Last Friday, the American interior designer transformed into a fashion influencer. Her distinctive style, characterized by a vibrant and diverse wardrobe, captivated a wide audience of admirers. Below, some of her followers share their unique approaches to dressing for sheer delight.
Head of people at a tech company/stylist
Growing up, my father worked at a textile company, allowing me the opportunity to explore various fabrics. I was always drawn to bold and colorful prints, enabling me to experiment with unconventional combinations. Currently, I’m particularly drawn to shades like orange and neon green.
I deeply admire Iris for her fearless and bold fashion choices. Her philosophy, “more is more and less is a bore,” resonates with me. Embracing maximalism in fashion is about exuding confidence and embracing the vibrancy of color in one’s life.
Engaging in vintage shopping and upcycling has been a significant part of my fashion journey. Transforming unused items into unique pieces excites me. For instance, I revamped a pair of shoes with red uninflated balloons, creating a high-end look. Breaking away from conventional norms and experimenting with style is where true individuality shines.
Fashion guidelines can provide a solid foundation, but true style emerges when one dares to break the rules. Personal style evolves over time, reflecting our inner growth and comfort. Dressing should be an expression of self-assurance and individuality, transcending limitations imposed by conventional norms.
Fashion writer
My fashion sensibilities were influenced by the vibrant and unconventional styles of the Harajuku and kawaii movements in 90s Japan. In London, I found myself surrounded by a culture of daring and innovative designs, inspiring me to infuse fun and creativity into my wardrobe.
Dressing up, for me, is all about embracing fun and thematic elements. Whether it’s a special occasion or a holiday, my outfit reflects the mood and spirit of the event. Fashion should be a celebration of creativity and self-expression.
I consider myself a versatile dresser, unafraid to experiment with a spectrum of colors from black to pink to green. While I enjoy eccentric fashion, I aim to avoid looking like a costume. Embracing individuality in style often garners mixed reactions, but staying true to oneself is paramount in a world that often values conformity over creativity.
In a fashion landscape dominated by seriousness and conformity, I find joy in expressing myself through dynamic and colorful ensembles. Embracing Iris’s legacy of spreading happiness through vibrant fashion, I aim to inspire others to celebrate their uniqueness without fear of judgment.
Artist
Known as the “colour queen,” I live by the motto, “Don’t wear beige, it might kill you.” My wardrobe is a reflection of my vibrant personality, with red being a constant favorite. Experimenting with different shades and patterns brings me immense joy and vitality, steering clear of dull and muted tones.
Creating my own garments using eclectic fabrics and accessories is a form of artistic expression for me. By curating unique pieces from various sources, I embody a style that is both visually striking and deeply personal. Embracing color is not just a fashion choice but a way of infusing life with energy and positivity.
Additionally, I craft “neckshrines,” symbolic creations that blend cultural elements with kitsch aesthetics. These pieces hold significant meaning for me, representing a fusion of artistry and personal expression. Despite occasional scrutiny, the positive reactions from admirers reinforce the power of individuality and creativity in fashion.
In my golden years, comfort takes precedence, leading me to embrace Crocs in a myriad of colors. Customizing these shoes into unique artworks adds a touch of personal flair to my everyday attire. While some may view my style as unconventional, the genuine compliments and interactions with admirers validate the impact of embracing color and creativity at any age.
Interior designer
Transitioning from a phase of predominantly black attire to embracing a colorful and expressive wardrobe marked a significant shift in my fashion journey. As a plus-size individual, finding clothing that resonated with my style was initially challenging. However, with the rise of inclusive fashion options and online communities, I now confidently showcase my love for color and patterns.
Experimenting with bold hair colors and incorporating wigs into my looks has been transformative, allowing me to redefine my self-image and style. By embracing vibrant hues and diverse styles, I celebrate individuality and self-expression in fashion.
For important engagements, meticulous outfit planning is key, with layering playing a crucial role in creating dynamic looks. Color and pattern play central roles in my fashion choices, reflecting a commitment to creativity and self-expression. Similar to Iris Apfel, I revel in juxtaposing designer pieces with vintage finds and handmade treasures, advocating for a maximalist approach that celebrates individuality and creativity.
Art director and author
Initiating a color challenge on social media underscored the transformative power of color in fashion. Each day presents an opportunity to infuse joy and creativity into my wardrobe, reflecting my mood and personal style. While I adhere to a color palette, I prioritize self-expression and individuality, challenging conventional norms and embracing the beauty of color and texture in fashion.
Rejecting societal norms and embracing personal joy through fashion choices is paramount. By prioritizing self-expression and embracing color confidence, one can unlock a world of creativity and individuality in style. Fashion should be a source of joy and self-expression, transcending age and societal expectations.
Navigating the complexities of color analysis and fleeting trends, I advocate for embracing individuality and joy in fashion choices. In a world filled with chaos, finding moments of joy and self-expression through fashion becomes a powerful form of personal empowerment. Embracing color and creativity not only enriches personal style but also fosters a sense of positivity and self-confidence.