Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers presents the spirited and singular style of fashion icon Iris Apfel, offering over 600 lots of her apparel, accessories, and eclectic home décor across two sales. Items are sourced mainly from her legendary residence in Palm Beach, where she passed away last year at the age of 102, in addition to her New York Home. A kaleidoscope of bold color, playful glamour, and unapologetic maximalism, the “More is more and less is a bore” auction, titled after her trademark mantra, will be preceded by concurrent exhibitions across four of Doyle’s houses nationwide. A live auction will be held at Doyle New York on Tuesday, March 4; an online timed sale will take place on Wednesday, March 5.
Iris Apfel emphasized that everything she owned, she went to find. While Iris will forever be linked to the energy and glamour of New York City, her life in Palm Beach added an equally dazzling dimension to her legacy. The tropical colors, coastal elegance, and playful sophistication of Palm Beach provided the perfect canvas for her signature maximalism. Her Palm Beach apartment featured vignettes of carefully curated antiques, paintings and decorative art, including a turquoise room that housed her extensive Kachina collection Iris and her husband Carl collected from their many trips to the Southwest.
Whether hosting lively gatherings or hunting for unique finds in local shops, Iris brought her vibrant sensibilities to the Palm Beach scene, weaving its charm into her kaleidoscopic style. In both New York and Palm Beach, Iris was a beacon of originality, reminding the world that true style is about self-expression, creativity, and a touch of fearless fun.
“Iris had an eye for beauty in all its forms, and the selection of items in this sale is a true reflection of that,” said Grace Smoker, spokesperson for the Iris Apfel Estate. “She defined her style through high fashion and vintage treasures, and never lost her love for a fabulous thrift store find. This auction celebrates Iris’ unique vision for blending the unexpected and making it entirely her own.”
Notable lots include:
- Portrait of Iris Apfel by Burger King
- Iris’ signature multicolor and pattern eyeglass frames
- Animal-themed brooches
- Rock Lobster table decoration by Kara Ross
- Groups of Pueblo Kachinas
- Pieces by Christian Dior Haute Couture, Jean Paul Gaultier and Judith Roberts for La Colección
- An eclectic collection of home furniture in an array of styles
Prior to the sale, four of Doyle’s nationwide houses will have items from the sale on display for public exhibition before a final showing at Doyle New York beginning Friday, February 28:
