It’s no secret that The Standard has its share of notable guests. But every once in a while, we have someone checking in that sends everyone into a tizzy. Such paroxysms were very much in evidence upon hearing the news that the inimitable fashion icon of the people, Iris Apfel, would be staying at The Standard Spa, Miami Beach during the Miami International Film Festival to promote her aptly titled documentary, "Iris." Standard Culture immediately dispatched its intrepid Miami correspondent to have a chat with the grand dame herself, glasses, baubles and all.
STANDARD CULTURE: Have you always been one of the cool girls?
IRIS APFEL: Cool? Most people say I'm hot.
Yes, you're definitely hot. You're also known for your colorful palette. Care to weigh in on the white, gold, black, blue debacle?
Well I don't see it in blue and black, so it's obviously gold and white. I don't quite understand the big deal. A lot of people see things that they shouldn't see.
For what do you have an insatiable appetite?
Life.
Care to elaborate?
What more can there be than life? It's the only answer for me to give, because that's what all of this simply boils down to...living life.
What's something you couldn't live without?
My husband [Carl]. Our relationship is one of my greatest achievements. We’ve been together for 67 years. The secret is having a sense of humor and giving one another their own space.
IA: What thrift store did you get that dress from? Someone needs to take me to a good place around here.
Well, there are tons, but I think you'd like C. Madeleines.
Oh no, the price isn't right there. I want to know where YOU go. How much did you pay for your dress?
$2.50 for the dress and 50 cents for the cummerbund.
See, now that's style.
I’ll get you a list of my favorite stores. What was it like working with the late Albert Maysles?
Albert was wonderful. Full of humanity and love. We had a similar love of life itself and I think that's why we worked so well together. He truly was a master; the granddaddy of modern day documentary. I have a great deal of respect for him.
Finally, when you look in the mirror, do you think you're beautiful?
Oh god no! If I thought I was beautiful then I wouldn't have developed all these other things. I wouldn't have developed who I am today. I find beauty in being interesting and that's what I am: interesting.
Well, just so you know, my husband thinks you’re hot.
See, I told you so. People think I'm hot.
For those who, like Iris, love a good find, here's that list of our favorite Miami thrift shops:
Bargain Barn Thrift Shop
2233 NW 1st Ct
Miami, FL 33127
(305) 572-2063
Red White & Blue Thrift Store
12640 NE 6th Ave
Miami, FL 33161
(305) 893-1104
Grubstake Resources
2401 N Miami Ave
Miami, FL 33127
United States
