The Number One Mistake Interior Design Icon Iris Apfel Warned Against

The late interior design and fashion icon Iris Apfel rose to fame in 2005 after being featured in a show produced by the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. The show, called "Rara Avis," introduced the world to Apfel's eclectic fashion sense. The fashionista went on to become a widely admired name in the world of interior design and fashion. Apfel was all about originality, so it is perhaps no surprise that she warned against conformity in interior design.

During an interview with Architectural Digest in 2019, the notable interior design icon was asked for her top interior design tip, and she made it clear that she is not a fan of design elements that conform to the same trends that are seen nearly everywhere. "I think the problem with design today is that it's too generic," Apfel explained to Architectural Digest. "I think everybody looks alike today with what they wear, and everybody's houses do too. I'd rather see some mistakes, but some personality. I like to walk into a house and know you live there. Not just walk in and have it look like a thousand-dollar hotel room. But I don't give advice. It's not my business."

Iris Apfel's passion for personality and vibrance in design could be seen not only through her eccentric fashion choices but also through the eye-catching pieces she designed herself. The interior designer collaborated with Neiman Marcus in 2019 to launch her collection with their Nude Glass line. Apfel's pieces included glass figures dressed in some of her iconic looks as well as colorful glassware sets.

While speaking with Architectural Digest, Apfel explained why she took a playful approach to designing these pieces. "They're fun," the fashionista shared. "I like to have fun. I think when I design things, I like to be able to smile and feel happy. The world is so gray, and we need to have some pizzazz." When asked about her design inspiration, Apfel admitted that she was not all that calculated. "I don't know where inspiration comes from," the designer explained. "Ask God! I don't analyze those things. I think that's phony. I feel what I think is right, so I do it. Sometimes it's not right." Apfel's offbeat advice and approach to interior design might help you embrace individuality within your living space.