A 97-year-old is continuing to be a stylish role model for people everywhere as she’s just signed another modelling contract.
Iris Apfel has been working within the fashion industry for decades, having taken on projects for the White House, modelling for MAC cosmetics, and having her work celebrated with an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Despite being surrounded by all things fashion for so many years, it’s still clearly a passion of hers, and is about to take on a new job with IMG – one of the biggest modelling agencies there are.
Some of IMG’s other clients include Gigi Hadid, Gisele Bundchen and Karlie Kloss.
The company, who will represent Iris for modeling as well as appearances and endorsements, announced their new addition on Thursday (February 28).
Iris spoke with WWD about her new venture, explaining this was the first time she’d signed with an agent, having previously handled deals herself.
She said:
I’m very excited. I never had a proper agent. I’m a do-it-yourself girl. I never expected my life would take this turn so I never prepared for it.
It all just happened so suddenly, and I thought at my tender age, I’m not going to set up offices and get involved with all kinds of things.
I thought it was a flash in the pan, and it’s not going to last. Somehow, people found me. People would just call. Tommy Hilfiger said that was no way to do it, and he put us together. I’m very excited and very grateful,
Ivan Bart, president of IMG Models and IMG Fashion Properties, spoke highly of the 97-year-old, saying:
Iris is an icon with immeasurable talent. She radiates creativity and inspiration and we’re so excited to explore new and unique opportunities with her, where her natural gifts can be shared with the world.
At 97 years old, Iris continues to prove that age is just a number and shouldn’t be something that defines you.
Iris is certainly an inspiration for everyone, proving you’re never too old to start a new adventure!
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Emily Brown first began delivering important news stories aged just 13, when she launched her career with a paper round. She graduated with a BA Hons in English Language in the Media from Lancaster University, and went on to become a freelance writer and blogger. Emily contributed to The Sunday Times Travel Magazine and Student Problems before becoming a journalist at UNILAD, where she works on breaking news as well as longer form features.