A swing bob is a haircut trimmed shorter in the back with stacked layers and gradually gets longer near the sides. Gradually stacking the layers in this bob allows the hair to fall naturally forward as if it’s “swinging” ahead.
Since its introduction in the ’70s, this bob has been embraced by women everywhere for its relaxed vibe. That’s why it’s among the most popular hair trends on the red carpet. See how TV stars Jennifer Lawrence, Cobie Smulders, and Christina Applegate style it!
The angle combined with the length of this sassy bob creates the perfect design for a contemporary look. The swing bob appears in the classic chin-length cut, in angled shapes, and even in a shorter version.
When determining if a swing bob will suit you, hairstylist Linda Pomilio from Pennsylvania recommends considering these essential questions. “How often should I be getting this hairstyle shaped to maintain it? How much effort will it take to blow it out?” Additionally, keep in mind that you cannot put a bob into a ponytail!
According to Linda, short hairstyles should be trimmed every 5-6 weeks. “It also requires a bit of refined blow-drying, so ensure you are prepared to invest the time. If you have curly or coarse hair, be ready to put in some effort,” she adds.
Her top swing bob advice? “Know what length you are aiming for. Be prepared to take your length above the shoulders or even shorter. Leaving the length too long will lead to the hair flipping outward.”
When asked how to style any swing bob variation, she suggests, “Aim to blow-dry the ends straight down rather than under for a bolder look. You’ll need a round brush that matches the length of your bob.” Her general rule is to use a larger brush for longer hair and a smaller one for shorter hair.
For products, Linda loves Redken’s Full-frame Mousse to provide fine hair with volume and a light hold. Otherwise, she uses Olaplex #6 Bond Smoothing Creme for thick or curly hair.
Here are images of modern swing bob haircuts for your next source of inspiration!
Stylish Medium-Length Swing Bob

The thing about a bob haircut is it enhances the elegance of a black mane. This stylish medium-length swing bob is a gem you can wear and enjoy under the sun. This cut is an A-line beveled bob. It’s sleek and classic, yet the strong slope of the angle adds a bit of edginess and creates a lot of movement. This medium swing bob cut for women can be tailored for any hair density or head shape. Another great thing about swing bobs, or any bob, is their versatility. Try using a curling wand or wash and wear with a texture spray. To maintain this shape, you will need a trim every 6 weeks. A precision bob will always grow out with ease. It can also be squared off as it grows, or it could mean you’re ready for a change.
The Stylish Swing Bob Haircut

This is a stylish swing bob. It’s perfect for a new mom who doesn’t want to sacrifice her length but seeks something effortless and low maintenance. Discover how to achieve a great blowout at home, regardless of your hair texture. That will be your essential foundation for this chic, refined swing bob cut. Begin with 70% dry hair, apply a good heat protectant like Kenra Blow dry spray, then section, section, section! It will simplify the blow drying process.
You can also incorporate a quality volume mousse or root boost for extra lift with finer-textured hair (Drybar has excellent volume products). Finally, finish with a lightweight serum (Moroccan or Brazilian blowout dry oil) or a texture spray for a more tousled look. Try Fatboy Hair, tousle, and go! It transforms 2nd-day hair into something fabulous!
Stylish A-Line Bob

In this a-line cut, the angle is more pronounced, resulting in a more striking transition from the middle point of the back of the neck to the end near the chin. A-line cuts are perfect for anyone to wear, needing only a few tweaks. For someone with fine hair, I wouldn’t add layers, as this can make the hair appear fuller. Conversely, for someone with thick hair, adding layers is essential to diminish the weight and bulk from the perimeter of the haircut.
The Elegant Swing Bob

The elegant swing bob is one of the most flattering short crops. If you can commit to the extra upkeep, this short bob cut will look exceptionally beautiful with a soft balayage or highlights.
Stylish Asymmetrical Swing Bob with Side Part

This stylish asymmetrical swing bob showcases low-textured and tapered layers complemented by a horseshoe line. Its creator, Melissa Smith of Appomattox, VA, advises maintaining your front length, offering you enhanced styling options. This cut swing bob style suits women with thick and straight hair and is perfect for those who are hesitant about fully committing to a shorter bob.
Swing Bob for Thin Hair

Everyone deserves the bob of their dreams, so here’s a swing bob for thin hair! Channel your inner sweet French girl and opt for this neck-length cut to amp up your brown locks.
Chic Layered Swing Bob with Bangs for Women Over 60

This stylish layered swing bob with bangs is perfect for women over 60. The soft layers add volume and movement to fine to medium-density hair, while the fringe beautifully frames the face, enhancing the eyes. The A-line cut offers a contemporary touch, and the silver shade elevates the overall elegance. Ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces, this style is easy to maintain with regular trims to keep the shape sharp.
Chic Blonde Bob with Layered Graduations

This stylish angled bob features exquisite layering and volume. The textured layers create a lively and fashionable appearance. Maintaining this beautiful blonde shade at home is simple; just use a purple shampoo to neutralize any unwanted yellow tones.
Chic Grey Swing Bob with Bangs

A chic grey swing bob with bangs is one of the most stylish sleek options. This swing bob hairstyle appears fabulous with textured ends to soften the bluntness.
Stylish Inverted Blonde Bob

This stylish inverted blonde bob will enhance your natural radiance. With these variations of the bob hairstyle, adding texture to the back of your locks is ideal to reveal the layers.
Timeless Long Swing Bob with Bangs

It’s classic, stylish, and a look that captures every heart! Opt for the iconic black hair color to showcase the luster and elegance of your hair. This long swing bob with bangs will beautifully complement your everlasting charm.
Curly Hair Swing Bob

Explore the ideal swing bob tailored for curly hair! Achieve a chic short haircut with a lively finish to showcase your textured tresses.
Stylish Weave Swing Bob with Side Bangs

This stylish weave swing bob hairstyle is stunning in every way! The razor’s precision creates layers that appear soft in its black shade. The side bangs enhance the overall look with additional glamour. This weave side part swing bob is timeless. This style brings out the “elegant woman” in you!
You will need to know how to maintain this style as this bob hairstyle is designed for a woman who is sophisticated, chic, and poised. Relaxed hair for these swing bob hairdos is recommended because it imparts a natural essence. Use a 1 1/4-inch curling or flat iron to reshape this cut and a light-holding spray to ensure the layers stay intact.
Extended Swing Bob Wig

This medium-length swing bob is ideal for a fashionable yet low-maintenance style. Perfect for straight, medium-density hair, it features an elegant A-line silhouette that enhances an oval face, highlighting the cheekbones and jawline. Its uniform length makes it less suitable for very thick or curly hair types, as it may necessitate increased styling effort. The rich, brunette hue adds dimension, making it a classic option. Keep in mind, a lustrous shine, as displayed here, is essential for the bob to sway with ease.
Stylish Short Stacked Swing Bob with Side Bangs

Choosing a stylish, short, stacked swing bob with side bangs is the ideal option when your fine hair requires definition. By selecting the right color for short bobs for women, you can blend dark locks with subtle warm, light brown highlights for a chic appearance that stands out.
A Classic Swing Bob

A classic swing bob is also perfect for your fine or thin tresses. This variation of swing bob features layers to create volume and shape.
The Sleek Swing Bob Cut

This medium-length swing bob provides a polished, jawline-enhancing shape that is particularly flattering for heart-shaped faces. The asymmetrical design introduces a lively appeal, featuring a seamless transition that ensures fluidity. Perfect for thick hair, its volume highlights the intricacies of the side-parted style. Although low maintenance, it demands expert cutting to maintain the bob’s structure. Keep in mind its limited updo possibilities due to its length.
Brunette Angled Straight Swing Bob

A rich brunette, angled bob shines when styled sleek or straight. The angled bob highlights your neck and jawline with its clean lines. If you’re not keen on spending excessive time on hair styling, bobs are excellent haircuts to consider. These styles are made to fall into place and achieve a polished finish. For a sleek and stylish appearance, utilize a one-inch flat iron.
Sharp Precision Lob Cut

Try this sharp, precision-lob haircut for your next look! Such short bob hairstyles for women work great with straight hair. At your next stylist appointment, ask about upkeep for this cut. You must be willing to invest in quality styling products for these swing bob hairstyles.
Stylish Swing Bob Hairstyles for Women Over 50

This beautiful blonde swing bob is ideal for women in their 50s who are actively working and seeking a contemporary look. Swing bob haircuts become increasingly attractive when designed with soft layers to enhance natural movement.
Layered Stacks and Golden Highlights for Short Locks

Layered stacks and golden highlights for short locks present a lovely way to add volume and lift to your hairstyle. The highlights introduce texture, while the layers enhance height, creating a sophisticated appearance that suits everyone.
African American Swing Bob Style

This elegant swing bob for black hair starts short in the back, gradually grows longer towards the front, and is crafted with meticulous precision. Parting the dark tresses will reveal how stunning this looks on you.