Elizabeth Arden, born Florence Nightingale Graham, on December 31, 1878, in Woodbridge, Canada, was one of the wealthiest women of her time. She was the daughter of William Graham, a Scottish emigrant, and Susan. Growing up, Elizabeth showed an interest in beauty and skincare, which would later become her passion and the foundation of her empire.
At the young age of 19, Elizabeth moved to New York City with her brother, seeking new opportunities. She began working as a bookkeeper for the E.R. Squibb Pharmaceuticals Company, where she gained valuable business experience. It was during this time in New York that Elizabeth discovered her love for the beauty industry and decided to pursue it as a career.
With a keen eye for business and a drive for success, Elizabeth founded her cosmetics company in 1910, which would eventually become a billion-dollar empire. She was a pioneer in the beauty industry, introducing new concepts and products that revolutionized the way women cared for their skin.
Elizabeth was known for her innovative approach to beauty. She was the first to introduce the "Total Beauty" concept, which promoted skincare as an essential part of a woman's daily routine. She created a wide range of products, from creams and lotions to makeup and fragrances, all with the goal of enhancing a woman's natural beauty.
Elizabeth's success extended beyond her business ventures. She was a trailblazer for women in the workforce, breaking barriers and paving the way for future female entrepreneurs. Her dedication to empowering women and promoting self-care made her an icon in the beauty industry and beyond.
In 1915, Elizabeth married Thomas Lewis, and together they worked to expand her cosmetics empire. However, the demands of their work eventually led to their divorce. Despite the challenges she faced in her personal life, Elizabeth remained focused on her business and continued to grow her company.
Elizabeth's talent and reputation attracted a wide range of celebrity clients, including the iconic Marilyn Monroe. Her products became a staple in Hollywood and beyond, solidifying her status as a beauty industry legend.
Elizabeth Arden passed away on October 18, 1966, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the beauty industry. Her cosmetics empire continues to thrive, offering women around the world innovative and high-quality products. Elizabeth's impact on the beauty industry and her dedication to empowering women remain an inspiration to this day.