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Ugly Beauty: Helena Rubinstein, L'Oreal, And The Blemished History Of Looking Good (2011)

by Ruth Brandon(Favorite Author)

2.87 of 5 Votes: 5

ISBN

0061740403 (ISBN13: 9780061740404)

languge

English

genre

History & Biography

publisher

Harper

review 1: Didn't finish, which is rare for me. It's so boring, and the subject isn't important enough for me to care. It's not the "Blemished History of Looking Good" it's a weird investigation into the backgrounds of the 2 companies in the subtitle, during WW2 and how much they collaborated. Too many facts and names, not enough character building. The beginning started out ok, all the parts about Helena getting her company started were alright, but it bogged down quickly with L'Oreal and doesn't show any sign of getting better, as we're on the next generation and I can't keep any of them straight. And I made it through War and Peace, enjoyably! Don't waste your time on this one.
review 2: Not quite what I expected but still very interesting. A history of Helena Rubinst... moreein, born poor in Poland and largely self-taught, she became the founder of a cosmetics empire. She was a workaholic, and included family in her businesses throughout the world. Her empire enabled her to have remarkable riches and the freedom to live the life she wanted. The other company showcased is L'Oreal, founded by a scientist Eugene Schuller, also from a poor background, but with the advantage of a good education behind him. His ties to the Nazi party and resultant scandals are chronicled at length. He believed that women exist to support men, and ironically built one of the richest companies in the world that depends on the vanity of women for it's profits. L'Oreal acquired Helena Rubinstein in 1988 and is almost entirely male dominated, something that would surely outrage Madame Rubinstein. It makes me think twice about where I should spend my cosmetics dollars! less

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