How I Built This with Guy Raz cover image

How I Built This with Guy Raz

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics: Bobbi Brown (2018)

Jul 19, 2021
Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, transformed the beauty industry with her emphasis on natural makeup. She discusses her early days as a makeup artist battling the flashy 1980s aesthetic, leading to the creation of her revolutionary nude makeup line. Bobbi shares insights on her journey from startup to the acquisition by Estée Lauder, revealing the challenges of maintaining her brand identity within a corporate structure. She also reflects on the emotional complexities of leaving a brand she built, exploring themes of personal fulfillment and creative control.
45:41

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Bobbi Brown revolutionized the makeup industry by introducing a natural and subtle "nude makeup" look in the 1980s.
  • Bobbi Brown's success can be attributed to her hard work, emotional intelligence, and ability to seize opportunities.

Deep dives

The Journey of Bobby Brown Cosmetics

Bobby Brown, a makeup artist, had a vision to create a natural, barely there makeup look in the 1980s. While others doubted this concept, Bobby Brown cosmetics was born, offering lipsticks that matched natural lip colors and other subtle makeup products. Despite initial skepticism, the brand gained traction and found success, with features in Vogue and collaborations with Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. Bobby's expertise also landed her a regular spot on the Today Show, establishing her as a beauty expert. With continued growth, Bobby Brown ultimately sold her company to Estee Lauder. However, as the brand expanded and changed under new ownership, Bobby Brown felt increasingly disconnected and yearned to be in control again. She eventually left Estee Lauder and has recently launched a new line of makeup called Jones Road.

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