Timeless Style Icons

As Coco Chanel said, “Mode passes; style remains.” In other words, some of the most iconic stylists have perfected their craft from years of experimentation and an eye for flattering fabrics and perfect accessories. These visionaries have broken the mold for decades, even in old age.

Iris Apfel

Iris Apfel was a fashion and interior designer who had bright and bold taste. Her trademark oversized glasses, bold red lipstick, and maximalist style made her an icon. For example, she is often photographed wearing giant bangle bracelets and necklaces. In one outfit, she paired a bright red dress, complete with oversized sleeves, with layers of gold and red necklaces, bracelets, and chunky square rings. In one photo commemorating her 100th birthday, she wore a golden necklace, resembling plumage, with an oversized black and gold Giambattista Valli gown that hid her form, and bangles that were as large as her hands.

She considered herself a “geriatric starlet” and signed a modeling contract at the age of 97. She partnered with many brands, such as MAC Cosmetics and jewelry franchise Swarovski crystals. Part of her extensive wardrobe was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2005, and today, some of her ensembles, which include clothes that she has designed, are located in the Peabody Essex Museum’s Fashion & Design Gallery.

Green Lady of Brooklyn

Elizabeth Sweetheart, also known as the Green Lady of Brooklyn, is a fine artist who is known for her signature green look: she proudly sports her bright green hair and green overalls. In fact, she has over thirty pairs of green overalls, and some she has dyed herself! She remarked that “green is just the most positive color, and the happiest.”

Sweetheart has worked with many top clothing manufacturers, such as Ralph Lauren, American Eagle Outfitters, and Michael Kors, by providing them with her hand-painted prints and artwork. Today, she lives in a green house furnished with plants, green appliances, and green furniture. Most recently, she made a cameo in a music video for Chappell Roan’s “The Subway.”

Aki and Koichi

Aki and Koichi are a stylish Japanese couple in their seventies who have risen to fame on TikTok and Instagram. Their outfits are timeless and coordinated. For example, one post showcases how Aki’s look (Chanel bag, loose capris, and patterned beige jacket) complements Koichi’s fit (a neutral cardigan, dark wash jeans, and a simple baseball cap). They have done several brand deals, including those with Marimekko, Marc Jacobs, and LOEWE.

They modeled for Dior’s pre-fall 2025 fashion show, wearing matching black and white ensembles; Aki is fitted with a black and white cape with “DIOR” printed in bold letters, while Koichi is wearing a simple black coat with beaded designs.

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