Bobbi Brown is an iconic name in the world of beauty—a trailblazing makeup artist, entrepreneur, and author who has transformed the way women perceive and wear makeup. Known for her philosophy of embracing natural beauty, she has left an indelible mark on the global beauty industry and continues to inspire millions through her innovative ventures and empowering voice.
Key Information
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Bobbi Brown |
| Date of Birth | April 14, 1957 |
| Age | 67 (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Wilmette, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Religion | Jewish |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Languages Spoken | English |
| Education | Emerson College, Boston (BA in Theatrical Makeup and Photography) |
| Occupation | Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur, Author, Hotelier |
| Years Active | 1980s–present |
| Spouse | Steven Plofker |
| Children | Three sons |
| Residence | Montclair, New Jersey, USA |
| Other Businesses | The George Inn (boutique hotel), 18 Label (creative production studio) |
| Founder of | Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Jones Road Beauty |
| Notable Publications | Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual, Beauty Rules, Still Bobbi (2025) |
| Social Media Presence | Instagram: @justbobbidotcom |
| Favorite Makeup Product | Foundation Stick (natural finish, multipurpose) |
| Hobbies | Interior design, photography, writing, mentoring young women |
| Philanthropy | Supports education, female entrepreneurship, and wellness causes |
| Awards & Honors | Glamour Women of the Year, TIME 100 (2025), CEW Achiever Award |
| Diet & Lifestyle | Wellness-focused; supports clean eating and regular fitness routines |
| Famous Quote | “The secret to beauty is simple – be who you are.” |
| Mentors | She often credits her mother and real-world experiences as key influences |
| Signature Style | Classic, minimal makeup with a focus on glowing skin |
| Pet | Has mentioned her love for dogs in interviews (name not widely publicized) |
| Books Inspired By | Bobbi has spoken about her love for motivational and business books |
| Public Speaker | Regularly speaks at women’s leadership events and entrepreneurship forums |
| Media Appearances | Featured on Oprah, The Today Show, and multiple beauty publications |
Early Life and Education
Born on April 14, 1957, in Wilmette, Illinois, Bobbi, who loved beauty and fashion, served as her earliest inspiration. Despite struggling with self-esteem during her teenage years, Bobbi’s fascination with makeup became her creative outlet.
After high school, Bobbi pursued theatrical makeup and photography at Emerson College in Boston, where she earned her degree. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for a career that would soon challenge industry norms and expectations.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
In the early 1980s, Bobbi moved to New York City, driven by the dream of becoming a professional makeup artist. At a time when the beauty world favored bold, dramatic looks, Bobbi envisioned a more natural and subtle approach to makeup—one that celebrated individuality.
Her big break came in 1991 when she launched Bobbi Brown Essentials, a modest line of 10 lipstick shades based on natural tones. The response was overwhelming. Women resonated with her message: “Be who you are.” Her philosophy quickly gained momentum, and her brand stood out as a refreshing alternative to the heavy, artificial looks popular at the time.
Building a Beauty Empire
By 1995, Estée Lauder acquired Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, a significant milestone that allowed the brand to scale globally. Despite the acquisition, Bobbi maintained creative control, ensuring that the core values of authenticity and simplicity remained intact.
Over the next two decades, Bobbi’s name became synonymous with effortless beauty. She authored several best-selling books, launched skincare lines, and became a household name in beauty education and self-care. Her makeup brand was available in over 70 countries and celebrated by celebrities, professionals, and everyday women alike.
New Ventures: Jones Road Beauty
In 2016, Bobbi stepped away from her namesake brand to explore new directions. Four years later, she returned to the spotlight with Jones Road Beauty, a clean beauty brand that continues her legacy of simplicity and quality. Focused on high-performance, multi-use products made from safe ingredients, Jones Road emphasizes a less-is-more approach that aligns with modern skincare values.
Author and Advocate
Bobbi is also a prolific author. Her books—ranging from beauty guides to wellness inspiration—have encouraged women to embrace their uniqueness. In 2025, she is set to release her memoir, Still Bobbi, in which she reflects on her career, family, and lessons learned from decades in the beauty industry.
Beyond business, Bobbi champions wellness, entrepreneurship, and confidence. She regularly mentors young professionals, speaks on leadership panels, and uses her platforms to promote positive self-image.
Personal Life
Bobbi Brown is married to Steven Plofker, and the couple has three sons. They reside in Montclair, New Jersey, where Bobbi also operates The George, a boutique hotel she designed herself. Known for her grounded nature, Bobbi balances her high-profile career with a commitment to family, creativity, and community.
Legacy
Bobbi Brown’s influence goes beyond lipstick and eyeliner. She revolutionized the definition of beauty by encouraging women to look like themselves, only better. Her vision has shaped not just faces but mindsets, reminding the world that beauty is about being comfortable in your own skin.
As she continues to inspire a new generation through clean beauty, storytelling, and empowerment, Bobbi Brown remains a powerful figure, proof that authenticity never goes out of style.
Interesting Facts About Bobbi Brown
- Pioneer of Natural Makeup:
In the early ’90s, when flashy makeup was the norm, Bobbi revolutionized the beauty world with her natural, skin-tone flattering lipstick shades. - Sold Her Company to Estée Lauder:
She sold Bobbi Brown Cosmetics to Estée Lauder in 1995 but remained with the company for over two decades before stepping down in 2016. - Launched a New Brand at 63:
In 2020, she founded Jones Road Beauty, a clean beauty brand, showing that reinvention has no age limit. - A Published Author:
She has written multiple beauty and wellness books and is set to release her memoir, Still Bobbi, in 2025. - Runs a Hotel:
Bobbi owns and designed The George, a Montclair, New Jersey boutique hotel, reflecting her passion for interiors and hospitality. - Promotes Wellness and Confidence:
Beyond makeup, Bobbi advocates for healthy lifestyles and self-confidence, speaking frequently on women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship. - Influenced by Her Mother:
Her love for makeup began at an early age by watching her stylish mother, who always dressed up and wore makeup, even around the house. - Not Just Beauty—Also Business Savvy:
Bobbi is a respected businesswoman and often mentors young entrepreneurs, especially women entering the beauty and wellness sectors. - Featured in TIME 100 (2025):
Recognized for her enduring influence in the beauty world and her commitment to clean beauty and authenticity. - Multifaceted Creative:
In addition to makeup, she enjoys photography, design, writing, and content creation across digital platforms.
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