Introducing AS IF Money Were No Object - our monthly series that delves into the lives of designers, celebrities, fashion, and beauty icons, where they define what luxury means to them, their ideal vacation, their favorite fragrances, and discuss their deepest passions.

As the President of the some of the largest and fastest-growing beauty brands in the world, John Demsey doesn’t have a whole lot of time. Demsey currently acts as the creative backbone for the Estee Lauder Companies Inc, the beauty conglomerate that encompasses a a large of portfolio of brands like M.A.C, Tom Ford Beauty, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Le Labo, Jo Malone London, and Smashbox.

For 10 years, in his role as Group President, Demsey has taken the global lead of the Estée Lauder brand, and helped turned brands like Tom Ford into the fastest-growing designer-beauty brand in the world.

But as he continues to elevate and redefine luxury beauty for the current generation, his own definition has also evolved over time.

“Luxury is that rare moment in life when there is a convergence of being happy, stimulated, and carefree. The definition of luxury has a frame of reference that changes throughout a lifetime. During my teens, luxury was having a kick-ass car; in my 20s it was going to Studio 54 and ordering a bottle of Dom Perignon,” he explains. “When I think of luxury today, it’s being able to go away with my daughter and enjoy those moments of being alone together and to make her dreams come true by showing her that the world is filled with unlimited possibilities and to help her achieve those dreams. Another luxury is having a job I love and colleagues I respect and the fortune of having all the products that I love at my disposal so I can share them with all the women in my life. The meaning of luxury has evolved from materialistic to experiential the older and wiser I get.”

In a candid chat with AS IF, he breaks down his ultimate list of experiences and objects that define luxury for him

Pratesi

Going to bed with perfectly pressed and fresh cotton sheets is a luxury. My favorite is Pratesi.

Bungalow 9A at The Beverly Hills Hotel

I am drawn to old-school, classic hotels, and there are a few hotels I like to stay at. One of my favorites is The Beverly Hills Hotel—Bungalow 9A to be specific.

Gifts from Hermès and Tiffany & Co

I love anything that comes in Hermès and Tiffany’s boxes. I’m never disappointed with what’s inside.

Patek Philippe 5980/1A Nautilus Chronograph

I love collecting watches, and my favorite watch is always the one I bought 10 minutes ago! My most recent purchase was the Patek Philippe 5980/1A Nautilus Chronograph.

La Mer

I am a total La Mer fanatic!

Day of Personal Grooming

When I can find the time for a day of personal indulgence, I start with a hot towel shave at my favorite Barber Shop, Paul Mole, followed by a great work-out session with Mary Ann Browning at Browning Fitness; then I head over to Sally Hershberger for a haircut. Deluxe.

Fine Art Photography

One of my passions is collecting photography. I’ve lined many rooms in my home with photographs.