March 7, 2019 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating Women of Influence and Style

Today is International Women’s Day, and we had to take a moment to celebrate. We love few things more than celebrating boss babes who are making impacts worldwide. And if you’re one of those ladies, feel free to meet up with the gals for a round of cocktails and mapping your boss moves this evening!

#BalanceforBetter is this year’s International Women’s Day theme….love it. A theme like that is the perfect opportunity to showcase women throughout history who balance individual achievement with effortless style. They make it look easy.

Image Source: instagram.com

Princess Diana

From her larger-than-life wedding (and gown) to her sleek dresses and suits, England’s Rose brought a level of style and grace we had never seen in Buckingham Palace. Diana was an icon of style and pop culture who managed to transcend the conservative – often stuffy – trappings of the Royal Family. One of the reasons for that is because Diana chose to use her platform as a vehicle for philanthropy rather than just enjoying a glamorous lifestyle. Meghan Markle and Kate Middelton have picked up the mantle Diana vacated after her untimely death, but no one can match her timeless elegance.

Image Source: instagram.com

Ashley Graham

Body positivity has not only been a hot button issue in the fashion and modeling industry, but society at large. And model turned activist and host, Ashley Graham has been at the forefront of the body positivity movement for roughly a decade. Ashley was featured in the October 2009 issue of Glamour magazine titled “These Bodies are Beautiful.” Since then, Ashley became one of the first plus-size models featured in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, penned her own book, and led a TED Talk. Ashley definitely embodies body positive and beautiful. And we love the balance.

Image Source: instagram.com

Jackie Kennedy

Jackie Kennedy was to the White House what Princess Diana was to Buckingham Palace. We think it’s fair to say Jackie may have been the United States’ first celebrity First Lady. She carved a space of influence for herself outside of her marriage to John F. Kennedy. And her star only twinkled brighter when she became Jackie O. as she became a fashion and publishing icon. Known for her menswear-inspired suits and oversized glasses, Jackie proved that women could be career-driven while also being stylish.

Image Source: instagram.com

Diana Ross

There are few people on earth who embody timeless beauty and transcendent talent like Diana Ross. At 74 years old, the pop and R&B icon is as stylish and stunning as women half her age. Whether she was in gold sequined cocktail dresses with The Supremes or hot pink jumpsuits as a solo artist, the Motown legend influenced fashion as much as she imprinted the music industry. It’s 2019, and Diana is still our “Baby Love.”

Image Source: instagram.com

Lilly Singh

If it feels like you’re seeing Lilly Singh everywhere these days, it’s probably because she is everywhere. Lilly got her start as a YouTuber nearly 10 years ago. She named her account “IISuperwomanII” because she believes she can do anything. Lilly has proven that to be true since she’s expanded her brand and added modeling and motivational speaking to her repertoire. Though you’d never guess it, Lilly says she initially started YouTube channel to help her cope with depression. In addition to being a humorist (with a funky style), Lilly uses her platform to empower women who struggle with self-confidence and mental health.

Have a fantastic International Women’s Day!

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February 12, 2019 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

How to Celebrate Your Besties on Galentine’s Day

What’s Galentine’s Day you ask? Only the best holiday created by a fictional character. Yes, even better than Festivus.

Leslie Knope, the main character of NBC’s hit sitcom Parks and Recreation, coined the term Galentine’s Day. As Leslie put it, Galentine’s Day would be a day for ladies to celebrate ladies – without worrying about gifts from the guys. The idea made SO much sense that, of course, it’s now a real holiday!

So, how should you celebrate your lady friends on February 13th? Consider these fun activities to show your besties how much you love and appreciate them.

Customize a Gift Basket

We appreciate everything that guys do for us, but when you get down to it, women know what women really want. So, why not craft a Galentine’s Gift Basket for your closest friends?

Fill it with things that you know they really need and will appreciate – moisturizer of their favorite scent or some guilty-pleasure treats (that they never get for themselves).

Consider gift cards for your favorite place to get lunch together, or for clothes that they’re actually going to wear instead of cliché of Valentine’s lingerie. We do love the collection of comfy tees and leggings in our apparel store.

Host a Spa Experience

Spa days are the ultimate treat, but they can run a little pricey. Save the expensive day trip for the S.O. to purchase while you and your friends celebrate with a little DIY action.

Consider any of the following items to primp and pamper together:

Herbal teas
Cucumber and Lemon infused water
Hair masques – like Double Action Hydrating Serum and Heavenly Hydrating Masque
Hand scrubs and exfoliants
Scented candles
REALLY good towels (the thicker the better!)
Skin moisturizers – you can’t go wrong with our REJUVENIQE^® Oil Intensive

See if your friends can split the responsibilities (one makes the drinks, another instructs on exfoliation, etc). Then, set up a couple rooms ahead of time to better relax and enjoy your time together.

Galentine’s Day on a weekday? No worries!Take a rain check and make your plans to hang out Friday or Saturday night.

Meet Up for a Ladies’s Night (or Morning!)

Honestly, sometimes sharing a few drinks with your best friends is the best way to unwind after a busy day. Agree that you’ll all cut out of off work a little early for Galentine’s Day, and take advantage of your favorite Happy Hour.

Just be sure to have a DD or plan to hire an Uber together. Though, if you inform your partner ahead of time, and if he is REALLY looking to be your Valentine’s, he may even offer to pick you up.

If you’re not a night owl, then an early morning get-together would be a perfect start to your Galentine’s Day. Take a little extra time in the morning to meet for a leisurely brunch where you can chat exchange gifts.

While you’re with the girls, use this opportunity to share your excitement for our new Refer a Friend program. Here’s how it works: share your unique referral link (available to you in your VIP suite) to invite your friends to join MONAT, you’ll receive a $20 referral credit for each new VIP who signs up! Best of all, the new VIP will also enjoy a $20 credit that can be applied to their first qualifying Flexship!

We hope this blog post inspires you to make time for your girls. After all, it’s your day together – celebrate it in a way that celebrates what you mean to each other!

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February 4, 2019 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

5 Ways to Have an Unforgettable Valentine’s on a Budget

At its heart, Valentine’s Day is a moment to cherish and celebrate a romantic partner and your relationship together. While this should be one of the happiest days of the year, all too often stress and anxiety about having “the perfect day” can ruin the moment.

First things first, realize that you do not need to spend a large amount of money to give your partner the perfect Valentine’s Day experience. Your partner will always love and cherish a moment that you put real thought and care into over a fancy dinner and expensive gift done just to fulfill an expectation.

So, if you really want to have a day to remember without breaking the bank, consider any of these five options.

Plan a Thoughtful Night In

Valentine’s Day lands on a weekday this year, so chances are getting out may be more trouble than it’s worth. Simply getting a few hours to relax with each other can be the best date of all– especially if you go the extra mile.

Volunteer to make your partner’s favorite dinner. Or, even better, work together to make a memorable meal.
Be sure to be a little extra with how you prepare the dinner – dress up a bit, light some candles, open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving.
Clean and decorate a little ahead of time, to help clear your minds and put you in a better mood.
Make a playlist of your favorite songs, both for the dinner and for the time you’re relaxing together after.

Create a DIY Gift Basket

Gifts are an essential part of a celebration. They help to mark the occasion and can serve as a special surprise for your loved one. That doesn’t mean you need to go “all out” on the one perfect gift – a selection of thoughtful items will have the same impact.

Chocolates are the expected sweet gift for Valentine’s, but don’t be afraid to break the mold if your partner prefers other treats. Nuts, fruits, or hard candies can be just as delicious.
Take those treats and arrange them in a Valentine’s Day-themed mug or red and white dish. The extra effort helps show your appreciation.
If you really would like to craft something unique for your partner, consider taking inspiration from any of these DIY gifts. We especially like the #10 book safe, the #24 map themed coasters and the #75 flavored salts.
There is nothing that says “I love you” more than taking your time to put your own words down on paper. A sincere letter about your true feelings will be something your partner will cherish for years.

Enjoy a Casual Date Night

Have a little more freedom on hand and want to spend a night out? You still don’t have to book weeks ahead for prix fixe menus and formal theatres. A casual date night not only will be easier to plan ahead, it’ll be easier on the bank account as well.

Not all romances are tragic, a night of laughs can be a great time. Look for local comedy shows, stand-ups, or improv troupes that you and your partner can enjoy.
Not afraid to laugh at each other? Try finding a bar or arcade that offers karaoke. This could also be an amazing double date opportunity.
Dinner and a movie may sound cliché, but as always, it’s the thought that counts. If nothing great is playing at the local cinema, consider taking in a college theatre production or other small venue show.
If you and your partner enjoy alcoholic drinks, take a tour of a brewery or distillery. Local crafting is huge right now, and chances are you have a nearby location where you can enjoy a tasting menus for a wide variety of flavors.

Spend a night “out”

Going out doesn’t mean you have to settle for one location. If you enjoy good weather in February then walking around and exploring your hometown or nearby city can make for a very memorable night.

Up for an urban adventure? Visit local landmarks, museums, and art galleries. They tend to not be as crowded as other entertainment options and less expensive.
Or, if you prefer the lure of the great outdoors, you could enjoy a hike, a beach picnic, or a snowshoeing adventure – depending on your local climate, of course.
A picnic lunch (for the day) or wine and desserts (for the evening) can be a great time together either in a local park or just in your backyard.
If the weather is really on your side, consider watching the sunset and then some comfortable stargazing from a nearby location. If the weather isn’t great, you could always go with the “night in” plan.

Share the Love

Love is greatest when it’s shared, so don’t feel like your Valentine’s Day has to be spent with just your partner. Special nights with friends and family can be even more enriching when you embrace the other relationships in your lives.

Can’t find a babysitter for the kids? Plan a family game night with desserts and hot chocolate. It’ll be a great opportunity to pull them away from their mobile devices.
If you have family members who are alone on Valentine’s, consider making plans to invite them over – especially if they’ve just lost their own partner. Just that one night could mean the world to them.
A day of service could also make the difference for someone’s life. Volunteering for your church, shelter, food bank, or local charity may not be the traditional idea of a Valentine’s date, but it might end up being the one you’ll remember for a lifetime.

No matter what you decide to do for your partner on Valentine’s Day, just remember that the thought, care and presentation will put into it will give you both with more than any amount you can spend.

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March 27, 2018 by MONAT in HAIR / SPOTLIGHT

Caring for Curly Hair

Curly hair is fun when it’s wild and slightly crazy…or take the sexy route when they’re in a slinky, spiral shape.

Image Source: pinterest.com

But since curls can undoubtedly be hard to manage, here are a few tips.

Use a wide-tooth comb, not a brush, to detangle

Curly hair is the most fragile type of hair there is, with each curl being a possible breaking point. A wide-tooth comb is the gentlest way to get through your curls and also doesn’t break up your curl pattern like a brush would.

Comb your hair from the bottom up

If you start at the bottom of your hair, combing up lets you detangle each knot. The last thing you want to do is yank your way through your curly mane.

Get a regular trim to avoid split ends

For a bouncy, fresh head of curls, book an appointment with your hairstylist every six to eight weeks to trim off split ends and preventing splits from going further upward.

Use a Cream for Curls

As any curly-haired girl will tell you, a styling cream is an essential part of their hair arsenal. Styling cream for curly hair will reduce frizz while bringing out natural curves. How to use? Immediately post-shower, simply rake a dollop of styling cream like Curl Cream through all your strands and then either gently blow dry with a diffuser to get a really full head of curls or air dry to get a tamer look. Curl Cream has the innovative WAVEMAX™ in it for longer-lasting, naturally defined curls. WAVEMAX is a 100% natural, new green cosmetic active that enhances and maintains the natural-look of curls. Containing a rich combination of polysaccharides extracted from Chia Seed and Linseed that shields the hair shaft, it forms and shapes defined curls, with the additional benefits of anti-frizz, protection from humidity and heat stress.

Here’s another a tip: If your curls are very coarse, apply product to wet hair. If your hair is fine, apply product to damp hair.

Once your curls are dry, you can shake or fluff your ringlets to your heart’s content to get just the look you want.

Want more tips for curly hair? Watch MONAT’s Beauty Insider!

February 20, 2018 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT / WELLNESS

The Health and Beauty Benefits of Water

How many times have you heard that you should drink 8 glasses of water a day? It’s common knowledge but do we really know why we need to drink that much water? Listen up!

Your body is mostly water and comprises about 60 percent of your body weight. According to the Mayo Clinic, water:

Eliminates wastes through urination, perspiration and bowel movements
Keeps your temperature normal
Lubricates and cushions joints
Protects sensitive tissues¹

But did you also know all the wonderful things water can do for your looks? Enough H₂O does more than keep you hydrated. It helps your body flush out toxins more efficiently. The result? Fresher and more radiant-looking skin! Water helps your skin keep its natural elasticity and suppleness.

What do the experts say? According to Howard Murad, author of The Water Secret: The Cellular Breakthrough to Look and Feel 10 Years Younger, not drinking water makes your skin look more dry and wrinkled, which can be improved with proper hydration.

Dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian, of the New York City-based Schweiger Dermatology Group, has said, “I’ve found that water makes a big difference in skin health. Without adequate water intake, skin appears duller, and wrinkles and pores more prominent.”²

Now it’s easier to become more motivated to try and drink 62 ounces of water a day, right?

For those of you who don’t have the patience to track your water intake (or who don’t enjoy guzzling water around the clock), you literally can “eat” your water to supplement your intake. That’s because many fruits and vegetables are almost 100 percent water!

Below are some fruits and vegetables that taste wonderful and hydrate you. Incorporate these into your daily diet and you will meet your water quota, helping your body work better and making yourself look better!

STRAWBERRIES

CUCUMBER

CELERY

CANTALOUPE

GRAPEFRUIT

SPINACH

TOMATO

WATERMELON

¹ Healthy Lifestyle: Nutrition and healthy eating. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256?pg=2
² Fetters, K. Does Drinking Water Really Give You Glowing Skin? Women’s Health Magazine. February 26, 2015. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/drinking-water-for-better-skin
³ Micco, N., M.S. 7 Refreshing Foods to Help You Stay Hydrated. Eating Well. http://www.eatingwell.com/article/17576/7-refreshing-foods-to-help-you-stay-hydrated/

February 13, 2018 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

It’s Valentine’s Day. Whatever Can You Do That’s Different?

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and that age old question pops up: What can I do with my boyfriend/husband/significant other that’s not same old, same old?

Here are a few ideas for Valentine’s Day that go outside the usual flowers, chocolate and lavish dinner out.

Go Dancing. Real dancing. Take a class, hit a salsa club (for quickie lessons, try this link or simply go see live music where you just have to dance!

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Try Karaoke. As hokey as it may seem, karaoke is really a ton of fun. What better way to celebrate your chemistry than singing classic couples duets such as “’03 Bonnie & Clyde” and “I Got You Babe” together?

Hit a Comedy Club. Laughter is at the heart of intimacy, after all. Laugh the night away with a Valentine’s Day themed show at a local comedy club. A stomach aching from laughter is the best feeling when it’s shared.

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Get a Couple’s Massage. Not only is this relaxing and totally indulgent, it will put and your boo in the mood for love! Tons of spas make hay out of this romantic holiday with couples specials so take advantage of reduced prices.

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Make Your Man Breakfast In Bed. You can’t go wrong with this one, especially when you blow caution to the winds and make chocolate chip pancakes!

Go Tapas Hopping. Instead of sticking to just one spot, hop around to different places, grab seats at the bar, and order different kinds of wine and tapas at each place. It’s soooo much more fun than a regular sit-down dinner.

Get Out of Town. From a bed-and-breakfast to a 5-Star, you can’t go wrong with a special night away. In fact, many places hold Valentine’s specials so scour around for the trip that looks most fun!

While there really are a ton of different things you can do, it’s important to realize that it’s not what you do but rather, how you treat your special love while you’re on this Valentine’s Day date. Romance happens anywhere as long as you pay attention to your partner, remember what they like and let them know your heart goes pitty-pat when you see them. In the end, anything can be romantic, even hot dogs and a baseball game, when you’re with the one you love. The key to long-lasting romance is not the bouquet of roses but the spark of knowing there’s always more to learn about each other.

February 1, 2018 by MONAT in HAIR / SPOTLIGHT

Have You Gotten Your New 2018 Hairstyle Yet?

The year is a month old, winter is at its worst and the doldrums have set in. Need a pick-up? Nothing can change your mood faster than a new do. If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to get on trend for 2018. We’ve picked out some of the most popular styles and haircuts for this year. Whether you want to announce to the room “I’m here!” or go subtle, there’s an option for you.

Image Source: Getty Images

Curtain Bangs Are BIG BIG BIG!

Curtain bangs, called that name because they part like curtains, are on the top of the radar. Not sure? The style is up 600 percent in search on Pinterest! What’s so great is that this this versatile fringe style is an easy way to make your current look…well, look new! Parted down the center and with longer hair than regular bangs, it’s a synch to avoid the awkward bangs grow-out stage when you want to move on.

When you’re styling curtain bangs, use a small round brush and a finishing spray to keep them in place, like Refinish Control Spray.

Image Source: Getty Images

The Grown Out Pixie Has Grown Up!

This is a longer version of a classic pixie. Besides being oh so fab on its own, this style is wonderful for transitioning from super short hair into something longer. It has a lot of texture to it so whip out some BLACK Groom Styling Clay to get those piecey pieces just right!

Image Source: Getty Images

Playful Fringe Is So Much Fun!

Combining long, eye-grazing fringe with a sleek bob is totally on point for 2018. The best thing about this haircut is that it can easily be tailored to your personal style and features. To ensure the fringe has just the right volume, blow that hair forward when you step out of the shower to prevent any cowlicks in the front. When blowing your whole head dry, use a round brush and direct the hair forward, toward the face. Top it up with some dry shampoo like THE CHAMP Conditioning Dry Shampoo to give it a little oomph!

Image Source: Getty Images

The Lob Has Transformed Into the Long, Layered Lob

Everyone loves a lob, regardless of how it’s cut. But the long, layered lob has stolen our hearts this season. It falls to just below the shoulders and has varied lengths of layers to create lightness and texture. If you want, keep your bangs longer and angle them to soften the face. After using a curling iron to get very loose curls, scrunch your hair up a bit using Tousled Texturizing Mist to give the layers a softer wave.

Image Source: Getty Images

Expanded Curls Are the Rage!

This cut is for the bold of heart! It’s so popular you’ll be seeing it on the runway and in the supermarket! While the cut is key, the style calls for using the diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to bring out the natural curl and help them literally stand out! Apply a bit of REJUVENIQE^® Intensive Oil throughout your hair to enhance the curls and given your hair a bit of a luminosity.

Image Source: Getty Images

The Grown Out Shag Is Having Its Day!

While the shag came back last year, it’s now all grown up! This new, longer style has long, shaggy layers with longish bangs that have a center part. The beauty of this style is that the layers blend together so as your hair grows longer, it looks intentional, not like you overslept your salon appointment! Once you’ve curled your hair in once-inch strands, use Restyle Instant Sculpting Taffy to muss it up a little for a lived-in look.

August 28, 2017 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

Sorry, I Can’t Hear You Over the Volume of My Hair!

Thick, luscious, healthy-looking hair never goes out of style. Besides being one of the most evident signs of youth, many women admit that having voluminous hair makes them feel sexier and more feminine. However, as we get older, our hair ages too and some women start noticing their hair is getting thinner, scarcer or more brittle. This is generally a totally natural process but it might also be due to external causes, such as stress, unbalanced nutrition and overdoing chemical or hot styling methods.

August 28, 2017 by MONAT in SPOTLIGHT

Don’t Blow It! Use MONAT’s Blow Out Cream for the Perfect Look

Have you been making one too many beelines to the local blow-dry bar? It’s no secret that it can take a toll on your wallet, not to mention the hours of your life you’ll never get back.

But we get it, there’s nothing quite like that movie star moment when you step out of the door with a Cindy Crawford-esque coif.