About Iris – A Tribute to the Cashmere Icon
Iris von Arnim has redefined the standards for luxurious cashmere collections for women and men – and continues to do so to this day. Self-assured. Elegant. Determined. Even in her 80s, she radiates an energy that is truly infectious.
Her signature style stems from intuition, curiosity and a commitment to perfecting things until they feel just right. She loves authenticity: craftsmanship, materials, music, conversation – and the special energy that arises when people create something together.
In the 1980s, Iris brought cashmere to Germany and revolutionised the market: with her distinctive designs, she created a pioneering unique selling point in knitwear. The idea for her iconic rainbow jumper gave rise to the IRIS VON ARNIM brand, whose philosophy of luxury remains rooted in precision, durability and the feel of every single piece. Her collections combine comfort and elegance, are characterised by craftsmanship and a love of materials, and become lifelong favourites.
Iris’ life’s work in six chapters
Chapter I | Iris' Childhood and Youth
Born in Silesia in 1945, Iris von Arnim moved west with her family as a baby; her mother died when she was three years old, and she lost her father at the age of 16. Having grown up in Hanover and spent time abroad in the USA, she developed a sense of curiosity, perseverance and the courage to forge her own path at an early age – qualities that continue to shape her vision and distinctive style to this day.
Chapter II | The Beginnings: How Iris Found Her Calling
In the 1970s, Iris von Arnim moved to Munich and worked in photography, journalism and PR, but none of these jobs fulfilled her. Iris von Arnim was searching for her passion in life.
Chapter III | The Breakthrough: The Birth of the Rainbow Sweater
Following a serious accident, she discovered the joy of knitting and playing with colours whilst in hospital. From this, she developed her first innovative technique, which led to the creation of the iconic rainbow jumper. The rainbow jumper became a hit and laid the foundation for her career and the brand’s success.
Chapter IV | Development of the Brand: Iris Launches the First Cashmere Collection
In the early 1980s, she wanted to change her knitting style and materials, and discovered high-quality Italian cashmere. Iris von Arnim brought cashmere to Germany and further developed her collections: from then on, the focus was on playing with colours, luxurious materials and the pure art of knitting.
Chapter V | The Cashmere Queen: Iris Grows Her Brand
In the 1990s, Iris continued to expand her brand’s presence. With a dedicated showroom and her first flagship store on Sylt, she established a luxury knitwear brand with a distinctive style.
Chapter VI | Iris and Valentin: The Family Business Looks to the Future
Valentin von Arnim has been with the company since 2006 and has been bringing a fresh perspective to the business. For 20 years, mother and son have been combining tradition with modernity. Today, the family business is one of the few owner-managed luxury brands in Germany that enjoys international success. .