Updated September 2026 — Murphy Gozzard, Paddington
The 78th Annual Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles delivered some stunning and inspiring event hair. Specifically, celebrities including Florence Pugh, Nicole Kidman, and Kaley Cuoco opted for swept-up hairstyles that felt effortless, textured, and completely of the moment. Here at Murphy Gozzard in Paddington, we're breaking down three looks we loved most, and the Kevin Murphy and Oribe products to get you there
Why Were Updos the Dominant Hair Story at the 2026 Emmys?
There's just something about tousled, sexy, messy strands piled atop a celebrity's head — showcasing some sparklers dangling from the ears, allowing an impressive neckline to take centre stage, or just generally framing a glammed-up visage. The 2026 Emmys proved that the updo is far from predictable. In fact, worn with the right texture and intention, it's one of the most expressive styles on a red carpet.
Florence Pugh: Romantic Updo with Punk Princess Energy
Florence Pugh paired her lilac, off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood gown with a romantic, textured updo with punk princess energy. Undone, slightly rebellious, and utterly beautiful. It's the kind of updo that looks deceptively simple and actually requires real skill to pull off convincingly.
To prep hair for a textured updo like this, Kevin Murphy Hydrate-Me Wash and Rinse delivers the softness and manageability that makes styling easier from the very first step. For the updo itself, Kevin Murphy Doo.Over Dry Finishing Spray adds the lived-in texture and grip that holds a look like this together without any stiffness or crunch.
Nicole Kidman: The Chignon With Curtain Bangs
Nicole Kidman's chignon sat close to the nape with face-framing curtain bangs and loose pieces. Polished but not rigid. It's a master class in how to wear a classic style with a modern sensibility.
For hair that sits this smoothly at the nape, prep matters enormously. Oribe Serene Scalp Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner delivers the kind of sleekness and manageability that makes a chignon look this refined. Finish with Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray for a hold that keeps every strand in place without any crunch or stiffness.
Kaley Cuoco: The Effortless Low Bun
Kaley Cuoco arrived with a soft, effortless low bun that felt completely unfussy and completely chic. No excess. Just beautifully placed hair that let her gown and her presence do the talking. It's a reminder that the most impactful styles are often the simplest ones.
For a bun this smooth and polished, Kevin Murphy Smooth.Again Wash and Rinse eliminates frizz at the wash stage and creates the sleek base that makes a low bun look intentional rather than rushed. Pair with Oribe Superfine Shine Spray to catch the light beautifully and finish with precision.
The Prep That Makes Every Updo Better
The right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type is the single most important preparation step, because hair that is well-nourished, smooth, and manageable sits better, and photographs beautifully. Ask our Paddington team about the right routine for your hair at your next visit. Explore our services at Murphy Gozzard and let's talk styling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the best updo looks at the 2026 Emmy Awards?
The standout updo moments from the 78th Annual Emmy Awards included Florence Pugh's romantic, textured updo, Nicole Kidman's sleek chignon with face-framing curtain bangs, and Kaley Cuoco's effortless soft low bun.
What products do I need to recreate an Emmy-worthy updo at home?
Prep starts with the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, followed by a smoothing serum before blow-drying and a finishing spray to hold the style in place. Book a consultation and our Paddington team will put together the right product routine for your hair.
Book Your Updo Appointment at Murphy Gozzard, Paddington
Inspired by the most beautiful hair moments of the 2026 Emmys? Book now at Murphy Gozzard and let our Paddington team create your perfect updo moment.