Modern Salon
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

EMMYS HAIR: Kerry Washington's Classic Chignon-inspired Updo

Celebrity hair stylist Kiyah Wright gave Actress Kerry Washington a classic chignon-inspired updo for the 64th Emmy Awards held in Los Angeles. “She wanted to keep it unbelievably simple, just like what’s on the runways,” says Wright. Get the look inside.

September 26, 2012
1 min to read


Actress Kerry Washington speaks onstage during the 64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on September 23, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Getty Images

Celebrity hair stylist Kiyah Wright gave Actress Kerry Washington a classic chignon-inspired updo for the 64th Emmy Awards held in Los Angeles.

“She wanted to keep it unbelievably simple, just like what’s on the runways,” says Wright.

Ad Loading...

TRY IT:

STEP 1: Prep the hair by applying Clairol Professional Jazzing in Clear to dried hair from root to tip. Let the product sit for 15 minutes and then rinse it out.

STEP 2: Using a round brush, blow dry the hair in sections until completely dried.

STEP 3: Tease the hair at the roots on top of the head and apply clip-ins in a matching hue backwards for added volume.

STEP 4: Spritz the face-framing pieces with gold hairspray for temporary sheen and brightness.

Ad Loading...

STEP 5: Create a deep side part and create a ponytail at the crown. Then twist the hair around the ponytail to create a bun.

STEP 6: Secure with pins, and loosen random pieces to create a more voluminous bun.

STEP 7: Spritz with a strong hold hairspray for long-lasting hold.

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 23: at the 64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on September 23, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Getty Images

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Career

Ad Loading...
Michelle Bowden works on a hair piece on a mannequin
Career|Articles|Apr 15, 2026

How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

Ad Loading...
Career|Articles|Jan 9, 2026

Beautiful Careers Happen Here

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!

Sponsored by Ulta Beauty

Ad Loading...