Fashion Icon Iris Apfel Died One Day After Her 102nd-And-A-Half Birthday

Iris Apfel will always be remembered for her eccentric, bold style.

The fashion trailblazer died just one day after her 102nd-and-a-half birthday. Up to the very end, Apfel was active on social media, sharing her iconic style with the world.

Just one day before her death, Apfel celebrated her half-birthday and shared the occasion on both her Instagram and TikTok pages. She captioned her post, "In half birthdays, I’m only 26!!! I’m 102 and a half today… Happy leap day! ?????????"

Many people dropped into the comments to help her celebrate the special day.

Instagram wrote, "Happy birthday queen!" Actress Yvette Nicole Brown added, "Happy half birthday, love!" Another follower shared, "Iris you've been a constant inspiration in my life. I celebrate you... a Maverick and trailblazer because of you others are inspired to live in their skin and show the world who we are organically ourselves making are own rules and setting the trends not following them. GOD BLESS YOU QUEEN."

Then just one day later, sad news was shared on her behalf on social media announcing the beloved fashionista's passing.

Many shared their condolences in the comment section.

Singer Lenny Kravitz wrote, "You mastered the art of living. Thank you for your energy and inspiration."

One follower shared, "Today, we mourn the loss of a true fashion icon, Iris Apfel. Her bold style, fearless creativity, and unwavering confidence have left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond. Rest in power, Iris. Your vibrant spirit will continue to inspire generations to come."

And another added, "Rest in Power! Thank you for living your life so beautifully & inspiring so many of us to live boldly"

Born in 1921, Apfel studied art history at New York University before going to the University of Wisconsin for art. After graduating, she worked as a copywriter for Women's Wear Daily. She met her husband Carol Apfel at the age of 27 and the two worked together and founded Old World Weavers, a tapestry business. Through their business, they met many rich and famous people.

When the couple sold their company in 1992, she continued on as a consultant. She remained active throughout her life and never stopped working, even in her later years.

At the age of 90, she became an instructor at the University of Texas, and at 93 she starred in her documentary, "Iris." At 96, she published her book, "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon." At 97, she signed a modeling contract with IMG Models.

Enjoying her later-in-life fame on Instagram and TikTok, she shared fashion tips and promoted collaborations.

She never decided that retirement was the way to go for her. According to The Associated Press, she once told "Today," "I think retiring at any age is a fate worse than death. Just because a number comes up doesn't mean you have to stop."

Apfel's husband predeceased her. They had no children.

RIP, Iris! Thanks for being bold and unapologetically you!