THIS week I have been inadvertently introduced to a fashion icon I have never even heard of.
Okay, I may have only lived a modest (in some people's eyes...) 24 years on this planet - but Iris Apfel has been knocking around an impressive 93 years, going on 94.
For those of you who haven't been exposed to last week's extensive coverage of this no-nonsense, fiery and self-confessed 'starlet', if you're after any source of lifestyle or fashion inspiration, this is the woman for you.
Bursting at the seams with style, New Yorker Iris is the perfect role model.
There is no mutton-meets-lamb here and certainly no floral blouse-meets-your-grandmother's-curtains.
Like a modern day hipster minus the pretension, Iris Apfel is unlike any nearing-centenarian you could think of.
Find her clad in bright jumpers, her signature oversized specs and bejewelled with pieces from what is claimed to be one of the biggest collections of couture costume jewellery.
The interior designer is unashamedly and enviably at home in both her style and age.
She is even one of the first women - well at least she says she is - to have worn jeans.
More on trend now than perhaps ever before, Iris has fun with fashion and doesn't mess about when it comes to colour and design.
Most people accessorise last thing...'which earrings go with?'...
But why not turn the tables and match your outfit to your bling or beads?
Topshop's Freedom collection has an eye catching antique gold-look torque with a burgundy fabric wrap, rhinestone detail and tassel drops.
At £22.50, this warrior princess-esque necklace is perfect for making a statement.
And though Iris would probably match with even bigger statements pieces, I'd let the jewels do the talking against the backdrop of something simple.
Team with a sophisticated and subtle t-shirt dress - black, metallic, moss green or leather - and chunky, open-heeled heels.
Or bring that same simple dress to life with New Look's monochrome beaded tassel choker at £17.99.
Stick with white and black for a clean cut look.
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