Lip Gloss and Liquor: The New Celebrity Hustle

It feels like every time a celebrity posts on Instagram, they’re launching either a skincare line or a new tequila brand. From Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty to Kendall Jenner’s 818 Tequila, the trend is clear: Hollywood isn’t just about movies or music anymore- it’s about moisturisers and mezcal.

But why are so many celebrities suddenly beauty gurus and alcohol experts?

The beauty industry is booming. Skincare and cosmetics offer high profit margins and constant demand. People will always buy products that promise better skin, especially if they come with the glow of celebrity endorsement. Rihanna’s massive success with Fenty showed just how profitable a well-executed beauty brand can be, and now, every A-lister wants in. Whether or not they know the difference between hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid is beside the point- their name alone can move millions of units.

Alcohol is no different. After George Clooney sold Casamigos Tequila for $1 billion, the celebrity liquor rush began. Alcohol is relatively easy to market and emotionally tied to lifestyle and luxury- two things celebrities already sell effortlessly. 

Being a celebrity today isn’t just about talent- it’s about building a brand. Diversifying into beauty or booze helps keep them relevant, wealthy, and in control of their public image.

While some celebrity brands offer real quality and thoughtful design, others feel like quick cash-ins riding on name recognition alone. As the market gets more crowded, consumers are catching on- they're no longer swayed by star power alone. They’re looking for products that deliver on substance, not just celebrity.

Most celebrities aren’t actual beauty gurus or alcohol experts but in today’s influence-driven economy, that doesn’t matter. Image outweighs expertise and as long as they look the part, they have something to sell.

Love, Aria 

XO