For years, Iris Apfel has been known for her ecclectic style and oversized accessories. But she never capitalized on her unique look until now. In September, her capsule collection for HSN launches and she already has another project in the works: Iris has teamed up with rising jewelry star, Alexis Bittar for a second collection.

Bittar counts Iris as one of his muses and even brought her as his date to the CFDA Awards. Both Bittar and Iris have a thing for oversized, in-your-face jewels so this partnership is perfect! Fashion is always looking for new things, but nowadays, it's hip to be old. Octogenarians have been placed in the fashion spotlight, thanks to blogs like Advanced Style and The Sartorialist who focus on their unique and classic looks.

We love Iris and the fact that she's making the most of the later years in her life. It's an inspiration for all and we're beyond excited for their collaboration!

(stylebistro.com)

God I love this woman...this is exactly how I want to look when I'm her age! Check out that gorgeous neck piece....she ALWAYS wears the most unique jewelry, much of which appears to be one-of-a-kind or picked up in some out of the way boutique in France or Italy. To me, she is, and will always be, a source of inspiration! Following is a quote from this great lady, which is a true testament to her inimitable style.

“I think dressing up or down should be a creative experience. Exciting. Fun. Whenever possible, it’s really great to start with a marvelously cut designer piece and build on it. For me the key to personal style lies in accessories. My friends tell me that my oversized glasses and my pairs of bracelets have become my unwritten signature. I have amassed an enormous “collection” of bags, belts, bangles and beads without which I would be lost. One can change the entire look of an outfit by substituting one accessory for another. I love objects from different worlds, different eras, combined my way. Never uptight, achieving – hopefully – a kind of throwaway chic."

(jewelryaccessories.com)

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From carved Lucite cuffs to over-the-top costume baubles, every little thing he does is magic. For his next trick? The debut of fine jewelry in 2012.


"I grew up without a TV. My parents are professors and deeply intellectual. When I travel now, I feel like a kid whose parents aren't around. Then I see what's on. The show that kills me is Bridalplasty. It's the sickest thing ever! I felt I needed to make a statement."


Necklace $425, Alexis Bittar; alexisbittar.com.


Crystal Bangles $155 each, Pearl Cuff $345, Bow Cuff $295, Crystal Cuff $395, Silver Studded Cuff $185, Pearl Bracelet $295, Gold STUDDED Cuff $185, Floral Cuff price upon request, Alexis Bittar; alexisbittar.com.


Necklace $1,700, Alexis Bittar Exclusively for Jason Wu; alexisbittar.com.


"When I'm working with Jason Wu [with whom Bittar collaborated for spring and fall 2011], he'll show me pictures of his references. For fall, they were old churches and Roman Italian architecture. I tried to get into his head as much as possible to make the jewelry [above and left] work with the ready-to-wear."


Cuffs $345 each, Alexis Bittar; alexisbittar.com.


Lauren Hutton's lack of plastic surgery led her to become the latest face of Alexis Bittar. "I respect women who don't fall for the pressures of society," Bittar says.


Cuff $550, Alexis Bittar Exclusively for Jason Wu; alexisbittar.com.

(marieclaire.com)

I've been a fan of Alexis Bittar's work from the start. A fine jewelry collection is a natural progression for this immense talent.

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1. Jonathan Kelsey’s sheer meshand-patent leather booties. Dress by Temperley London, necklace and cuff by Dannijo.
Photo by Sabine Liewald.

2. Gianvito Rossi’s metallic leather booties with sheer panels and satin ankle ties. Dress by Preen, necklace by Dannijo.
Photo by Sabine Liewald.

3. Guillaume Hinfray’s perforated leather peep-toe pumps with bows. Vest by Veda, lace bodysuit by American Apparel, bag by Dolce & Gabbana, necklace by Dannijo, cuffs by Alexis Bittar and Dannijo.
Photo by Sabine Liewald.

4. Brian Atwood’s python slingback sandals with mesh panels. Skirt and top by Preen, necklace by Dannijo, cuffs by Dannijo and Alexis Bittar.
Photo by Sabine Liewald.

5. Raphael Young’s perforated leather platform sandals with clear PVC inset. Jacket and bodysuit by Dolce & Gabbana, necklace by Dannijo, bracelet by Alexis Bittar.
Photo by Sabine Liewald

6. Dress by Hervé Léger, leather jacket by Veda, earrings and bracelet by Alexis Bittar.
Photo by Sabine Liewald

(WWD)

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