Chantal Monaghan is an Australian model. She has worked for L’Oreal, Ralph Lauren, Jo Mercer, Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Vogue Netherlands, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Maybelline. She has walked in Paris haute couture and in New York, London, and Milan ready-to-wear shows for Armani, Emporio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Zuhair Murad, and Chanel.
Monaghan was born in Sydney and raised in Brisbane, Australia, by an Australian mother. Her father was a Nigerian. Monaghan moved to New York in 2014. She attended high school at St. Rita College. She studied at TAFE Queensland Mount Gravatt.
Monaghan started her career as a child model at the age of 8. After modeling as a child for children’s brands such as Little Workers and Yaz, Chantal knew she wanted to be a model. She was scouted in a coffee shop when she was 14 and was signed to an agency in New Zealand. After a short stint living there, she returned to Australia and signed on with Vivien’s model management. Also at the age of 14, she auditioned for girlfriend model search and was a runner up.
Since then she’s walked in Australian Fashion Week Sydney for numerous designers including Camilla, as well as for various designers at New Zealand Fashion Week and other fashion shows. Chantal has shot editorial for Girlfriend Magazine and Q Weekend Magazine, to name a couple. She has also done a lot of catalogue work, has fronted a campaign for Wanted Shows and appeared in a TV commercial for the Gold Coast Theme Parks.
In 2013, Monaghan appeared in Naomi Campbell’s TV show, “The Face.” She was one of the finalists in the show and was mentored by Naomi Campbell. After the show, at age 17, she signed with Chic Model Management Australia and Women Management in New York.
When she moved overseas her first job was with jean Paul Gaultier in Paris in 2014. In 2017, she was hired by Tom Ford to do their Soule Blanc Body Mist Fragrance Campaign. Monaghan then landed at a job with Ralph Lauren and in 2018 was hired to shoot Ralph Lauren’s holiday campaign. After the holiday campaign was shot, the team at Ralph Lauren asked her to shoot the 2019’s fall/winter campaign as well. She walked in her 11th Jean-Paul Gaultier show at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week in 2018. For seven consecutive years, she appeared at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week, and in 2018, she served as the finale leader for Jean Paul Gaultier.
She has also shot two consecutive campaigns for Jo Mercer, an Australian Shoe label, alongside Samantha Harris. As of 2020, Monaghan has featured in the 2020 Maybelline campaign alongside Christy Turlington and Emily Didonato, which was shot by Alexi Lubomirski. She is the second Australian model to do a Maybelline campaign. She has also worked for Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Christian Dior, Gucci, Elle Magazine, Vogue Netherlands, Russh, Harper’s Bazaar, and Givenchy. She has done catalog or e-commerce work for Victoria’s Secret.
She has been on the cover of magazines Luxure, Harper’s Bazaar, L’OFFICIEL and also featured in Elle Magazine.
She did a portrait and personal shoot during the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival at the restaurant Ecrin plage on May 21, 2024 in Cannes, France. She supports a number of charities including Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Presently she is signed with Ford Models, Inc. New York.
Women Fitness President Ms. Namita Nayyar catches up with Chantal Monaghan an exceptionally talented Australian model here she talks about her fitness routine, her diet, and her success story.
Namita Nayyar:
Chantal, your physique is always on point! Could you walk us through your fitness routine? How do you stay in such incredible shape throughout the year?
Chantal Monaghan:
I take my fitness routine very seriously I love doing Barry‘s Boot Camp. I love Pilates. I eat very healthy meals regularly but I do love a sweet treat a few times a week.
Namita Nayyar:
Do you have any favorite forms of exercise that you swear by for toning and maintaining energy?
Chantal Monaghan:
I swear by a cardio I love cardio running I think is the best form of exercise.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you balance your fitness routine with the demands of your career, especially when traveling or during long shoots?
Chantal Monaghan:
If you plan accordingly I can usually fit in my fitness routine. I would exercise the day or two before a shoot or when travelling. Then the day of my shoot or travel would be a rest day from exercise which is important so you don’t overdo it.
Full Interview is Continued on Next Page
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar President of womenfitness.net and should not be reproduced, copied, or hosted in part or full anywhere without express permission.
All Written Content Copyright © 2025 Women Fitness
Namita Nayyar:
How do you stay motivated to maintain your fitness regimen, even on days when you’re feeling tired or busy?
Chantal Monaghan:
For my career I must ensure I am always fit and healthy to give the best I can to any jobs, either big or small. This motivates me to maintain a good fitness regime. I just include my exercise routine around jobs as best as I can and have noticed it keeps my energy levels up so I do not feel as tired. It also helps keep me healthy which is also important on a personal level.
Namita Nayyar:
Do you follow any specific type of training—strength, cardio, yoga, or something else? How do you mix it up to avoid burnout?
Chantal Monaghan:
I usually mix my running with Pilates. I love reformer Pilates. I think it’s great for toning and I think it’s relaxing as well because you don’t wanna run too much and hurt yourself.
Namita Nayyar:
When it comes to your diet, what does a typical day of meals look like for you? Do you follow any particular eating plan or focus on balance?
Chantal Monaghan:
I focus on balance eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy throughout the day. Breakfast includes yoghurt with berries and a coffee. Lunch could be a salad with chicken and dinner grilled salmon with steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, and snow peas). I also drink freshly squeezed juice through the day and water. Snacks in between include a piece of fruit, tub of yoghurt or bowl. I do splash out occasionally and have a burger and fries which is fine in moderation. And my favorite chocolate cake.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you ensure you stay energized during long shoots and travel while still keeping your meals healthy and fulfilling?
Chantal Monaghan:
During a shoot most clients are fabulous at providing healthy snacks and meals. I also bring along a few healthy snacks of my own. Plane food has improved a lot over the years and provides options. I’ll try to have a salad, chicken or fish while travelling if it’s on offer. I’ll also do a few stretching exercises before travelling or a long shoot as this helps to keep flexible and energized.
Namita Nayyar:
As someone who’s always in the spotlight, do you have any specific diet tips for glowing skin and maintaining great health?
Chantal Monaghan:
Always keep well hydrated and keep to your daily beauty routine. Even if tired I ensure I take off all make up before going to bed. I know it can be hard sometimes but you’ll feel better sleeping and waking up with fresh, clean skin. Travelling on planes can be drying for your skin so ensure to moisturize along the way and have a water based spray mist to use on your face throughout your journey.
Namita Nayyar:
Do you treat yourself to any indulgent foods, or do you follow a strict regimen? How do you manage balance?
Chantal Monaghan:
I do have the occasional burger and favorite chocolate cake but if you are sensible and only indulge in small amounts. You can have fun with healthy recipes as well.
Namita Nayyar:
How important is hydration in your routine, and do you have any tips for staying hydrated throughout the day?
Chantal Monaghan:
Hydration is very important for your health and glowing skin. I drink about 1 -2 liters of water a day. If you have a favorite water bottle and just take many sips throughout the day. I also try to have a glass or two of freshly squeezed juice using a variety of fruits and vegetables. I love a green Juice.
Namita Nayyar:
Your hair always looks so healthy and shiny. Could you share your hair care routine with us? Any secret products or techniques?
Chantal Monaghan:
Since I have curly hair, I do make sure I take care of my hair very well. I use a lot of leave in conditioners and I do treatments once a week for my hair to keep it strong.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you maintain healthy hair, especially when you’re often styling it for photo shoots or runway shows?
Chantal Monaghan:
I regularly get the ends of my hair trimmed. I also give myself conditioning treatments every week so my hair stays healthy and shiny. Constant styling for jobs can take a toll on your hairs condition so I need to be very vigilant in maintaining a healthy hair regime.
Namita Nayyar:
Are there any natural oils or treatments you use to keep your hair nourished and looking its best?
Chantal Monaghan:
Yes I love champo I love to use redkin and also olaplex is great. I love to do leave in conditioners and leave in sprays throughout the day.
Namita Nayyar:
What are some common hair care mistakes that you think people make, and how can they be avoided?
Chantal Monaghan:
Overuse of heated styling aids can be damaging to your hair. I try, wherever possible, to give my hair a rest from any styling aids. They are great to achieve many different styles but with constant use you also need to ensure your hair is well conditioned.
Namita Nayyar:
What’s your advice on maintaining hair health while also keeping up with the demands of modeling and frequent styling?
Chantal Monaghan:
I think my advice would be to have a great diet because that is really good for healthy hair and healthy skin. Lots of water and to take vitamins is really important too because healthy hair starts within the body.
Namita Nayyar:
Your skin always has that perfect glow. What’s your skincare routine like, especially for someone who’s often under makeup and bright lights for shoots?
Chantal Monaghan:
I like to have a facial once a month and ensure every night and morning I complete my skincare routine. I go to bed make up free. Even if you are tired try to clean your skin as you’ll notice the difference waking up to a nice clean face as opposed to one with makeup that’s been on for 24 hours.
Namita Nayyar:
What’s your go-to skincare product for keeping your skin smooth and hydrated? Do you have any tips for people looking to achieve a similar glow?
Chantal Monaghan:
My go to skin care product would be biotherma. I love using their wipes to take off my makeup, and then my favorite face wash would be Nivea. My go to skin moisturizer is skin food every model uses skin food moisturizer. I think it’s so hydrating and incredible.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you combat skin fatigue, especially after long travel or photo shoots that can often be harsh on your skin?
Chantal Monaghan:
By keeping up my beauty routine morning and night. Keeping hydrated. Get plenty of sleep. Have a water spray for your skin during travel and long days.
Namita Nayyar:
Are there any essential products you use regularly for skincare, or do you prefer natural, minimalistic approaches?
Chantal Monaghan:
I think natural products are always the best and less is always more so I think 2 to 3 products in your routine is amazing. I don’t really layer on many serums because I think the least amount on your skin is better for it to breathe.
Namita Nayyar:
How important is sun protection in your skincare routine, and what are your favorite ways to protect your skin from harmful rays?
Chantal Monaghan:
Sun protection is very important as too much sun can have an aging effect on your skin. I wear a moisturizer that has UV protection and sunscreen if going out into the hot sun during the middle of the day.
Namita Nayyar:
You’ve achieved so much as an international cover model. What do you think has been the key to your success in such a competitive industry?
Chantal Monaghan:
I am very committed to my career and have a strong work ethic. Networking and building solid relationships in the industry is important but I always remember family and good friends keep you grounded and I am very lucky they are always there for support. I try to stay focused on my goals whilst ensuring I also look after my own health and wellbeing.
Namita Nayyar:
What role has persistence played in your journey to the top of the modeling world? Were there any challenges you had to overcome to get to where you are today?
Chantal Monaghan:
Rejection is part of the process so I had to learn to not take this personally as it is not a reflection on my ability. This happens to all of us whether new to the industry or very experienced. I am persistent, you need to be, as sometimes if you really wanted a job and it does not eventuate you have to realize that other opportunities will come along and focus on moving forward. Like they say, when one door closes, another one opens. I have always tried to stay positive.
Namita Nayyar:
You’ve worked with some of the biggest names in fashion. What advice would you give to aspiring models trying to break into the international scene?
Chantal Monaghan:
As I talked about already, be persistent. Stay true to yourself and remember family is important. You will gain more experience over the years and get to know what is right for you and the direction you want to be heading. Remember, rejection is not a reflection on you; it is all part of the process of the job. Keep a healthy lifestyle and stay focused on what you want to achieve.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you handle the pressure of always looking your best, especially with the public eye constantly on you?
Chantal Monaghan:
I love getting all dressed up for events such as the Cannes Film Festival and wearing beautiful creations from many top designers. However, I do not feel any pressure to constantly look that way and as long as I feel healthy I do not mind if someone sees me makeup free and in my active gear or loungewear. It’s just being normal which I think most people can relate too.
Namita Nayyar:
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being a cover model, and how do you maintain passion for your work after achieving so much success?
Chantal Monaghan:
I am still very passionate about my work and it has never lost its appeal for me. I love seeing the end product after I have done a shoot and have a feeling of accomplishment and honoured to be chosen.
Namita Nayyar:
What do you think sets you apart in the modeling world, and how have you stayed true to your unique vision as you’ve grown in your career?
Chantal Monaghan:
Perseverance plays a strong part in my continuing career and vision of where I want to be in this industry. I have never given up, even when I may have felt rejected in past experiences. I have grown to know my strengths and abilities and just keep striving towards growing my career. I have always ensured I stay fit and healthy knowing the challenges faced in this industry.
Namita Nayyar:
Looking ahead, what goals do you have for the next phase of your career? Is there anything new you’re hoping to explore in the modeling or fashion industry?
Chantal Monaghan:
I would like to get into the TV industry in the capacity of acting in some form. Perhaps play a role on a modeling show. I am also interested in the back end of the fashion industry, what makes a great designer and how they survive the longevity of the business.
I think some of the attributes needed to survive the longevity of the modeling industry would apply also in the fashion industry. I would also love to help younger models to enter the modeling industry and help them like I was helped when I first started and guide them. I still have many career goals. I would love to accomplish.
Namita Nayyar:
Outside of modeling, do you have any personal hobbies or activities that help you relax and stay balanced?
Chantal Monaghan:
Exercise and walking help me relax. I enjoy going out to dinner or meeting friends for coffee. During my free time, even though I travel a lot for my job, I do like to explore places I have not been to before. I also try to go home for Christmas to connect again with family and old friends which a good reminder is of where I came from and who I am.
Namita Nayyar:
What message would you like to share with your fans that look up to you as a role model both inside and outside the industry?
Chantal Monaghan:
Never forget who you are and even though you should always have a strong work ethic in life don’t take yourself too seriously. There are always those around you who may be a little jealous of who you are or what you’ve achieved but be confident in yourself and avoid any negativity directed at you.
It’s your life and you need to focus on what you want out of it while still being loyal and thankful to those who support you along the way.
Chantal Monaghan Social Media Presence
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chantalmonaghan/
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar President of womenfitness.net and should not be reproduced, copied, or hosted in part or full anywhere without express permission.
All Written Content Copyright © 2025 Women Fitness