For Monique De Santis, hair isn’t just hair - it’s the ultimate accessory, your shortcut to looking put together in two minutes flat. Frustrated with everyday products that didn’t cut it outside the salon, she created Lennon Hair: simple, multi-use essentials that make effortless, confidence-boosting style a reality. Inspired by her signature slick-back bun, Monique built a brand that’s all about iconic hair, zero fuss, and a little playful flair.
We caught up with Monique to get the inside scoop on her hair rituals, dos and don’ts, and the tiny spark that kicked off the Mane Event - a full-blown hair care revolution with serious style cred.
Monique and the Lennon team have generously given us a discount code for our customers to discover their own Mane Event with 15% off store wide using code 7TH&YORK.
How did Lennon Hair begin? Was there a defining moment that inspired you to start the brand?
I’ve always been into hair styling and care, not that I’d call myself an expert, but for me, having my hair done made me feel put together. Even without makeup, styled hair was my saving grace. I’ve always believed in the motto: your hair is your best accessory. It can completely make or break a look.
For me, a slick back bun was the ultimate hack. Quick, easy, and instantly polished. The only problem was that I could never find the right product to nail it. I tried so many, but always ended up stealing my partner’s pomade, it was the only formula that actually worked. That’s when the idea struck: why weren’t there more simple, multi use styling products designed for everyday people, not just professionals?
That thought became Lennon: laid back, no fuss hair essentials that work, minus the salon jargon.
Has building the brand changed the way you think about beauty, style, or self-care?
Definitely. It’s taught me to scale back, stick to what I love, and tune out trends. I’ve never been someone who uses a lot of products, even with skincare, I like to keep things simple, but I’ve definitely fallen victim to chasing whatever’s “in.” Building Lennon reinforced my belief that beauty doesn’t need to be overcomplicated. The right product should do the work for you.
For me, it’s about feeling put together in the easiest way possible, like a slick bun that takes two minutes but can change your whole mood.
How would you describe the Lennon Hair aesthetic or philosophy?
Lennon is about more than just a hairstyle, it’s about confidence, energy, and those little rituals that make you feel your best. Our goal is to help people feel put together, whether they have two minutes or two hours to get ready. We want to streamline routines, not overhaul them. And the nourishing ingredients and benefits built into each product are just a bonus.
Aesthetically, think iconic hair with an effortless twist. She’s strutting from a WIP to a wine bar with a matcha in one hand and a laptop in the other, perfectly polished but never like she tried too hard.
Are there any tools you think everyone should own?
Less is always more. I couldn’t live without the Hair Pomade, Hair Brush, and Mini Claw Clip. Not to play favourites, but give me those three products and I’m guaranteed a good hair day every time. Plus, your hair feels good thanks to the nourishing ingredients, and the claw clip has zero pull. Perfection.
