The granddaughter of beauty icon Estée Lauder and founder/creative director of her lifestyle brand AERIN, 45-year-old Aerin Lauder is an integral part of the one of the most successful families to ever to grace the beauty business. We caught up with the busy entrepreneur to find out more about her personal beauty secrets, favorite products and more.
NewBeauty: What does it mean to you to carry on your grandmother’s legacy?
Aerin Lauder: My grandmother was a brilliant and creative businesswoman. She taught me that you need to be passionate about what you do and also the importance of connecting with the customer. Many people don’t know, but she created the “gift with purchase.” She believed every woman loved a gift, and this concept today is applied in every industry from beauty to chocolate. Estée always said, “Everything can be beautiful, if you take the time,” and I’ve applied that in every aspect of the AERIN brand today.
NB: What is your earliest beauty memory?
AL: My earliest memories are related to scent. I remember walking into my grandmother’s house always greeted by large arrangements of fragrant flowers—usually roses or tuberose. Later on I learned that we both shared a passion for flowers, especially roses.
Instagram/aerin
NB: What are your three favorite products from your line?
AL: The Rose de Grasse Parfum is one of my favorite fragrances. I also love the Rose Lip Conditioner—it gives my lips a natural, glossy finish and I never leave home without it—and Pretty Bronze Illuminating Powder.
NB: What does your skin-care regimen include?
AL: It’s pretty simple. A few key essentials—a good moisturizer that has a luxurious texture and really makes your skin glow, tons of water and sleep—make all the difference. I love Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II, Re-Nutriv Re-Creation Face Creme and Night Serum for Eyes, Double Wear Light. I also like to do a face mask to revitalize my skin. La Mer has some amazing masks, and the new Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair PowerFoil Mask instantly makes my skin look fresh and hydrated.
NB: What one beauty trend are you most excited about this year?
AL: I love an effortless look, so I am excited to try different bronzers for a natural-looking tan.
NB: We love your Instagram account. What are your three favorite accounts to follow?
AL: Instagram is a huge form of inspiration for me. I love connecting with old friends and discovering new talent. It’s hard to only choose three, but I like to follow Condé Nast Traveler, Net-a-Porter, Carolyn Murphy, Helen Dealtry and Bianca Brandolini, among so many others!
Instagram/aerin
NB: How would you describe your personal style, and which wardrobe essentials are always in your closet?
AL: My style is classic, feminine and effortless. I love a good pair of jeans with a button down or blouse and a great pair of flats. I love Frame denim and Michael Kors cashmere sweaters. I also love our new AERIN handbags and shoes, which I am excited to be launching in the fall.
NB: As a wife, mother of two and creative director of your company, you are always on the go. How do you unwind?
AL: For fitness, I do Pilates a few times a week and I love going for long walks in Central Park. For relaxing at home, our AERIN rose spa line is my ultimate secret.
NB: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
AL: Stay away from the sun and always wear sunblock.
