UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                             ----------------------

                                    FORM 8-K

                                 CURRENT REPORT
     Pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

                Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)
                                January 27, 2005

                         The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

           Delaware                     1-14064                 11-2408943
 (State or other jurisdiction   (Commission File Number)       (IRS Employer
       of incorporation)                                     Identification No.)


   767 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York                            10153
 (Address of principal executive offices)                        (Zip Code)

               Registrant's telephone number, including area code
                                  212-572-4200

                                 Not Applicable
          (Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to
simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the
following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):

[ ] Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act
    (17 CFR 230.425)

[ ] Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR
    240.14a-12)

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange
    Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange
    Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
<PAGE>
ITEM 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On January 27, 2005, The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (the "Company") issued a
press release announcing its financial results for the fiscal quarter and six
months ended December 31, 2004. The release also includes estimates for its
fiscal 2005 second half and full year net sales and diluted earnings per share.
A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is
incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM  9.01  Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(c) Exhibits.

Exhibit No.      Description
-----------      -----------

   99.1          Press release dated January 27, 2005 of The Estee Lauder
                 Companies Inc.



                                   SIGNATURES

         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned hereunto duly authorized.


                                                 THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

Date:  January 27, 2005                          By:    /s/Richard W. Kunes
                                                    ----------------------------
                                                           Richard W. Kunes
                                                       Executive Vice President
                                                     and Chief Financial Officer
                                                      (Principal Financial and
                                                         Accounting Officer)
<PAGE>
                         THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

                                  EXHIBIT INDEX



Exhibit No.     Description
-----------     -----------

 99.1           Press release dated January 27, 2005 of The Estee Lauder
                Companies Inc.
<PAGE>
                                                                Exhibit No. 99.1

THE                                                                         News
ESTEE                                                                   Contact:
LAUDER                                                       Investor Relations:
COMPANIES INC.                                                   Dennis D'Andrea
                                                                  (212) 572-4384


767 Fifth Avenue                                                Media Relations:
New York, NY  10153                                                 Sally Susman
                                                                  (212) 572-4430
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

            ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES SECOND QUARTER NET SALES CLIMB 8%

              DILUTED PER SHARE EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
                              INCREASE 10% TO $.60


New York, NY, January 27, 2005 - The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE: EL)
today reported net sales for its second fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2004
of $1.75 billion, an 8% increase over the $1.62 billion reported in the prior
year. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, net sales rose 5%.

The Company reported net earnings from continuing operations for the quarter
ended December 31, 2004 of $138.3 million, up 10% from $126.3 million last year.
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations for the quarter
rose 10% to $.60 from $.54 reported in the prior year. Net earnings and diluted
earnings per share for the quarter increased 45% and 46%, respectively, compared
with the prior year, including discontinued operations.

William P. Lauder, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are pleased
to report another quarter of solid sales and earnings growth, reflecting the
global appeal of the Company's products despite a mixed retail environment this
holiday season. Sales grew in all major product categories and geographic
regions, aided by a favorable currency environment. We continue to benefit from
our global sourcing and manufacturing initiatives as well as ongoing cost
containment efforts. These enable us to increase our marketing expenditures to
further enhance our brands while meeting our profitability goals. Importantly,
we continue to invest in new brands, new channels and new geographic
distribution to fuel future growth."

Mr. Lauder added, "In view of our results for the first half of fiscal 2005, we
believe we have the programs in place to achieve our full year targets of
approximately 7% constant currency sales growth and earnings per share in the
range of $1.88 to $1.93."


                                  Page 1 of 7
<PAGE>
Results by Product Category
---------------------------

Net sales of skin care products for the quarter increased 8% to $617.4 million
on a reported basis and rose 4% in local currencies. The higher sales reflected
recent launches from Estee Lauder of Future Perfect Anti-Wrinkle Radiance Creme
SPF 15 and Nutritious Vita-Mineral Energy Lotion, as well as Clinique's
Superdefense Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 25. Strong sales of The Lifting Face
Serum, The Lifting Intensifier and The Concentrate from La Mer also contributed
to growth.

Makeup sales for the quarter rose a strong 12% to $592.4 million on a reported
basis and increased 10% in local currencies. Solid growth was generated from the
Company's makeup artist brands, M.A.C, Bobbi Brown and Stila. Recent products
like M.A.C's Veluxe Pearl Eye Shadow and Zoom Lash and Bobbi Brown's Creamy
Concealer and Shimmer Brick performed well during the quarter. Strong sales of
Superbalanced Compact Makeup SPF 20, the Colour Surge line of products and
Perfectly Real Makeup from Clinique, as well as Electric Intense LipCreme and
Lash XL Maximum Length Mascara from Estee Lauder contributed to the sales
increase. The makeup category also benefited from the inclusion of the Company's
new American Beauty and Flirt! brands.

Fragrance sales increased 3% to $458.6 million on a reported basis and decreased
1% in local currencies compared to the prior-year quarter. This category was up
against a difficult comparison to the prior-year quarter which grew 16%
reflecting several major launches. Fragrance sales benefited from the recent
launches of True Star from Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY Be Delicious and Lauder Beyond
Paradise Men. The continued soft fragrance business and saturation of industry
launches, particularly in the United States, continues to challenge prior year
launches and some existing fragrances.

Sales of hair care products and services for the quarter rose 14% to $71.6
million on a reported basis and increased 12% in local currencies, due primarily
to higher sales at Aveda and Bumble and bumble. Aveda net sales growth was due
to recent product launches such as Pure Abundance, Air Control Hair Spray and
new professional color products, as well as increased concept salon
distribution. Bumble and bumble sales increased due to the recent launch of its
hair and scalp treatment line and new salon openings.

Operating income increased in makeup, skin care and hair care due to higher
sales. Fragrance operating income was relatively flat and continued to reflect
the soft fragrance business, ongoing development costs for new products and
brands and sustained support spending behind existing products.

Results by Geographic Region
----------------------------

In the Americas, net sales for the quarter increased 9% to $877.7 million. The
increase was due to the success of new and certain existing products, growth
from virtually all brands, particularly M.A.C, higher results in Canada and the
inclusion of sales of BeautyBank products. All major product categories in this
region had sales growth. Operating income in the Americas increased due to the
higher sales. Profitability in this region in the current-year quarter reflects
more normalized levels following a decrease in the prior-year quarter.


                                  Page 2 of 7
<PAGE>
In Europe, the Middle East & Africa, net sales increased 7% from the prior-year
period to $628.9 million, and were relatively flat in local currency. This
region was up against a very difficult comparison to the prior-year quarter when
net sales grew 34%. In constant currency, sales were led by the United Kingdom,
offset by lower sales in Italy, Spain and Austria. Operating profitability
decreased reflecting lower results from our travel retail and distributor
businesses, as well as a decline in Italy.

Asia/Pacific net sales grew 7% over the prior-year quarter to $243.7 million. On
a local currency basis, this region's net sales rose 4% with Taiwan, China and
Hong Kong posting the strongest double-digit growth. These increases were
partially offset by lower sales in Japan and Korea. Operating profit in the
region decreased reflecting lower results in Korea as well as China, where we
continue to invest in new brand expansion and business opportunities.

Six-Month Results
-----------------

For the six months ended December 31, 2004, the Company reported net sales of
$3.25 billion, a 10% increase from $2.97 billion in the comparable prior-year
period. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, net sales rose 7%.
The Company reported net earnings from continuing operations of $233.3 million
for the six months, up 14% from $204.0 million in the same period last year.
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations for the six months
ended December 31, 2004 were $1.01, a 15% increase from $.88 reported in the
prior-year period. Net earnings and diluted earnings per share for the six
months increased 35% and 36%, respectively, compared with the prior year,
including discontinued operations.

Cash Flows
----------

For the six months ended December 31, 2004, the Company generated $298.4 million
in cash flow from operating activities compared with $382.2 million in the
prior-year period. The change primarily resulted from higher net earnings from
continuing operations offset by increases in certain working capital components,
including significant deferred compensation and supplemental pension payments.
Operating cash flow was utilized primarily for capital investments, the
repurchase of shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock and dividend
payments.

Estimate of Fiscal 2005 Second Half and Full Year
-------------------------------------------------

Net sales for the second half of fiscal 2005 are expected to grow approximately
9% in dollars, including a currency translation benefit of approximately two
percentage points, versus fiscal 2004's second half. Geographic region net sales
growth in constant currency is expected to be led by the Americas and Europe,
the Middle East & Africa, followed by Asia/Pacific. On a product category basis,
in constant currency, hair care and fragrance are expected to be the leading
growth categories, followed by skin care and makeup. The Company expects to
achieve diluted earnings per share of between $.87 and $.92 for the second half.

For the Company's fiscal 2005 full-year results, reported net sales are expected
to grow between 9% and 10% in dollars, which reflects a benefit of approximately
two to three percentage points of foreign currency translation impact, versus
fiscal 2004. At the same time the Company continues to expect to achieve diluted
earnings per share of between $1.88 and $1.93 for the fiscal 2005 year.


                                  Page 3 of 7
<PAGE>
Geographic region net sales growth in constant currency is expected to be led by
the Americas and Europe, the Middle East & Africa, followed by Asia/Pacific. On
a product category basis, in constant currency, hair care and makeup are
expected to be the leading sales growth categories, followed by skin care and
fragrance.

Forward-looking Statements
--------------------------

The forward-looking statements in this press release, including those containing
words like "believe" and "expect," those in Mr. Lauder's remarks and those in
the "Estimate of Fiscal 2005 Second Half and Full Year" section involve risks
and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
from those forward-looking statements include the following:
     (1)  increased competitive activity from companies in the skin care,
          makeup, fragrance and hair care businesses, some of which have greater
          resources than the Company does;
     (2)  the Company's ability to develop, produce and market new products on
          which future operating results may depend;
     (3)  consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies and reorganizations in
          the retail industry causing a decrease in the number of stores that
          sell the Company's products, an increase in the ownership
          concentration within the retail industry, ownership of retailers by
          the Company's competitors and ownership of competitors by the
          Company's customers that are retailers;
     (4)  shifts in the preferences of consumers as to where and how they shop
          for the types of products and services the Company sells;
     (5)  social, political and economic risks to the Company's foreign or
          domestic manufacturing, distribution and retail operations, including
          changes in foreign investment and trade policies and regulations of
          the host countries and of the United States;
     (6)  changes in the laws, regulations and policies that affect, or will
          affect, the Company's business, including changes in accounting
          standards, tax laws and regulations, trade rules and customs
          regulations, and the outcome and expense of legal or regulatory
          proceedings, and any action the Company may take as a result;
     (7)  foreign currency fluctuations affecting the Company's results of
          operations and the value of its foreign assets, the relative prices at
          which the Company and its foreign competitors sell products in the
          same markets and the Company's operating and manufacturing costs
          outside of the United States;
     (8)  changes in global or local economic conditions that could affect
          consumer purchasing, the willingness of consumers to travel, the
          financial strength of the Company's customers and suppliers, the cost
          and availability of capital, which the Company may need for new
          equipment, facilities or acquisitions, the cost and availability of
          raw materials and the assumptions underlying the Company's critical
          accounting estimates;
     (9)  shipment delays, depletion of inventory and increased production costs
          resulting from disruptions of operations at any of the facilities
          which, due to consolidations in the Company's manufacturing
          operations, now manufacture nearly all of the Company's supply of a
          particular type of product (i.e., focus factories);
     (10) real estate rates and availability, which may affect the Company's
          ability to increase the number of retail locations at which the
          Company sells its products and the costs associated with the Company's
          other facilities;
     (11) changes in product mix to products which are less profitable;
     (12) the Company's ability to acquire or develop new information and
          distribution technologies, on a timely basis and within the Company's
          cost estimates;
     (13) the Company's ability to capitalize on opportunities for improved
          efficiency, such as globalization, and to integrate acquired
          businesses and realize value therefrom;
     (14) consequences attributable to the events that are currently taking
          place in the Middle East, including further attacks, retaliation and
          the threat of further attacks or retaliation; and
     (15) the impact of repatriating, or planning to repatriate, certain of the
          Company's foreign earnings to the United States in connection with The
          American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.


                                  Page 4 of 7
<PAGE>
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world's leading manufacturers and
marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. The
Company's products are sold in over 130 countries and territories under
well-recognized brand names, including Estee Lauder, Clinique, Aramis,
Prescriptives, Origins, M.A.C, Bobbi Brown, Tommy Hilfiger, La Mer, Donna Karan,
Aveda, Stila, Jo Malone, Bumble and bumble, kate spade beauty, Darphin, Michael
Kors, Rodan + Fields, American Beauty, Flirt!, Good Skin(TM) and Donald Trump
The Fragrance.

An electronic version of this release can be found at the Company's website,
www.elcompanies.com.
--------------------

                                - Tables Follow -


                                  Page 5 of 7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                         THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
                         SUMMARY OF CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
             (Unaudited; Dollars in millions, except per share data)

                                                               Three Months Ended               Six Months Ended
                                                                   December 31      Percent        December 31      Percent
                                                               ------------------               ----------------
                                                                2004       2003     Change       2004       2003    Change
                                                                ----       ----     ------       ----       ----    ------
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>       <C>

Net Sales.................................................     $1,750.3   $1,619.1    8.1%     $3,254.4   $2,965.7    9.7%

Cost of sales.............................................        448.0      412.7                859.3      776.8
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Gross Profit..............................................      1,302.3    1,206.4    7.9%      2,395.1    2,188.9    9.4%
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
       Gross Margin.......................................         74.4%      74.5%                73.6%      73.8%

Operating expenses:
   Selling, general and administrative....................      1,071.8      980.3              2,009.3    1,828.8
   Related party royalties................................         -           7.1                 -          11.4
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
                                                                1,071.8      987.4    8.5%      2,009.3    1,840.2    9.2%
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
       Operating Expense Margin...........................         61.2%      61.0%                61.7%      62.0%

Operating Income .........................................        230.5      219.0    5.3%        385.8      348.7   10.6%
       Operating Income Margin............................         13.2%      13.5%                11.9%      11.8%

Interest expense, net.....................................          3.3        7.2                  7.4       14.9
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Earnings before Income Taxes, Minority Interest
   and Discontinued Operations............................        227.2      211.8    7.3%        378.4      333.8   13.4%

Provision for income taxes................................         85.5       80.7                141.5      124.8
Minority interest, net of tax.............................         (3.4)      (4.8)                (3.6)      (5.0)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Net Earnings from Continuing Operations...................        138.3      126.3    9.5%        233.3      204.0   14.4%

Discontinued operations, net of  tax (A)..................         -         (30.6)                -         (31.3)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Net Earnings..............................................     $  138.3   $   95.7   44.5%     $  233.3   $  172.7   35.1%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Basic net earnings per common share:
   Net earnings from continuing operations................     $    .61   $    .55   11.1%     $   1.03   $    .89   15.3%
   Discontinued operations, net of tax....................         -          (.13)                 -         (.13)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
   Net earnings ..........................................     $    .61   $    .42   46.7%     $   1.03   $    .76   36.2%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Diluted net earnings per common share:
   Net earnings from continuing operations................     $    .60   $    .54   10.4%     $   1.01   $    .88   14.7%
   Discontinued operations, net of tax....................          -         (.13)                  -        (.13)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
   Net earnings ..........................................     $    .60   $    .41   46.0%     $   1.01   $    .75   35.6%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Weighted average common shares outstanding:
   Basic..................................................        225.6      228.6                226.4      228.3
   Diluted................................................        229.2      231.6                230.2      231.1
</TABLE>

(A) In February 2004, the Company sold the assets and operations of its
reporting unit that sold jane brand products. Prior to the sale of the business,
in December 2003, the Company committed to a plan to sell such assets and
operations. At the time such decisions were made, circumstances warranted that
the Company conduct an assessment of the tangible and intangible assets of this
business. Based on this assessment, the Company determined that the carrying
amount of these assets as reflected on the Company's consolidated balance sheets
exceeded their estimated fair value. Accordingly, the Company recorded an
after-tax charge to discontinued operations of $30.6 and $31.3 million for the
three months and six months ended December 31, 2003, respectively. The charge
represents the impairment of goodwill in the amount of $26.4 million, the
reduction in value of other tangible assets held for sale of $1.2 million, net
of tax, and the operating loss of $3.0 million and $3.7 million, net of tax, for
the three months and six months ended December 31, 2003, respectively. Included
in the operating loss of both prior-year periods were additional costs
associated with the sale and discontinuation of the business.


                                  Page 6 of 7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                                                    THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

                                                 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                                                       (Unaudited; In millions)

                                                                         December 31         June 30       December 31
                                                                            2004              2004            2003
                                                                            ----              ----            ----
<S>                                                                        <C>                  <C>           <C>
                                                            ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents..............................................   $   577.9        $   611.6        $   869.9
Accounts receivable, net...............................................       844.4            664.9            767.8
Inventory and promotional merchandise, net.............................       699.1            653.5            574.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets..............................       283.1            269.2            246.7
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Current Assets..............................................     2,404.5          2,199.2          2,458.7
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------

Property, Plant and Equipment, net.....................................       683.1            647.0            621.7
Other Assets  .........................................................       867.2            861.9            889.8
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Assets......................................................   $ 3,954.8        $ 3,708.1        $ 3,970.2
                                                                          =========        =========        =========

                                                 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Short-term debt........................................................   $    80.4        $    73.8        $     4.9
Accounts payable.......................................................       293.6            267.3            232.9
Other current liabilities..............................................     1,091.6            980.9          1,077.2
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Current Liabilities.........................................     1,465.6          1,322.0          1,315.0
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
Noncurrent Liabilities
Long-term debt.........................................................       472.8            461.5            828.4
Other noncurrent liabilities and minority interest.....................       215.1            191.1            238.6
Total Stockholders' Equity.............................................     1,801.3          1,733.5          1,588.2
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity........................   $ 3,954.8        $ 3,708.1        $ 3,970.2
                                                                          =========        =========        =========
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
                                                        SELECTED CASH FLOW DATA
                                                       (Unaudited; In millions)
                                                                                                  Six Months Ended
                                                                                                     December 31
                                                                                                  ----------------
                                                                                                  2004         2003
                                                                                                  ----         ----
<S>                                                                                                <C>         <C>

Cash Flows from Operating Activities
   Net earnings.........................................................................        $ 233.3     $  172.7
   Depreciation and amortization........................................................           94.5         91.8
   Deferred income taxes................................................................           22.1         (0.3)
   Discontinued operations..............................................................            -           31.3
   Other items..........................................................................            2.8          8.5
   Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
       Increase in accounts receivable, net.............................................         (128.6)      (103.5)
       Decrease (increase) in inventory and promotional merchandise, net................          (15.1)        38.8
       Increase in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities.......................           91.0        138.3
       Other operating assets and liabilities, net......................................           (1.6)         4.6
                                                                                                -------     --------
         Net cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations.....        $ 298.4     $  382.2
                                                                                                =======     ========

   Capital expenditures.................................................................          103.8         87.7
   Payments to acquire treasury stock...................................................          187.7         19.6
   Dividends paid.......................................................................           90.1          -
</TABLE>

                                                    # # #



                                                 Page 7 of 7
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{"company-data": {"conformed-name": "ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC", "cik": "0001001250", "assigned-sic": "2844", "irs-number": "112408943", "state-of-incorporation": "DE", "fiscal-year-end": "0630"}, "filing-values": {"form-type": "8-K", "act": "34", "file-number": "001-14064", "film-number": "05551844"}, "business-address": {"street1": "767 FIFTH AVE", "city": "NEW YORK", "state": "NY", "zip": "10153", "phone": "2125724200"}, "mail-address": {"street1": "767 FIFTH AVE", "city": "NEW YORK", "state": "NY", "zip": "10153"}}
UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                             ----------------------

                                    FORM 8-K

                                 CURRENT REPORT
     Pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

                Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)
                                January 27, 2005

                         The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

           Delaware                     1-14064                 11-2408943
 (State or other jurisdiction   (Commission File Number)       (IRS Employer
       of incorporation)                                     Identification No.)

   767 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York                            10153
 (Address of principal executive offices)                        (Zip Code)

               Registrant's telephone number, including area code
                                  212-572-4200

                                 Not Applicable
          (Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to
simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the
following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):

[ ] Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act
    (17 CFR 230.425)

[ ] Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR
    240.14a-12)

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange
    Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange
    Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
ITEM 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On January 27, 2005, The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (the "Company") issued a
press release announcing its financial results for the fiscal quarter and six
months ended December 31, 2004. The release also includes estimates for its
fiscal 2005 second half and full year net sales and diluted earnings per share.
A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is
incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM  9.01  Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(c) Exhibits.

Exhibit No.      Description
-----------      -----------

   99.1          Press release dated January 27, 2005 of The Estee Lauder
                 Companies Inc.

                                   SIGNATURES

         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

                                                 THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

Date:  January 27, 2005                          By:    /s/Richard W. Kunes
                                                    ----------------------------
                                                           Richard W. Kunes
                                                       Executive Vice President
                                                     and Chief Financial Officer
                                                      (Principal Financial and
                                                         Accounting Officer)
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

                                  EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit No.     Description
-----------     -----------

 99.1           Press release dated January 27, 2005 of The Estee Lauder
                Companies Inc.
Exhibit No. 99.1

THE                                                                         News
ESTEE                                                                   Contact:
LAUDER                                                       Investor Relations:
COMPANIES INC.                                                   Dennis D'Andrea
                                                                  (212) 572-4384

767 Fifth Avenue                                                Media Relations:
New York, NY  10153                                                 Sally Susman
                                                                  (212) 572-4430
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

            ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES SECOND QUARTER NET SALES CLIMB 8%

              DILUTED PER SHARE EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
                              INCREASE 10% TO $.60

New York, NY, January 27, 2005 - The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE: EL)
today reported net sales for its second fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2004
of $1.75 billion, an 8% increase over the $1.62 billion reported in the prior
year. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, net sales rose 5%.

The Company reported net earnings from continuing operations for the quarter
ended December 31, 2004 of $138.3 million, up 10% from $126.3 million last year.
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations for the quarter
rose 10% to $.60 from $.54 reported in the prior year. Net earnings and diluted
earnings per share for the quarter increased 45% and 46%, respectively, compared
with the prior year, including discontinued operations.

William P. Lauder, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are pleased
to report another quarter of solid sales and earnings growth, reflecting the
global appeal of the Company's products despite a mixed retail environment this
holiday season. Sales grew in all major product categories and geographic
regions, aided by a favorable currency environment. We continue to benefit from
our global sourcing and manufacturing initiatives as well as ongoing cost
containment efforts. These enable us to increase our marketing expenditures to
further enhance our brands while meeting our profitability goals. Importantly,
we continue to invest in new brands, new channels and new geographic
distribution to fuel future growth."

Mr. Lauder added, "In view of our results for the first half of fiscal 2005, we
believe we have the programs in place to achieve our full year targets of
approximately 7% constant currency sales growth and earnings per share in the
range of $1.88 to $1.93."

                                  Page 1 of 7
Results by Product Category
---------------------------

Net sales of skin care products for the quarter increased 8% to $617.4 million
on a reported basis and rose 4% in local currencies. The higher sales reflected
recent launches from Estee Lauder of Future Perfect Anti-Wrinkle Radiance Creme
SPF 15 and Nutritious Vita-Mineral Energy Lotion, as well as Clinique's
Superdefense Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 25. Strong sales of The Lifting Face
Serum, The Lifting Intensifier and The Concentrate from La Mer also contributed
to growth.

Makeup sales for the quarter rose a strong 12% to $592.4 million on a reported
basis and increased 10% in local currencies. Solid growth was generated from the
Company's makeup artist brands, M.A.C, Bobbi Brown and Stila. Recent products
like M.A.C's Veluxe Pearl Eye Shadow and Zoom Lash and Bobbi Brown's Creamy
Concealer and Shimmer Brick performed well during the quarter. Strong sales of
Superbalanced Compact Makeup SPF 20, the Colour Surge line of products and
Perfectly Real Makeup from Clinique, as well as Electric Intense LipCreme and
Lash XL Maximum Length Mascara from Estee Lauder contributed to the sales
increase. The makeup category also benefited from the inclusion of the Company's
new American Beauty and Flirt! brands.

Fragrance sales increased 3% to $458.6 million on a reported basis and decreased
1% in local currencies compared to the prior-year quarter. This category was up
against a difficult comparison to the prior-year quarter which grew 16%
reflecting several major launches. Fragrance sales benefited from the recent
launches of True Star from Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY Be Delicious and Lauder Beyond
Paradise Men. The continued soft fragrance business and saturation of industry
launches, particularly in the United States, continues to challenge prior year
launches and some existing fragrances.

Sales of hair care products and services for the quarter rose 14% to $71.6
million on a reported basis and increased 12% in local currencies, due primarily
to higher sales at Aveda and Bumble and bumble. Aveda net sales growth was due
to recent product launches such as Pure Abundance, Air Control Hair Spray and
new professional color products, as well as increased concept salon
distribution. Bumble and bumble sales increased due to the recent launch of its
hair and scalp treatment line and new salon openings.

Operating income increased in makeup, skin care and hair care due to higher
sales. Fragrance operating income was relatively flat and continued to reflect
the soft fragrance business, ongoing development costs for new products and
brands and sustained support spending behind existing products.

Results by Geographic Region
----------------------------

In the Americas, net sales for the quarter increased 9% to $877.7 million. The
increase was due to the success of new and certain existing products, growth
from virtually all brands, particularly M.A.C, higher results in Canada and the
inclusion of sales of BeautyBank products. All major product categories in this
region had sales growth. Operating income in the Americas increased due to the
higher sales. Profitability in this region in the current-year quarter reflects
more normalized levels following a decrease in the prior-year quarter.

                                  Page 2 of 7
In Europe, the Middle East & Africa, net sales increased 7% from the prior-year
period to $628.9 million, and were relatively flat in local currency. This
region was up against a very difficult comparison to the prior-year quarter when
net sales grew 34%. In constant currency, sales were led by the United Kingdom,
offset by lower sales in Italy, Spain and Austria. Operating profitability
decreased reflecting lower results from our travel retail and distributor
businesses, as well as a decline in Italy.

Asia/Pacific net sales grew 7% over the prior-year quarter to $243.7 million. On
a local currency basis, this region's net sales rose 4% with Taiwan, China and
Hong Kong posting the strongest double-digit growth. These increases were
partially offset by lower sales in Japan and Korea. Operating profit in the
region decreased reflecting lower results in Korea as well as China, where we
continue to invest in new brand expansion and business opportunities.

Six-Month Results
-----------------

For the six months ended December 31, 2004, the Company reported net sales of
$3.25 billion, a 10% increase from $2.97 billion in the comparable prior-year
period. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, net sales rose 7%.
The Company reported net earnings from continuing operations of $233.3 million
for the six months, up 14% from $204.0 million in the same period last year.
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations for the six months
ended December 31, 2004 were $1.01, a 15% increase from $.88 reported in the
prior-year period. Net earnings and diluted earnings per share for the six
months increased 35% and 36%, respectively, compared with the prior year,
including discontinued operations.

Cash Flows
----------

For the six months ended December 31, 2004, the Company generated $298.4 million
in cash flow from operating activities compared with $382.2 million in the
prior-year period. The change primarily resulted from higher net earnings from
continuing operations offset by increases in certain working capital components,
including significant deferred compensation and supplemental pension payments.
Operating cash flow was utilized primarily for capital investments, the
repurchase of shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock and dividend
payments.

Estimate of Fiscal 2005 Second Half and Full Year
-------------------------------------------------

Net sales for the second half of fiscal 2005 are expected to grow approximately
9% in dollars, including a currency translation benefit of approximately two
percentage points, versus fiscal 2004's second half. Geographic region net sales
growth in constant currency is expected to be led by the Americas and Europe,
the Middle East & Africa, followed by Asia/Pacific. On a product category basis,
in constant currency, hair care and fragrance are expected to be the leading
growth categories, followed by skin care and makeup. The Company expects to
achieve diluted earnings per share of between $.87 and $.92 for the second half.

For the Company's fiscal 2005 full-year results, reported net sales are expected
to grow between 9% and 10% in dollars, which reflects a benefit of approximately
two to three percentage points of foreign currency translation impact, versus
fiscal 2004. At the same time the Company continues to expect to achieve diluted
earnings per share of between $1.88 and $1.93 for the fiscal 2005 year.

                                  Page 3 of 7
Geographic region net sales growth in constant currency is expected to be led by
the Americas and Europe, the Middle East & Africa, followed by Asia/Pacific. On
a product category basis, in constant currency, hair care and makeup are
expected to be the leading sales growth categories, followed by skin care and
fragrance.

Forward-looking Statements
--------------------------

The forward-looking statements in this press release, including those containing
words like "believe" and "expect," those in Mr. Lauder's remarks and those in
the "Estimate of Fiscal 2005 Second Half and Full Year" section involve risks
and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
from those forward-looking statements include the following:
     (1)  increased competitive activity from companies in the skin care,
          makeup, fragrance and hair care businesses, some of which have greater
          resources than the Company does;
     (2)  the Company's ability to develop, produce and market new products on
          which future operating results may depend;
     (3)  consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies and reorganizations in
          the retail industry causing a decrease in the number of stores that
          sell the Company's products, an increase in the ownership
          concentration within the retail industry, ownership of retailers by
          the Company's competitors and ownership of competitors by the
          Company's customers that are retailers;
     (4)  shifts in the preferences of consumers as to where and how they shop
          for the types of products and services the Company sells;
     (5)  social, political and economic risks to the Company's foreign or
          domestic manufacturing, distribution and retail operations, including
          changes in foreign investment and trade policies and regulations of
          the host countries and of the United States;
     (6)  changes in the laws, regulations and policies that affect, or will
          affect, the Company's business, including changes in accounting
          standards, tax laws and regulations, trade rules and customs
          regulations, and the outcome and expense of legal or regulatory
          proceedings, and any action the Company may take as a result;
     (7)  foreign currency fluctuations affecting the Company's results of
          operations and the value of its foreign assets, the relative prices at
          which the Company and its foreign competitors sell products in the
          same markets and the Company's operating and manufacturing costs
          outside of the United States;
     (8)  changes in global or local economic conditions that could affect
          consumer purchasing, the willingness of consumers to travel, the
          financial strength of the Company's customers and suppliers, the cost
          and availability of capital, which the Company may need for new
          equipment, facilities or acquisitions, the cost and availability of
          raw materials and the assumptions underlying the Company's critical
          accounting estimates;
     (9)  shipment delays, depletion of inventory and increased production costs
          resulting from disruptions of operations at any of the facilities
          which, due to consolidations in the Company's manufacturing
          operations, now manufacture nearly all of the Company's supply of a
          particular type of product (i.e., focus factories);
     (10) real estate rates and availability, which may affect the Company's
          ability to increase the number of retail locations at which the
          Company sells its products and the costs associated with the Company's
          other facilities;
     (11) changes in product mix to products which are less profitable;
     (12) the Company's ability to acquire or develop new information and
          distribution technologies, on a timely basis and within the Company's
          cost estimates;
     (13) the Company's ability to capitalize on opportunities for improved
          efficiency, such as globalization, and to integrate acquired
          businesses and realize value therefrom;
     (14) consequences attributable to the events that are currently taking
          place in the Middle East, including further attacks, retaliation and
          the threat of further attacks or retaliation; and
     (15) the impact of repatriating, or planning to repatriate, certain of the
          Company's foreign earnings to the United States in connection with The
          American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.

                                  Page 4 of 7
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world's leading manufacturers and
marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. The
Company's products are sold in over 130 countries and territories under
well-recognized brand names, including Estee Lauder, Clinique, Aramis,
Prescriptives, Origins, M.A.C, Bobbi Brown, Tommy Hilfiger, La Mer, Donna Karan,
Aveda, Stila, Jo Malone, Bumble and bumble, kate spade beauty, Darphin, Michael
Kors, Rodan + Fields, American Beauty, Flirt!, Good Skin(TM) and Donald Trump
The Fragrance.

An electronic version of this release can be found at the Company's website,
www.elcompanies.com.
--------------------

                                - Tables Follow -

                                  Page 5 of 7
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
                         SUMMARY OF CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
             (Unaudited; Dollars in millions, except per share data)

                                                               Three Months Ended               Six Months Ended
                                                                   December 31      Percent        December 31      Percent
                                                               ------------------               ----------------
                                                                2004       2003     Change       2004       2003    Change
                                                                ----       ----     ------       ----       ----    ------
Net Sales.................................................     $1,750.3   $1,619.1    8.1%     $3,254.4   $2,965.7    9.7%

Cost of sales.............................................        448.0      412.7                859.3      776.8
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Gross Profit..............................................      1,302.3    1,206.4    7.9%      2,395.1    2,188.9    9.4%
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
       Gross Margin.......................................         74.4%      74.5%                73.6%      73.8%

Operating expenses:
   Selling, general and administrative....................      1,071.8      980.3              2,009.3    1,828.8
   Related party royalties................................         -           7.1                 -          11.4
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
                                                                1,071.8      987.4    8.5%      2,009.3    1,840.2    9.2%
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
       Operating Expense Margin...........................         61.2%      61.0%                61.7%      62.0%

Operating Income .........................................        230.5      219.0    5.3%        385.8      348.7   10.6%
       Operating Income Margin............................         13.2%      13.5%                11.9%      11.8%

Interest expense, net.....................................          3.3        7.2                  7.4       14.9
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Earnings before Income Taxes, Minority Interest
   and Discontinued Operations............................        227.2      211.8    7.3%        378.4      333.8   13.4%

Provision for income taxes................................         85.5       80.7                141.5      124.8
Minority interest, net of tax.............................         (3.4)      (4.8)                (3.6)      (5.0)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Net Earnings from Continuing Operations...................        138.3      126.3    9.5%        233.3      204.0   14.4%

Discontinued operations, net of  tax (A)..................         -         (30.6)                -         (31.3)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
Net Earnings..............................................     $  138.3   $   95.7   44.5%     $  233.3   $  172.7   35.1%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Basic net earnings per common share:
   Net earnings from continuing operations................     $    .61   $    .55   11.1%     $   1.03   $    .89   15.3%
   Discontinued operations, net of tax....................         -          (.13)                 -         (.13)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
   Net earnings ..........................................     $    .61   $    .42   46.7%     $   1.03   $    .76   36.2%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Diluted net earnings per common share:
   Net earnings from continuing operations................     $    .60   $    .54   10.4%     $   1.01   $    .88   14.7%
   Discontinued operations, net of tax....................          -         (.13)                  -        (.13)
                                                               --------   --------             --------   --------
   Net earnings ..........................................     $    .60   $    .41   46.0%     $   1.01   $    .75   35.6%
                                                               ========   ========             ========   ========

Weighted average common shares outstanding:
   Basic..................................................        225.6      228.6                226.4      228.3
   Diluted................................................        229.2      231.6                230.2      231.1
(A) In February 2004, the Company sold the assets and operations of its
reporting unit that sold jane brand products. Prior to the sale of the business,
in December 2003, the Company committed to a plan to sell such assets and
operations. At the time such decisions were made, circumstances warranted that
the Company conduct an assessment of the tangible and intangible assets of this
business. Based on this assessment, the Company determined that the carrying
amount of these assets as reflected on the Company's consolidated balance sheets
exceeded their estimated fair value. Accordingly, the Company recorded an
after-tax charge to discontinued operations of $30.6 and $31.3 million for the
three months and six months ended December 31, 2003, respectively. The charge
represents the impairment of goodwill in the amount of $26.4 million, the
reduction in value of other tangible assets held for sale of $1.2 million, net
of tax, and the operating loss of $3.0 million and $3.7 million, net of tax, for
the three months and six months ended December 31, 2003, respectively. Included
in the operating loss of both prior-year periods were additional costs
associated with the sale and discontinuation of the business.

                                  Page 6 of 7
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

                                                 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                                                       (Unaudited; In millions)

                                                                         December 31         June 30       December 31
                                                                            2004              2004            2003
                                                                            ----              ----            ----
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents..............................................   $   577.9        $   611.6        $   869.9
Accounts receivable, net...............................................       844.4            664.9            767.8
Inventory and promotional merchandise, net.............................       699.1            653.5            574.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets..............................       283.1            269.2            246.7
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Current Assets..............................................     2,404.5          2,199.2          2,458.7
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------

Property, Plant and Equipment, net.....................................       683.1            647.0            621.7
Other Assets  .........................................................       867.2            861.9            889.8
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Assets......................................................   $ 3,954.8        $ 3,708.1        $ 3,970.2
                                                                          =========        =========        =========

                                                 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Short-term debt........................................................   $    80.4        $    73.8        $     4.9
Accounts payable.......................................................       293.6            267.3            232.9
Other current liabilities..............................................     1,091.6            980.9          1,077.2
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Current Liabilities.........................................     1,465.6          1,322.0          1,315.0
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
Noncurrent Liabilities
Long-term debt.........................................................       472.8            461.5            828.4
Other noncurrent liabilities and minority interest.....................       215.1            191.1            238.6
Total Stockholders' Equity.............................................     1,801.3          1,733.5          1,588.2
                                                                          ---------        ---------        ---------
     Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity........................   $ 3,954.8        $ 3,708.1        $ 3,970.2
                                                                          =========        =========        =========
SELECTED CASH FLOW DATA
                                                       (Unaudited; In millions)
                                                                                                  Six Months Ended
                                                                                                     December 31
                                                                                                  ----------------
                                                                                                  2004         2003
                                                                                                  ----         ----
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
   Net earnings.........................................................................        $ 233.3     $  172.7
   Depreciation and amortization........................................................           94.5         91.8
   Deferred income taxes................................................................           22.1         (0.3)
   Discontinued operations..............................................................            -           31.3
   Other items..........................................................................            2.8          8.5
   Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
       Increase in accounts receivable, net.............................................         (128.6)      (103.5)
       Decrease (increase) in inventory and promotional merchandise, net................          (15.1)        38.8
       Increase in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities.......................           91.0        138.3
       Other operating assets and liabilities, net......................................           (1.6)         4.6
                                                                                                -------     --------
         Net cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations.....        $ 298.4     $  382.2
                                                                                                =======     ========

   Capital expenditures.................................................................          103.8         87.7
   Payments to acquire treasury stock...................................................          187.7         19.6
   Dividends paid.......................................................................           90.1          -
# # #

                                                 Page 7 of 7