In Loving Memory of Leonard A. Lauder
1933–2025
It is with deep sadness and immense respect that I bid farewell to Leonard Lauder – a visionary, a gentleman, and a man who shaped not only the global beauty industry but also the lives of countless individuals, including my own.
View from the Estée Lauder Companies headquarters in New York City.
As a long-time ambassador for Estée Lauder Companies, I had the great privilege of working closely with some of the brands he so passionately nurtured. But what I will carry in my heart forever are the personal memories – the kindness he extended, the Christmas cards he thoughtfully sent each year, the warm invitation to his private residence in New York, and our inspiring conversations in his office. He never treated people as roles or titles – only as human beings.
With Leonard Lauder on the terrace of his Upper East Side home.
Leonard Lauder was much more than a business icon. He was a man of integrity, generosity, and deep emotional intelligence. He had a rare ability to make everyone around him feel seen and valued, whether you were a global executive or a young artist just starting out. His devotion to his employees and collaborators was not just professional – it was personal, genuine, and unwavering.
With his brother Ronald Lauder.
He believed in beauty, not only in product or presentation, but in purpose – in the power of elegance, in the strength of people, and in the legacy of family. Through the Estée Lauder Companies, he created a culture of excellence, empathy, and innovation that continues to inspire the industry.
With his granddaughter Aerin Lauder and Estée Lauder face Carolyn Murphy at an event in NYC.
Leonard, thank you for everything you gave to the world – and to me. Your light will continue to shine through every face you helped empower, every story you touched, and every act of grace you lived by.
With deepest admiration,
Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Estée Lauder Companies and © Sandra Bauknecht
Worn in Episode 80 Gala «Festival» of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.
Worn on MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2 in Episode 72.
With Fausto Puglisi, who designed the Roar bag, for the first collection under his creative direction.
Wearing my vintage Cavalli necklace that inspired Fausto Puglisi to create the Roar bag with its distinctive handle.
Harald Glööckler and I wore our Roar bags (large and small size) in a recent episode of MY STYLE ROCKS.
Worn in Episode 71 of MY STYLE ROCKS.
As worn in MY STYLE ROCKS Episode 69.
As worn in MY STYLE ROCKS Gala Episode 68 «Boho Style».
I loved Valentino under Pierpaolo.
With Pierpaolo Picciolli and Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2013.
Balenciaga S/S 2025 Campaign 
As worn in Gala Episode 62 «Wedding» on MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.
Worn in Episode 59 of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.
