This August marks the 94th birthday of a remarkable woman whose vast wardrobe chronicles the history of fashion in the twentieth century. Iris Barrel Apfel knows how to dress in a way that will take people by surprise and wow them. She does not follow trends; rather, she creates them.

Her eclectic style is an odd combination of expensive, inexpensive, and vintage items. Iris became well-known for her unusual preferences, appreciation of rare artifacts, and commercial work. The former interior designer lived her life at her own pace and became, as she put it, “a 94-year-old cover girl.” The most intriguing aspect is that the Apfels firm was in charge of decorating the White House for several presidents.

Apfel’s work journeys carried her all over the world, where she continued to collect odd trinkets to add to her wardrobe. Apfel’s work journeys carried her all over the world, where she continued to collect odd trinkets to add to her wardrobe. Her personality can be summed up in one word: courageous.

In the movie, Apfel says, “It doesn’t matter if I’m invited to a party or if I’m throwing the party myself. The most important thing is to get dressed for the party.” She thinks that coming up with a style and picking out an outfit are creative things to do.

“I like to improvise, as if I’m playing jazz. In 2005, the Met Museum of Art put on a show called “Rare Bird” that showed off her huge collection of clothes. This was the start of her rise to fame. It was shown on every channel, and Apfel soon made her first piece of clothing.