Charles Revson Quotes

Powerful Charles Revson for Daily Growth

About Charles Revson

Charles Revson, born on March 19, 1906, in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American businessman best known as the co-founder of Revlon Inc., a global beauty and cosmetics company. He was one of nine children born to Jewish immigrant parents from Russia. Revson's entrepreneurial spirit emerged early when, at the age of 14, he dropped out of school to sell perfume samples on the streets of Boston. His ambition grew during a stint in the military, where he discovered his knack for selling and developed a vision for a successful beauty company. In 1932, along with partner Joseph Revson (no relation), Charles founded Revco Laboratories, later renamed Revlon Inc. The duo started their business in a small laboratory in New York City, initially focusing on nail enamels. Their revolutionary idea was to sell directly to consumers through drugstores, bypassing traditional retail outlets. Revson's marketing genius and unconventional strategies revolutionized the beauty industry. He famously said, "In the factory we make cosmetics; in the department store we sell hope." This philosophy helped Revlon become a household name in less than a decade. Revson passed away on January 1, 1975. His influence continues to be felt, with Revlon remaining one of the world's largest beauty companies. Quotes attributed to Charles Revson, though sometimes debated, include: "The best thing to remember about the future is that it comes only one day at a time," and "I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone." These words encapsulate his forward-thinking spirit and determination, which drove him to build a beauty empire from humble beginnings.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"In our business, which is fashion, you don't try to satisfy everybody — you try to be right for your customer."

Charles Revson's quote underscores the importance of understanding and catering to one's target audience in the fashion industry (or any industry). He suggests that it is unrealistic and unnecessary to aim for universal satisfaction, as it would result in a lack of focus and dilute the brand identity. Instead, a successful business strategy in fashion (or any industry) involves identifying the specific needs and preferences of one's customers and tailoring products or services accordingly. In doing so, the company can establish itself as a trusted and relevant choice for its target audience, fostering customer loyalty and driving long-term success.


"The consumer isn't a moron; she is your wife."

This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's perspective, particularly from a business standpoint, as they are often the people closest to you - in this case, wives. Revson suggests that businesses should view their customers not as simple-minded individuals, but rather as intelligent beings with unique needs and preferences. In other words, if businesses can empathize with their customers, they can create products or services that truly resonate with them, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and business success.


"The key to success is the ability to get up just one more time than you can be knocked down."

This quote from Charles Revson emphasizes resilience and perseverance as crucial elements in achieving success. It suggests that setbacks and failures are inevitable on the path to success, but what truly matters is our ability to bounce back stronger than before, continually getting up one more time than we're knocked down. In other words, it's about grit, determination, and an unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.


"The best thing to do with the best people is to leave them alone — unless they are creating problems for you and your firm."

This quote suggests that once one has assembled the best talent, it's crucial to empower them to work independently within defined parameters. However, if these top performers pose challenges or issues for the organization, it becomes necessary to intervene. Essentially, the message is to strike a balance between trusting and nurturing exceptional talent while keeping an eye out for potential problems that could negatively impact the firm.


"We were very fortunate that when we were very young, we had a lot of energy and we had a lot of determination. I think we could have been successful at almost anything we undertook."

Charles Revson's quote suggests that success is closely tied to youthful energy and determination. He implies that if one possesses these qualities, they can likely be successful in any endeavor they undertake, regardless of the specific field or industry. This perspective emphasizes the importance of passion, persistence, and adaptability in achieving one's goals.


In the factory we make cosmetics; in the drugstore we sell hope.

- Charles Revson

Hope, Sell, Factory, Drugstore

Accuracy is to a newspaper what virtue is to a lady, but a newspaper can always print a retraction.

- Charles Revson

Newspaper, Always, Print, Accuracy

The big will get bigger; the small will get wiped out.

- Charles Revson

Small, Big, Will, Wiped

If you can't change your fate, change your attitude.

- Charles Revson

Change, You, Your, Fate

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