Glossier is one of the most well-known brands of our generation. It is known for its minimalistic products that prioritize skincare first and makeup second. I love their unique packaging and modern, artistic approach to beauty routines.

When I first saw this book, I worried that I would learn about a dark side of the brand and wouldn’t want to continue to buy their products. Thankfully, the dirt on Glossy is nothing to the extremes I feared. Its purpose is to enlighten readers about the difficulties Glossier endured to rise to the top, stay on top, and ultimately become the name they are today.

Glossy focuses on the founder, Emily Weiss, and the start of her career. Early in her life, she was recognized for her fearless, memorable personality and fashion sense. It was interesting to read about how Weiss went from a Vogue intern, model, and beauty blogger with revered style to the daring founder of a wildly popular “start-up” brand.

The book also talks about another key component of Glossier’s journey: its fall from grace. An Instagram account called Outta The Gloss (a play on Weiss’ Into The Gloss, the blog that started it all) publicized issues of poor work conditions, pay, and inclusivity. Glossier also struggled during the pandemic when other brands posed a threat to their success. Glossy explains how Glossier managed to come out on the other side.

To be honest, while I was reading, my interest would go up and down as I was bored by professional, business terms and excited by each new big event in the plot and mentions of Glossier products. If you’re interested in entrepreneurship or anything in the business realm, I think this book will provide insight into one woman’s experience with creating a sensation—building connections, funding the brand, and advertising through media. Glossy told me about all of these crucial aspects of inventing a revolutionary brand.

The author of this book, Marisa Meltzer, is a journalist who has written for many famous publications. Glossy includes a few interviews with Emily Weiss herself, and hearing the voice of a journalist recount those interviews was entertaining. Meltzer’s writing was factual, but could also be poetic; I admire her writing style and how she makes regular topics fun to read.

Glossy brings up the definition of “girlboss,” the lipstick theory, the iconic millennial pink, and even some politics. Overall, this fresh and honest book is a great read.

Glossy by Marisa Meltzer is available to download for free from Libby.