Honoring Iconic Women in their Second and Third Acts
Iris Apfel left us on March 1st, at the age of 102, and the beginning of Women’s History Month. Taking the weekend to reflect, provided a moment to think deeply on a century plus of women's history in the interior design and wholesale industry.
In the wake of Iris Apfel's passing, we pay tribute to a remarkable life that influenced not only the realms of interior design and fashion but also left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial spirit.
Continually admiring Iris as a business icon in the interior design profession, from her restoration work with heads of state to her entrepreneurial spirit beyond 80, her impact in the industry is evident.
To many Iris, gained prominence as a fashion icon in her last act with the Rara Avis show at the Met. But for many in the industry, she brought designer goods and a world of inspiration to them with her textile designs and recreations from her company Old World Weavers founded in 1950.
Much like Iris, many (including myself) aspire to adopt a no-holds-barred approach to life, where one mingles with industry friends, shapes their destiny through work and networking that feels more like pleasure than work, and aspires to transcend to age-related expectations of fading away at societal set norms. Bucking this trend with a second or third act is where the lessons of Iris and other inspiring women come into play.
As we bid farewell to the incomparable Iris Apfel, just as Women’s History Month begins, I am compelled to honor her legacy by reflecting on the lessons she imparted, knowingly or not. They are lessons about life in its second and third acts and not being a wallflower.
Join me as we delve into those lessons and extend our celebration to other inspirational and influential women in the interior design field, particularly those more well-known for their second and third acts, who embody these invaluable lessons.
Thank you, Iris, for your timeless wisdom and inspiration we can take from a life well lived. Your absence is deeply felt. #raraavis
-Lauren HM
Favorite Article Resources: Iris Apfel / Jewish Women’s Archive / Iris Apfel / UT Ausin / Scalamandre / Old World Weavers
TIMELESS and UNFOLDING Legacies
Apfel's journey to fame as a fashion icon began in her eighties, proving that age is no barrier to recognition of one’s creativity and success outside of their initial industry. Her rise to fashion icon challenges conventional wisdom, emphasizing the importance of embracing new opportunities, even in the later stages of life.
LESSONS FOR SECOND & THIRD ACTS IN LIFE
1. Authenticity is Timeless: Life Experience brings knowledge and depth to one’s craft. This authenticity resonates with audiences and establishes a genuine connection. Infuse one’s projects with authenticity, recognizing that a rich narrative can be more compelling than a polished facade.
2. Boldness Attracts Attention: Iris Apfel's mantra, "More is more and less is a bore," is a testament to the power of boldness. Taking risks can set one apart in a competitive landscape. Embracing unconventional strategies and making fearless moves allows one to push boundaries, capturing attention and standing out in a crowded marketplace to gain widespread recognition.
3. Diversify your Ventures & Portfolio: Apfel's expertise extended beyond interior design, showcasing her versatility. Beyond her design restoration work, and textile company, she worked with brands such as MAC, modeling for IMG, and was a visiting professor with UT Ausin (UT in NYC conference). Similarly, diversifying skills and exploring various platforms can be beneficial. Whether collaborating on diverse campaigns or embracing new technologies, a broad portfolio enhances resilience and adaptability. From interior design to fashion icon, Apfel's journey epitomizes diversification, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance adaptability and resilience.
THE GRAND FINALE
As we reflect on the legacy of Iris and other second or third-act influential women, draw inspiration from their resilience, creativity, and strategic brilliance. The grand finale of their careers serves as a reminder that strategic moves know no age limit. And the final chapters are unwritten. So, celebrate the first act for lessons learned and the second and third for what is yet to come. And, like Apfel, recognize life’s efforts are vibrant tapestries that refuse to be a bore.
OTHER FAMOUS WOMEN with second and third acts:
First Act: Actress
Bio: Often hailed as the first professional interior designer, Elsie was a pioneering figure in the early 20th century. Her mantra was at the core of de Wolfe’s design philosophy: "I opened the windows and let in the sunshine." As a queer woman, de Wolfe challenged societal norms while she was revolutionizing the interiors. Her succinct expression encapsulated a commitment to breaking away from the stifling conventions of Victorian interiors. Her innovative use of light, color, and space made them bright, airy spaces conducive to modern living. De Wolfe's fearless approach to design and lifestyle inspires generations of designers and tastemakers.
First Act: Lacquer Work
Bio: An Irish-born pioneer in furniture, interior design, and architecture, EG stands as an iconic figure celebrated not only for her mastery of any field she worked in, her timeless designs, influence in the Modern Movement, and her profound impact on the LGBTQ design community. Her innovative 'Dragons' armchair, set an auction record for decorative art, is a testament to her unparalleled design sensibilities.
Leatrice Eiseman:
First Act: Psychology/ Counseling
Bio: Leatrice Eiseman is a renowned color specialist and executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. Her background in psychology revolutionized the field of interior design by incorporating psychology principles into her work. Her expertise has influenced countless designers and brands worldwide, shaping trends and consumer preferences in the process.
First Act: Dress Designer
Bio: Clodagh Phipps, known professionally as Clodagh, is a pioneering interior designer renowned for her holistic approach to design. With a career spanning over five decades, Clodagh seamlessly integrates sustainability, mindfulness, and biophilic design principles into her projects. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the connection between the built environment and human well-being, earning her recognition as a leader in the field.
First Act: Advertising/ Retail Buyer
Bio: A pioneering interior designer with a career spanning over three decades, her work is known for bold color and blending classical pieces with contemporary finishes. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, Bridges has broken barriers in the predominantly white field of interior design, championing representation and cultural authenticity in her work. Her projects range from residential to commercial spaces, reflecting her commitment to storytelling and social justice. Outside of her interior design work, she has pieces permanently house in the Brooklyn Museum, Smithsonian and RISD.
First Act: Graphic Designer
Bio: Kelly Wearstler is an acclaimed interior designer known for her bold and eclectic style. After beginning her career as a graphic designer, Wearstler quickly transitioned to interior design and rose to prominence. Her distinctive aesthetic graces luxury hotels, restaurants, and residences worldwide, earning her widespread acclaim and admiration. Winning her recognition among Architectural Digest AD100, Elle Décor, and WallPaper Top20,
First Act: American Professional Tennis Player
Bio: Beyond her illustrious tennis career, Venus Williams has made waves in the world of interior design with her firm, V Starr Interiors, founded in 2002. An award-winning, multi-disciplinary design practice, Williams infuses her designs with strength, elegance, and cultural diversity. Her innovative approach to interior design has earned her accolades and cemented her status as a trailblazer in the industry, specializing in hospitality, multifamily, luxury residential, and commercial design. V Starr caters to their market segments and brand focuses with a portfolio history including Brookfield, Hilton, Curio by Hilton, Midtown Athletic Club and Hotel, JBG Smith, Millcreek, Toll Bros, and InterContinental Hotels, among others. Noteworthy strategic partnerships include product developments with Wolf Gordon.
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