What the Epstein files reveal about the beauty and fashion industry
Sydney Morning Herald
by Lauren IronmongerFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jeffrey Epstein’s recently released email correspondence has unveiled shocking connections between the disgraced financier and influential figures in the beauty and fashion industries. These emails reveal how Epstein leveraged his ties to these sectors to exert control and recruit victims, including his involvement as an investor in Allergan Aesthetics, the maker of Botox, and his interest in funding genetic research into beauty at Harvard. While the mere mention of names in the files doesn’t imply guilt, the inclusion of high-profile figures like Leslie Wexner, Ronald Lauder, and Vera Wang has sparked calls for boycotts from some online users.
Leslie Wexner, former CEO of Victoria’s Secret and a longtime associate of Epstein, has faced criticism despite maintaining his innocence. He was tied to Epstein through financial dealings and listed as one of the financier’s alleged co-conspirators in trafficking. Similarly, Ronald Lauder, chairman of Estée Lauder International, appears over 900 times in the files, with records showing Epstein facilitated a joint ownership deal for an $25 million painting between Lauder and Leon Black. These details raise questions about the cosmetics giant’s involvement with Epstein.
The emails also highlight Epstein’s philanthropic image, with interactions involving charity events and business lunches, suggesting a calculated effort to maintain his reputation. Meanwhile, Vera Wang, a renowned fashion designer, has been linked to Epstein in previous investigations but no concrete evidence of wrongdoing has emerged. The fallout has sparked debates over the impact of boycotts on luxury brands, with industry experts like Trent Rigby skeptical about their long-term effectiveness in harming sales.
The revelations underscore the dark side of Epstein’s influence in high society and business circles. While some brands may face reputational damage, founder-led businesses are more likely to be scrutinized for their connections to Epstein. The broader implication is a call for greater transparency and accountability within the beauty and fashion industries, as consumers demand clearer stances on ethical practices.
Ultimately, this scandal highlights the dangerous interplay between power, money, and influence in elite circles. For readers interested in global news and the intersection of business and ethics, these revelations provide a chilling glimpse into Epstein’s far-reaching network and its impact on some of the world’s most recognizable brands and individuals.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026