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A Century of Iris Apfel Quotes to Inspire Your Creativity
Iris Apfel was living proof that style has no age limit. Passing away at 102, her legacy in fashion and design speaks for itself — maximalist, unapologetic, and always a little bit cheeky, just like her. From designing for the White House to becoming a muse for artists worldwide, Iris showed that self-expression is the ultimate form of style. Whether it was her iconic oversized glasses or her love of mixing bold patterns, she never shied away from standing out.
We were lucky enough to work with Iris on three collections of washable rugs, doormats, and — with our latest release — throw pillows. Each time, we walked away feeling inspired. And so, to pass on the same feeling that Iris so routinely gave to us, here are some of her most iconic quotes to bring a little inspiration to your life too.
On Style
"More is more and less is a bore."
"Color can raise the dead."
“There's no how-to road map to style. It's about self-expression and, above all, attitude.”
"I don’t dress to be stared at; I dress for myself.”
“Fashion and interior design are one and the same.”
“I don't have any rules, because I would only be breaking them, so it's a waste of time.”
"I buy things because I fall in love with them. I never buy anything just because it's valuable."
On Being Yourself
“Don't listen to the experts. Listen to yourself. Listen to what you love. You will not make a mistake.”
“You don’t find out who you are unless you work at it.”
“Everyone was born with a personality and viewpoint, and I think they should use it!”
“When you don’t dress like everyone else, you don’t have to think like everyone else.”
On Inspiration
“There's so much around you to be inspired by. Do what you like, have fun, be bold. That’s part of living.”
“You have to be interested. If you’re not interested, you can’t be interesting.”
"People are so tied up in the worst parts of technology these days. They don’t use their imaginations."
"You have to be true to yourself, you have to know yourself. Not be a trend follower. You've got to learn to take a few risks."
On Age
“I’m the world’s oldest teenager.”
“I don't see anything wrong with a wrinkle. It's kind of a badge of courage.”
“If you’re lucky enough to get old, you should celebrate it.”
"If you don't learn constantly, you don't grow, and you will wither. Too many people wither on the vine."
On Living Boldly
“You only fail if you do not try. Sometimes you just have to take action, even if it is a small step.”
"If something sounds exciting and interesting I do it — and then I worry about it later.”
“Doing new things takes a lot of energy and strength. Most people would rather just go with the flow; it’s much easier. But it’s not very interesting.”
“You only have one trip. You might as well enjoy it.”
Ready to bring a bit of Iris’ vibrant spirit into your space? Explore our newest Ruggable x Iris Apfel designs and unleash your creativity with bold, unapologetic style.
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