All in the (Lauder) family
To some, being part of a famous family is both a blessing and a curse. Aerin Lauder has learned from one of the most influential beauty icons: Estee Lauder. As founder and creative director for AERIN, she is building a monster business of her own.
In the past year, Lauder has quickly expanded her line to everything from sunglasses with Oliver Peoples, shoes, jewelry and home décor. This didn’t happen over night. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, she has supermodel genes, is a mother of two boys and a wife, is obsessed with interior design and is an arbiter in the beauty industry. Lauder just released a new fragrance line and a coffee-table book, “Beauty at Home.”
Q. Why did you decide to launch AERIN Beauty?
Everyone always asked me what was in my makeup bag, so I created that which I love and use every day. For me, it’s modern, feminine and easy.
Q. Tell us about the new AERIN Fragrance Collection.
Estee always said, “In your wardrobe, you wouldn’t wear the same dress out as you would to play tennis.” I wanted a collection of fragrances that you could wear during different seasons. Amber Musk reminds me of wintertime: trees and pinecones. The line has something for everyone, and each fragrance has its own story.
Q. Do any of the fragrances trigger any memories?
Lilac Path reminds me of the Hamptons and how the lilac bushes would only be in season for a week and then disappear: so special and precious. The Gardenia Rattan epitomizes a summer porch and sunshine. Ikat Jasmine is comfort and style of that timeless jeans and white shirt. The Egyptian jasmine and orange blossom are pretty and feminine.
Q.Tell us about your new book?
The process is so amazing: every picture, every word means so much and is such a reflection of me. It was photographed with Simon Upton and is a great read about the frantic life filled with family, work and traditions.
Q. What’s your favorite quote?
Estee said, “If you love what you do, good things will come.”
Q. What’s a key item in your home you can’t live without?
A comfortable sofa. We have one in our living room, which we’ve had for 15 years. You just sink into it, which is great for both entertaining and for reading a book.
Q. What book are you reading right now?
“Me Before You,” a love story by JoJo Moyes.
Q. Where are your accessories sold?
Beauty is sold in Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. We also have a pop-up store in Southampton, which switches over each season.
Q. How do you feel working in a family business?
AIt’s nice working with my family. They are honest and trustworthy.
Q. Who’s your favorite NY designer?
Oscar de la Renta and Michael Kors
Q. What would you be for Halloween?
I'm not so much into costumes, but I’ve been an Indian, football player and Princess Leia
Q. What’s your favorite family tradition?
... A football game with family and friends after Thanksgiving.
