Multicolor and Pattern Iris Apfel X Zenni Eyeglass Frames (Estimate: $400-600).
A distinguished collector and expert in antique textiles, Apfel began her career as a decorator and, during her life, consulted on prestigious restoration projects, including at the White House. Together with her husband, Carl, she co-founded Old World Weavers, an internationally renowned textile company. Beyond her contributions to fashion, the sale will also honor Apfel’s passion for interior design, featuring decorative art pieces and items from her homes in New York City and Palm Beach. Featured in the sale is a Carved Ostrich-form Bar ‘Gussy’ Italy, circa 1975 (Estimate: $6,000-8,000).
Select highlights from the collection will be on view in Florida at Christie’s Miami from January 24 to 25 and in Palm Beach at The Colony Hotel from January 29 to 31. The full collection will be on view at Christie’s New York from February 8 to 13.
