Bobbi Brown launched her eponymous brand, Bobbi Brown Essentials, at Bergdorf Goodman in 1991, following a 1990 collaboration with a chemist to develop ten natural lipstick shades. The brand achieved remarkable initial success, selling 100 lipsticks in a single day, significantly surpassing projected monthly sales and quickly establishing her innovative natural aesthetic in the beauty industry. Brown had previously moved to New York City in 1980, where she gained recognition for her distinctive approach to makeup, prioritizing moderate tones over the prevalent bright colors of the era. She graduated from Emerson College with a degree in theatrical makeup and photography, which informed her early career.
In late October 2020, Brown made a highly anticipated return to the beauty industry with the introduction of her second beauty brand, Jones Road. Positioned as a ‘clean beauty’ brand, Jones Road focuses on a curated selection of makeup and skincare products, reflecting her enduring commitment to accessible and authentic beauty. Her impact has been recognized by prestigious institutions and publications, including receiving an honorary doctorate from Emerson College and being named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2025, solidifying her status as a visionary entrepreneur and influential figure in wellness and beauty.