When you find a hair and makeup artist you love, you've hit the jackpot. Kris, owner of Grit Studio in Alexandria, is a stylist I can count on any time I book. I've seen Kris for about the past year for blowouts and makeup applications for a variety of events, photo shoots and theater performances. Kris listens carefully to the service you want. Whenever I've shown reference photos, she re-creates them flawlessly. With makeup, I love the lash application she includes and the long-staying wear of the makeup products she applies. She's also extremely efficient, and after the first visit, she perfected my look and made each subsequent appointment easy, quick and simple. I recently visited for a headshot package she offered, where a professional photographer took new photos in her studio after I received hair and makeup treatment. I really appreciated Kris during the shoot, as she offered tips for posing and even touched up my hair and clothing to help me get the perfect shots. Her vast experience as an editorial stylist and big event artist (weddings, glam, etc.) has really provided her with an expert eye that made the photo shoot even more successful. If you're looking for hair and makeup you can trust to look great, I'd highly recommend Kris in Alexandria. read more

Grit Studio and owner Kris Clark are incredible! Every service is provided with full consultation and the client's vision in mind! I have been a client of the Salon for four years and continue to be completely satisfied and amazed of the results! Kris continues to study to perfect her craft! Having mature hair, I decided to get extensions. The color, technique, style are perfection! There's a reason she is the small business woman of the year, and the best salon in Old Town Alexandria! Looking for an incredible Salon, stylist/colorist and products and makeup that are simply healthy for you and your hair? Grit Studio is for you!! read more

Last minute, I decided it was a bad idea go to a gala without having my hair and makeup professionally done. At 9:30 PM the night before the event I searched frantically for somebody to help me out in this area. Luckily, I messaged Kris on her Facebook page and she responded within a matter of minutes. I told her what my schedule was and she was able to squeeze me and the day of the gala for my hair and make up. THANK GOODNESS! Kris was really upbeat and fun. She was professional and her studio is very clean. She whipped my long, thick hair up and applied my makeup in less than 2 hrs. She did a really good job, I'll def go back to Kris and I highly recommend her. read more

Grit Studio - Quick updo and makeup application on last minute notice. - Hair Stylists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Super impressed with Kris @ Grit Studios for my wedding day hair and makeup. The appointment was enjoyable and not stuffy, and I was very happy. Would recommend! read more

Grit Studio - Hair Stylists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Kris has been cutting and coloring my hair for two years and I have never been happier with my color. She uses techniques that no other stylist I've been to uses, and it shows the level of talent and dedication to her art. She's also an extremely caring and considerate person who stays on schedule and asks how your life is going. The new studio located on Union Street is stunning, Kris follows all the state guidelines for operating salons during covid and I feel very safe going there. PS - she has the best product recommendations and recently started her own product line. I purchased her amethyst oil on my last visit and like it more than my beloved Olaplex #7, which I also purchased from her. read more

This was my first time with Kris. We just moved into the area and were referred her by a good friend. She is clearly passionate about her profession and it shows in her work. Her studio was very safe during COVID and I was the only client. She also offered a fresh mask to me so I didn't get my personal one stained during the process. I am very happy with both the balayage and cut I got from her and will definitely be back. read more

Visiting from CA for a family Thanksgiving gathering. Utilizing yelp, I narrowed it down to Grit Studio and did make an appoint with Kris a few weeks in advance my arrival. The entire experience was excellent!!! Friendly, very experienced and my blow out was perfect. Frankly, it was better than my stylist at home in CA... Highly, highly recommend. read more

How can you cancel at 9 pm on the day before the event. Absolutely terrible customer services. My fiancée booked you 2 months in advance and you cancel on her after two confirmation messages the last two days at 9pm. Who can she book the day before the event at 9 pm!?!? At least give us enough time to book another makeup artist. I wish I can give you negative stars Answer to owners comment. You knew that you had a gravely Ill family member then you should've let us known before hand that you were flying away and there was a chance you couldn't make it back. You said your flight was delayed twice??? So why didn't you tell us that instead of sending confirmations reminders and waiting till 9pm?? Then you couldn't even find or give us a recommendation to another salon. Then you woke her up at 1230am saying you some how found a hidden flight !?!? Really a hidden flight not listed huh!? Then you have your assistant text at 7 am saying you could still see her. No ma'am you are in the wrong. If you knew there was possibility of not making it you should've been giving us a warning and not waited till 9 pm. read more

A good friend brought me to Kris a handful of years ago, been going to her ever since!! I'm picky about my hair cuts and when I find someone I trust and like I will go to them for some time. I had one who first cut my hair in the mid 70's well 30+ years later when she finally stopped I had to find someone else. Now that I've had Kris doing my hair whenever I move from the area I will make sure to arrange visits back to the area when I'm in need of a cut so she can do it. Oh and she's a beautiful person. I have always enjoyed the personal touch of her studio's. I'm a lifelong fan!! read more

I found this gem of a salon based on Yelp reviews. I desperately needed highlights and lowlights. Current blond shade didn't suit me at all. Plus the grays were taking over. I got an appointment within 1 day. Upon arrival Kris was warm and welcoming. She assessed my current bad color and offered suggestions to correct. Once we discussed she went right to work. A short time later my highlights look great. We did a little trimming and blow dry. Left very happy with my color and cut touch up. I will definitely return for my next cut. read more

I've been cutting my own hair since I was 18 and have done well enough to "get by" as DIY but when I need some master skills and style update, my wife and I absolutely love Kris Labonte Clark! If you're in need of anything hair and makeup she's the Boss! Super Easy online booking on her site as well as she's mobile and can come to you by appointment!: https://www.krisclarkartistry.com Hit her up today! ‍#newdo #Pompadour #lookgoodfeelgood‍ read more

So...I just moved back to the area and within a week, three "stylists" ruined my hair. I searched Yelp to find someone who had raving reviews. Well, I found Kris. She fit me in on a Saturday and although I had horrible experiences, I felt great about her. Besides having parallel energies, we worked well together. She put any anxiety to rest and walked me through the process. Not only is she a fabulous "magician", she is personable and has grit. If you don't know what that is, YouTube it. Kris has full reign over my hair from now on out. You need to call her...what are you waiting for??? read more

Kris did an incredibly wonderful job on my hair and make up for my wedding. I loved working with her. Because I live in Los Angeles and wasn't going to be in D.C. until the week of the wedding, I was unable to do a trial until a few days before the big event. I normally feel awkward and insecure when it comes to my appearance; add on the circumstances of being a first time bride at the age of 45 (crows feet!), uncomfortable in front of cameras *and* a natural worrier. All this to say, I brought more than a little anxiety to the table. Yet, the moment I met Kris, I felt immediately at ease and happy. Kris is a savvy, enthusiastic independent business owner who loves her work and has every reason to be confident in her skills. She's an artist. The trial appointment was a super fun girls' afternoon. She came to our hotel with her fully mobile set-up--everything that was needed. I felt so pampered. When it was time to look in the mirror, I cried. I never knew I could look so beautiful. Flash forward to the morning of the wedding. I relaxed by morning light in my quiet hotel suite while Kris worked her magic. She even brought music--perfect for wedding preparation. It was a lovely experience. Kris' positive demeanor, thoughtfulness, professionalism and wicked-amazing skills added so much peace to the first part of my wedding day. My time with her really nurtured me for the ceremony to come. read more

Grit Studio - Hair by Kris Clark - Hair Stylists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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New to Grit and it's knowledgeable staff. Personally enjoyed the energy and professional experience I received there. Kris could not be more accommodating. read more

My second visit I needed Hair and Makeup for my husband's promotion ceremony. Kris is the best! If you are new to this area or you looking for new hairstylist this is it! She understands when I tell her not to cut too much of my hair or when I just want simple looking makeup! As long as I live in Alexandria I won't be going elsewhere. Beautiful clean salon by King St. and lots of street parking. A++ in my book. read more

Grit Studio - Hair Stylists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I went to see Kris for the first time two weeks ago and her reviews don't lie - she's great! Very personable and also very skilled with cuts and color. She gave me the best hair cut I've had in a long time and was also very professional and service-oriented when I asked to make some changes to my hair color a few days after my appointment. Although you could go somewhere less expensive, you get what you pay for, and Kris gives cuts and color that allow you to go a while before you need a refresh. The number of back-to-back one star reviews that she's received recently (very weird, IMO...) don't reflect my experience at all. read more

Had my hair done here while traveling. Wonderful experience, very nice and natural-looking highlights. would definitely do it again next time I am in town! Thank you Kris! read more

I must have received my haircut from Kris on an "off day" for her. The cut was ok. As it grew out, it was totally unmanageable. I've since returned to my former hair stylist. I have to tell you I have fine hair, I like it all the same length and at chin length. But, for the price, it was not worth it. Sorry, Kris. I see you have plenty of fans, I am not one. read more

Kris is an awesome colorist. I've had other colorists really screw up my color, but Kris really understands how to treat my blond hair, and has successfully rehabed my color back to the pale blonde that I love. read more

Kris and her team were all amazing! Went to Grit Studios to get my hair color corrected. Kris explained what went wrong and how to fix it, what realistic colors that I will be able to get with my very dark thick Asian hair. She was also nice enough to explain the process of the hair coloring which I highly appreciated! Who wouldn't like to know what they are doing to your hair, right?! Scheduling and making an appointment with Pam was also a breeze. Most salons are booked up for the whole month and I wouldn't have known how fantastic their team is if I weren't able to schedule right away as I wanted it done asap. Highly recommend and would definitely come back. read more

My daughter wanted to get her hair straightened. She is mixed race with really curly hair . I asked a couple people and they recommend a Keratin treatment . I stopped by the local hair salon in my office building (bubbles) and spoke with the manager . I felt comfortable enough to bring her .. So on a sat morning I go and off the bat the lady quotes my a higher price then I was quoted the day b4.. my daughter sits in the chair and I'm just watching and as the time goes I can see my daughter face and I know her .. she is not doing well . I asked her what's wrong and she says it hurts .. so I immediately let the stylist know .. she is almost done so i tell her to just finish.. her hair is straight but it's greasy feeling not natural.. fast forward to Kris Clark .. Ms 5 star review .. I took my daughter to Ms . Clark on a Saturday morning . First this I noticed is she is in her own studio , she's the owner , one on one .. her and my daughter.. I sit closely watch my daughter because of my last experience.. she smiling the whole time occasionally falling asleep because it's a long process . But as you can see from the finish product she was extremely happy with the results and was I .. my daughter could not stop running her hands through her hair .. I explain to Kris about my past experience and she told me not all studios use the top of the line product .. That's a major factor and of course the stylist skill ,. Well Kris Clark has both and she can do any texture of hair .. I've been back twice since but I heard she moving studios further down the street but still in old town .. great news .. 5+ Stars for this Super Star! read more

Grit Studio - Before and after Kris Clark Artistry - Hair Stylists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Both Kris and Pam were fantastic! They were very professional and helped me with not only cutting my hair but also scheduled me for a headshot for my business profile. I would highly recommend them to anyone! read more

I spent $98 for one side of my hair to be shorter than the other. Didn't notice it at the time because one side of my hair was styled flipped in and the other side flipping out. Just washed and blew out my hair and I'm raging. I live clear across the country so now I need to go get it fixed. Nor a happy camper. read more

I've been going to Kris for I'm guessing 6+ years. She is incredible - talent, hard work and personality in one. I have long, dry, wavy, naturally dark blonde hair (much less dark thanks to her), which she has taken care of through thick and literally thin (lost 1/2 my hair to medical condition). She always makes it look fantastic. From early 20's coworker: "The color and depth is amazing!" From late 60's client: "You don't get it colored! It looks too good!" From me: when I didn't have a travel budget, but did have a hair budget (priorities), I took a 45 minute metro ride and then walked 55 minutes to get to her at one of her previous studios. I'm glad it's SO much more convenient now, but really, I'd do it again. She's worth it. read more

Kris did my hair and makeup for an awards gala, and it was my first time meeting her. She is fun, energetic, and skilled. I gave her just a little direction, yet both hair and makeup came out precisely as I imagined them. She took me on time and finished early, and for the first time I had eyelashes that were false but did not make me look as if I should be standing on the corner of 42nd and Broadway back in 1988. Very clean, natural, and classic. Thank you, Kris! read more

I had highlights in that I wasn't happy with because it left some noticeable, unnatural looking stripes in my hair. I was leaving for some events out of town 2 days later and realized it would bother me the whole time if I didn't get a color correction. Kris Clark had excellent reviews and I reached out in the off chance she was able to fit me in before my flight. She responded within minutes and fit me in early the following morning. Kris did an amazing job undoing my highlight stripes and made the corrected highlights look beautiful and natural. The end result was also much lower maintenance than the color I walked into the appointment with. I appreciated her very helpful advice about my hair and look forward to seeing her again in the future. THANK YOU KRIS! read more

I'm so glad I started having Kris take care of my hair. She makes me look good (and I need all the help I can get). I can always count on a great conversation, as well. Her salon is an asset for Old Town Alexandria. read more

After numerous yelp and google searches, I decided to try Kris out due to all the positive reviews and I'm so glad I did. I desperately needed a haircut and color (roots and new grays peeking out ‍) and was able to book an appointment online at a date and time was convenient for me (massive plus) and it was so easy! I showed up and Kris was so friendly, nice and worked with me on what would work well with my hair and talked about everything she was going to be doing. The end result was me loving my summery hair and can't wait until Fall comes around when I book my next appointment to see what fall colors we'll go with. read more

Just moved to Alexandria about 1.5 months ago and needed to trim off my split ends especially with the cold weather getting colder. I was nervous to try out a brand new hairstylist but being Paul Mitchell trained, she exceeding all my expectations. She didn't shy away from my frizzy curly, bi-racial hair, and that made me feel so much better. Simply put, Kris was amazing. read more

Kris is a very professional and knowledgeable stylist. It didn't take much explaining for her to understand what I was l looking for and she definitely delivered. read more

I've highlighted my hair for 10+ years. Hands down the best I've had. Plus these reasons I will be a life long customer: 1. Initial conversation was as if Kris was a mind-reader by day, hairdresser by night. Unlike the masses that assume they know what you want, she was an outstanding listener and asked all the right questions. 2. She gave good advice but but skipped the sales pitches-a customer advocate bc the products can be found cheaper elsewhere 3. Happy, no nonsense personality w highest professionalism-exactly what I needed after a long work day. I also appreciated her thanking the rest of the staff like the hair washers 4.half foil and haircut priced VERY reasonably, especially given the quality service and convenient location 5. She specializes in blondes and/or long hair. Based on the yelp photos she can do just about anything She just moved to the DC area so get her while the getting's good! read more

I found Kris on Yelp! when i was looking for another salon since I was unhappy with the service at another salon (which was voted "best of" but was super pretentious) and the stylist was audibly exasperated with my thick hair. Kris did an AMAZING cut and finish on my mid-length SUPER COARSE, THICK long hair. I've already booked a color appointment! I love it when my hair feels so healthy and my style is refreshed! :) read more

Kris Clark has been working with me on model/portfolio photoshoots for some time now and while I rarely give out reviews/testimonials, I can confidently recommend her hair and makeup skills as world class. If you have an opportunity to give her a try.. you won't be sorry. This is all compounded by the fact that she's just a genuinely good person to be around and one of my favorite humans. :) Shane/Deep Digital Photography read more

I managed to get a last minute appointment while passing through town because I was desperate for a haircut. So glad I found Kris at Grit!! Not only did she do a great job with my long grown out hair, but her space is so lovely and relaxing. If I lived here, I'd be a regular. read more

Kris is a terrific hair stylist who takes the time to evaluate your hair. She errs on the side of caution while working with your hair and has no issue doing more if wanted. From the first step in the door you feel welcome and at ease, like visiting a friend. Highly recommended, so fortunate to have found her! read more

I came into Studio 22 with the usual wedding day woes: last minute logistics changes, unexpected overnight guests and no clear idea how to do my hair. Immediately Kris put me at ease and got to work (the only guidance I provided was "make me look natural and good"). We started with the makeup, which included faux lashes (something I've personally never done before) but it created a nice dark and thick layer of lashes. It amazed me how my natural lashes and the faux lashes became one with just a little mascara. A couple people had asked if I had been "air brushed" inferring that my skin look so smooth and even toned that "I must have been air brushed" but I told them Kris is a magician with a brush. I especially loved how the makeup matched my skin tone so well that my strapless wedding gown showed no difference in color from face-to-neck-to-shoulders. As for my hair, Kris wasn't even expecting a bride who needed help with an up-do but she was more than willing and created a classically beautiful look with my veil and "headband". My hair was soft and pliable yet had enough volume to make it all come together. Best of all, both my makeup and hair lasted all day! I took the lashes off with ease the next morning in the shower. I also haven't noticed any breakout and usually my skin would get "angry" with other makeups I've used (ok, the only time I deviate from my normal foundation is Halloween and those makeups are more like oil based paint, but none-the-less, so far been breakout free.) Kudos are due to Kris and I will be back for future special events (and days I just need a pick me up). As I get the professional photos from the day, I will post a few as examples of my hair and makeup. As for Studio 22, it is located just above Panda Express (near the Wegmans) in Alexandria. read more

This was the 4th hair studio I've tried since moving to Old Town. I finally found my hair salon! Kris is not only an amazing stylist but also easy to reach, fun to chat with and I felt super safe. Can't wait to try her makeup services when we are past COVID. read more

So happy that Grit Studio has reopened. Kris and her staff did such a great job of distancing clients and making me feel safe during these uncertain times. I've been with Kris for many years because she's the best and I trust her. So glad to support this small business! read more

I found Kris on Yelp - I had been going to someone for over 10 years and needed a change. From the moment I walked in her studio I knew I had made a good decision. I appreciated that she listened to what I wanted and cut / colored my hair exactly as we discussed. She carries a great selection of natural and reasonably priced products which was also a refreshing change from other salons. I have been going to her for over a year now and have referred her to several friends. I am now a loyal client. She has a clean and relaxing salon in a great Old Town location. Book now - her schedule fills up! read more

I had worked with Kris for a few years while she was still working out of Boston and she was a pleasure to have around. Worked with her personally at some Events and made her my personal stylist as well. Over the years I have seen her do some amazing things, especially with girls hair. Anyone from models, to photographers, to brides and just girls going out at night always complimented her on her stylish, creatives Ideas and how quickly she was able to realize them. If you need someone to make a hair design and makeup combo happen, then Kris is the one for the Job. She will make you looking stunning, and sometimes even unrecognizable (Halloween). Talent for her can only be described by looking at her style portfolio where you can see the potential that she could have on your hair. Anyways, before I rave her up to high, I seriously can only suggest her services. She is a very credible artist! Just contact her and give her a try, especially if you are looking for a new style! read more