Women’s History Month Entrepreneur Spotlight – Estée Lauder
Estée photographed in her first town house in New York City, circa 1960. Image Source: Leonard A. Lauder Estée Lauder Companies Archives
Estée Lauder (1906 – 2004) was an American entrepreneur and cosmetics pioneer who left a lasting mark on the beauty industry. Born Josephine Esther Mentzer in Queens, New York, Estée Lauder’s journey to success began in the early 20th century when she started experimenting with skincare formulas in her kitchen.
With an eye for beauty and a relentless drive for perfection, Lauder developed a line of high-quality skincare products that quickly gained popularity among her friends and family. In 1946, she officially founded the Estée Lauder Companies, laying the foundation for what would become one of the world’s leading beauty conglomerates.
“If you put the product into the customer’s hands, it will speak for itself if it’s something of quality.”
– Estée Lauder
The four original Estée Lauder products – Cleaning Oil, Super Rich All Purpose Creme, Cream Pack and Skin Lotion. Image Source: Leonard A. Lauder Estée Lauder Companies Archives
Lauder’s innovative approach to beauty revolutionized the cosmetics industry, introducing iconic products such as the Youth-Dew fragrance and the Advanced Night Repair serum. Her emphasis on luxury, elegance, and personalized customer service set Estée Lauder apart in a crowded market, establishing it as a symbol of sophistication and glamor.
Throughout her career, Estée Lauder remained involved in all aspects of her business, from product development to marketing and sales. Her hands-on approach and commitment to excellence earned her acclaim and cemented her legacy as a visionary entrepreneur.
Estée with her new products behind the counter at Neiman Marcus in Dallas, 1951. Image Source: Rhoton Gilbert, Courtesy of Leonard A. Lauder Estée Lauder Companies Archives
Beyond her business acumen, Estée Lauder was also a philanthropist and advocate for women’s empowerment. She supported numerous charitable causes, including breast cancer research and education, through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, which she co-founded with her husband, Joseph Lauder.
Estée Lauder’s latest product line. Image Source: beautypointofview.com
Estée Lauder’s impact on the beauty industry and her legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship continue to inspire countless individuals around the world. Her name serves as a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and vision.
Be sure to also check out the rest of our Women’s History Month Entrepreneur Spotlight series that highlights interesting facts and history of the lives of prominent entrepreneurs.
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