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Leonard A. Lauder Honored with Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in Fashion

The honor was previously given to his mother, Estée Lauder, in 1962.

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By: Lianna Albrizio

Associate Editor

From left: Lana Todorovich, Leonard A. Lauder, and Geoffroy van Raemdonck at the Neiman Marcus Awards.

Leonard A. Lauder, chairman emeritus, The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC), was honored with the 2025 Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion at an awards ceremony on Nov. 13 in New York City.

The honor was previously given to his mother, Estée Lauder, in 1962.

Lauder was recognized for his visionary leadership, long-standing impact on the beauty and luxury industries, brand stewardship and dedication to philanthropy.

“This award means so much to me, just as it meant so much to my mother,” said Lauder, adding that Neiman Marcus has always been a wonderful partner to ELC. “From the very beginning, I have treasured our company’s relationship with Neiman Marcus.”

Lauder recalled how much he loved visiting the Neiman Marcus store in Dallas in his early years at the company.

“I’d always go in the through the employee entrance,” he said. “I’d wave at the employees, they would wave back at me. I felt like I worked there, and I think they did, too. It was wonderful!”

A ‘Singular Force’ Who Changed the Beauty Industry

Leonard A. Lauder with his Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service.

“Leonard Lauder is a singular force who forever changed the beauty industry. His stewardship led The Estée Lauder Companies to become home to some of the world’s most beloved beauty brands,” said Geoffroy van Raemdonck, CEO, Neiman Marcus Group. “Leonard understands the power of relationships and his values continue to remain imbued in the company culture today. Along every step of the way, he has been a remarkable partner in our journey to bring the world’s most exceptional brands to our customers.”

The Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion has honored excellence in the luxury industry since 1938. The prestigious award represents the celebration of brand partners who share an interest in the retailer’s innovative approach to delighting the US luxury customer. Past awardees include Karl Lagerfeld, Elsa Schiaparelli, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Carolina Herrera, among others.


Yearlong Consumer Activation Campaign

The celebration of Lauder’s achievements will include a yearlong consumer activation campaign, led by ELC brands. Through Neiman Marcus’ Retail-tainment initiative, immersive brand experiences and unique displays will engage consumers directly with ELC’s luxury portfolio, while activities across Neiman Marcus’ platforms will ensure high visibility for the brands.

“As I reflect upon the extraordinary partnership between ELC and Neiman Marcus, this award represents a celebration of collaboration and of people working together with a great sense of purpose, bringing their best to the industry,” said Lauder.

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