Confessions of an Ex-Glossier Employee: "No, We Didn't Need the Book"

As an ex-employee of Glossier, I was eager to read Glossy: Ambition, Beauty, and the Inside Story of Emily Weiss's Glossier. As someone with four years of experience on the inside, I was curious to know what someone outside of the millennial pink walls had to say about the brand.

Upon completion of the book, I found myself filled with unanswered questions. As someone who saw Glossier's struggles during the pandemic's onset, I braced myself for a grim narrative but was relieved when it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated. Nonetheless, I didn't come across any novel insights from the book based on my personal and professional judgment. Marisa Meltzer, the author, expertly narrated Emily Weiss's and Glossier's journey, drawing from her extensive experience as a devoted fan of the brand and a veteran in the beauty industry.

A lot of my peers and friends who knew about my stint with the G were eager to hear insider stories — a common trait among Glossier fans. For those not in the know, the book came as a surprise, a compilation of gossipy tales brought to life from the anecdotes they'd come across on social media.

To be honest, reading it made me feel awkward and embarrassed on Emily's behalf. The book is not an attack on Emily, but when there are so many male founders committing egregious acts against their employees and families, was there really a need for a book about a woman merely pursuing her passion? I'd say no for $500 USD, Alex.

@huntrbiden i reviewed the glossier book for the new york times