The New York Landmarks Conservancy is excitedly preparing for its annual Living Landmarks Celebration, set to take place on November 5 at the iconic Plaza Hotel. This year, the event will honor Aerin Lauder, a prominent figure in the worlds of beauty and philanthropy. As the granddaughter of Estée Lauder, founder of the Estée Lauder Companies, and niece of the late Leonard Lauder, Aerin has made her own significant mark. She is not only the style and design director of Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv but also the founder of her own lifestyle brand, Aerin, which she established in 2012. Beyond her business endeavors, Aerin is involved with numerous cultural and charitable organizations, serving on various boards including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies.
Aerin Lauder’s impressive lineage plays a significant role in her identity, yet it is her own artistic vision that truly sets her apart. Her journey in beauty and design led to the creation of Aerin, a comprehensive brand that includes furniture, fashion, home décor, and a cosmetics line. The skin care and fragrance aspects of her brand operate under the Estée Lauder umbrella, yet Aerin LLC remains independently owned. This blend of tradition and innovation reflects her heritage while catering to contemporary tastes. Peg Breen, president of The New York Landmarks Conservancy, hailed Aerin as a leader in both business and charity, inspiring others to find beauty in their surroundings.
Aerin has successfully found a niche that resonates across generations. This is evident through her collaborations, such as a recent partnership with Pottery Barn Teen to create a collection designed specifically for high school and college students. This, alongside her earlier tableware collection with Williams Sonoma, demonstrates her commitment to making beauty accessible to all age groups. In her own words, Aerin describes beauty as her heritage, while home decor and accessories fuel her passion. This dual focus reflects a visionary approach—a blend of aesthetics and practicality that speaks to a modern lifestyle.
The upcoming Living Landmarks Celebration will recognize Aerin alongside a distinguished group of honorees, including notable personalities like Bonnie Comley, Mark Ruffalo, and Kenneth Lonergan. The ceremony is likely to draw the attendance of former honorees, celebrating not just individual accomplishments but the collective contributions of this vibrant community. Master of ceremonies Stephen S. Lash and honorary co-chairs Paul Goldberger, Audrey, and Martin Gruss will also lend their support to ensure a memorable evening. Such a gathering underscores the importance of acknowledging those who, through their work, enhance the cultural fabric of New York City.
Aerin’s recognition arrives on the heels of a poignant moment for her family. Just four months ago, they lost her uncle Leonard at the age of 92. His memorial service attracted over 1,300 attendees, representing a cross-section of art, fashion, and beauty, all coming together to honor a life of remarkable accomplishments. This backdrop of personal loss and public celebration adds depth to Aerin’s honor, reminding us of the profound connections between family, heritage, and the broader community.
As Aerin prepares to embrace this honor, her story continues to inspire those in her orbit. Her journey reflects the melding of legacy and innovation, showing that while your roots may guide you, it’s your own vision that ultimately defines your path. Through her work, Aerin encourages others to create beauty in their lives, leveraging her heritage to build a brand that not only celebrates aesthetics but also the lifestyle that accompanies it. The Living Landmarks Celebration is not just an event, but a tribute to the enduring impact of individuals who strive to blend tradition with modernity, forging communities imbued with beauty and purpose.