I gave Swerve a whirl--based on the recommendation of a friend--when I first moved to Chicago. I went for a trim and highlights. The stylist did a good job, though I wouldn't say it's the best I've ever had for either. I also feel like I paid quite a bit more than I should have for what I got. I'm not cheap when it comes to my hair; I used to go to much more expensive salons in NYC but then in turn, I also got a lot more for my money... Two things that annoyed me - 1) they hawk their products to no end. I understand that many salons do this, but there are just as many that don't... Also, when my stylist asked me what products I used and I told her Aveda, she kind of responded as if I used some sub-par brand and went on to tell me they don't carry Aveda in the salon and why... 2) No tips on credit cards... ugh... Had to go run down to the ATM after I paid so that I could leave a tip. Pesky, but annoying... read more

Andrew cut my bangs and hair like no one has ever done before. Most stylists won't cut bangs for me or won't do it the way I want them to, but he listened to me, gave advice but didn't push it, and still made me look great! I'm about to call to make another appointment! read more

Pretty decent facial for it to be a Groupon deal. I purchased the 90 minute deal. I was impressed with the exfoliating mask she used. Don't remember her name but it was a very straightforward appointment... no unnecessary fluff. No extreme product pushing. No pressure to rebook. Just what I needed. read more

I'll start by saying I am QUITE particular about my hair. Curly hair is so easy to mess up! I used to dread getting my hair cut at other places because I usually ended up hating it, but I'm a changed woman with Emma! I have been going to her for about a year now for cut and color based on a friend's recommendation and now my entire group of friends goes to her. She is great with all textures and styles of hair (Mine is long and curly, but other friends run the gamut of straight, wavy, long, and short-ish). Emma is friendly and really listens to you when you tell her what you are looking for. I think they have 20% off for first time clients, but don't hold me to that, I'd ask when you make an appointment. read more

Three words: Stacy is awesome. If you are blonde (or you're like me and you have been pretending to be blonde for your whole life, which means regular trips to the salon), you will seriously appreciate Stacy's talents. She knows how to make blonde hair sing--I love cool, ashy-toned Scandinavian blonde hair, and she does it perfectly every time I'm in--so much so that the ladies on SAS have mistaken me for one of their brethren and have spoken Swedish to me before!! The other thing that I LOVE LOVE LOVE about Stacy is that she is genuinely committed to furthering her education about color and styling. She is completely on top of the latest trends, techniques and processes, and the best part of everything is that she is FAST. I am talking in and out in an hour-and-a-half, max. Every time we do something a little different, and every time is more amazing and fun than the last. She's chatty and fun, down to earth and interesting, and most importantly she listens and has great suggestions about new things that might work, or cool things to try. I have moved around to a lot of salons and don't live in Chicago anymore, so I now time my trips back there to fit around when i can get in with Stacy.The vibe of the salon is always busy and fun, and everyone in it is cute, friendly and helpful. A bonus is that they sell Bare Escentuals makeup, which I use a bit of so I always pick up a lipgloss or eyelid primer on my way out and it saves me a trip to the Nordstrom or Bloomies counter...You should really check it out. read more

I came here after seeing Emma noted as one of the best colorists for the "not so blonde" in Chicago Magazine. I am SUPER wary of anyone new touching my hair, especially after a disastrous incident in college. Emma did a great job of getting my color to where I wanted it and the cut was great as well. read more

I followed Amy from her days at Salon 1800 and completely trust her and her staff with my hair. I can honestly say I feel 100% comfortable going in to my appt. without much of a plan and saying, "do something fun and fresh" and walk out with a FABULOUS cut. Of my other friends who go there, not too uncommon for them to receive compliments on their hair either. To be honest, I won't refer people anywhere else but Swerve. read more

It was a Monday and I was having a bad hair day. A REALLY bad hair day. That night, I was attending a special dinner and wanted to look my best. My hair desperately needed some professional help. But I'd forgotten that many salons are closed on Mondays, including the one that I usually visit. As I walked down Wells Street and glanced in shuttered windows, I was beginning to panic. And then (cue the angels singing) I saw the Swerve sign. The salon door was open (Hooray!) and up a flight of stairs was Corrie, a pleasant receptionist, who told me that there was a stylist available. Corrie offered me a fresh, hot cup of coffee and introduced me to Jennifer, my stylist. Jennifer has thick, wavy hair, like mine. She had no problem transforming my wild do into a beautiful, silky straight look that made me feel like a million bucks. The salon is in a clean, contemporary loft space and the atmosphere is warm and friendly. My appointment took less than an hour and was $45. A cut and style is $67. I liked the results of the blow-out so much that I returned for a cut and style the next week. Jennifer gave my hair a new, better shape and I think she's converted me into a new regular Swerve client. Thanks Swerve! read more

Pricy, very clean and very trendy, great highlights by courtney. A little too snobby for my low-profile kinda life...If you're into fashion, you'll like it! It's not the creme of the creme, but they do a good job so I go back for the convenience of having it at a walking distance. If they would only get rid of the attitude of I'm so busy, important, knowledgeable... Sorry guys, I speak my mind. read more

Just had my first appointment at Swerve after moving to Chicago from CA, and was VERY impressed. I had Jen, and I felt comfortable with her right away. She made sure to check with me about my usual hair routine, etc. I had actually never had highlights before (if you can believe it) and Jen suggested that I do a minimal amount around my face. I was really thankful that she took my previous experience into consideration, and I walked out with a great cut and beautiful, natural looking color for just over $100. I thought the receptionist was a little cold, but hang in there, the stylists (especially Jen) are wonderful! read more

Rebecca does an AMAZING job on my unruly dark hair. She's gotten me to a BRIGHT red and maintained the integrity of my hair. Ask for Rebecca !!! read more

I recently found out about Swerve thru a friend and went for a cut and gloss from Emma. I am so picky and wary about new stylists and took a while to find a place after moving here and this was such a gift. Emma did an amazing job, answering questions thoroughly, asking good questions about what I liked/didn't like, wanted/didn't want, etc to really get a feel for what was right for me. It's a relaxed environment and nice, fun girls and I left with shining, flowing, gorgeous hair exactly as I wanted. I can't wait to go back!! read more

I am concerned. For the second time in a row the cashier REFUSED to give me a receipt for the cash payment I made for services. Both times I asked for a receipt from the same man and he refused. This time he waved the cash at me as if to say I was being dismissed ! What a message that was being sent. read more

GIO (hair stylist) is awesome at highlights. 116 for full high-lights that are AMAZING! Love this place and the service. Complimentary wine as well! read more

Megan is Fantastic. Only problem is she is hard to get into! It is also really hard to get a coloring appointment after work. I'd give Megan 5 stars, Salon 3 stars. The salon is not extremely friendly, however they do offer you wine at your appointments- yes! Oh and one more thing, no gratuities on your credit card! Eekk! read more

Gio was awesome! Love my haircut, and he was really nice and friendly. Took his time to do it correctly. Definitely going back! Thanks Gio! read more

Went to Swerve for the Mother's Day facial special. It was heavenly! I am not a spring chicken but my skin looked like a teenager. Tristan is amazing! Thanks, Swerve, for a wonderful experience!! Included was a hair wash and blow out, also impressive!! read more

I usually head back to the burbs for a haircut as a) its cheaper and b) i've gone there since freaking high school and can't break up with my hair dresser! So of course I needed a last minute haircut and couldn't afford the time to make it all the way back to the burbs. A friend told me about Swerve. So, I booked an appt with Emma. Emma was super friendly and really pays attention to what you ask for. I brought a picture of a haircut in and she helped me analyze it and asked me questions to customize it to my own style. She does an amazing job with cutting and styling. The only downside is the amount of product they put in your hair (i think i counted at least 4). They also push these products on your way out, which I am a sucker for so I bought two. I spent about 55 on the cut + tip. I suppose for a city cut thats a great price. I like the new do and I will be going back! Oh and p.s. they do FREE bang trims/face framing! The place is a bit on the pricey side but that is a nice perk (Partial highlights start at 91). read more

Had my friend refer me to this salon and recommended Amanda. Made an appointment and couldn't be any more impressed. I went in with hair that was a hot mess due to always chasing around a toddler and work. It's hard to get 3 solid hours to myself. I showed Amanda a couple ideas of what I wanted and she nailed it. Cut and color was absolutely amazing! I will definitely be doing a follow up appt when it is necessary. Until then go and check out this salon and see Amanda! read more

So happy to have found this salon! Super clean, professional and friendly. I am so thrilled with my stylist, Amanda, and will not go to anyone else. She listens to what I'm asking for, makes suggestions and is very easy to talk to. Ask for Amanda! read more

I've been there a couple of months ago, and I wasn't impressed at all with the result, keeping in mind their prices. Well, maybe it just didn't work for me, it happens. read more

I found Jenn from her great reviews on Yelp, and I've been to her twice now: once for a partial highlight and once for a full highlight, cut and style. I am so picky about my blonde, and she colors it perfectly! I loved my cut and style too. She's also really funny and just enjoyable to hang out with while you're getting your hair done! I would definitely recommend her to any blondes that are looking for great color in Chicago-for the quality I think her prices are very good. She's always busy with all of her clients but never makes you feel like she's rushing or in a hurry which I really appreciate. Go see her, your hair will look fabulous! read more

So happy with my haircut! I was looking for a salon in Chicago that offered top services but wouldn't put a dent in my wallet. I came across this place through online searching for a place close to where I live. This little gem was right around the corner from me! I read all of the great reviews from other happy clients and I was confident that I wouldn't be disappointed so I scheduled an appointment for the next day. The staff is very friendly and the salon is so clean and modern. My stylist was Caitlin and she was energetic and conversational- Not to mention she gave an amazing condition to my hair that was so relaxing I didn't want it to end. I must have taken off at least 3 inches from my super long hair but the layers were cut to perfection and I can honestly say that I haven't been this satisfied with my haircut in years. Can't wait to go back! read more

I have found my forever salon. Not only do the girls who have done my hair do an amazing job (Amy and Laura) but the staff is friendly and I always feel welcome. I am never scared to refer people to go there cause I know they will love it. I already have many friends there now and they all have loved the experience and have stayed forever customers. I love the relaxing environment and the products they have in the store. I also love the fact that my hair is naturally BLACK and Laura is able to get it a deep blond without over drying. I will never go to anyone else again. read more

Melissa at Swerve is the best! She LISTENS and explains what she's doing with your hair and why. She encourages you to try new styles but isn't pushy if you're not sure. The glass of wine at the door doesn't hurt either! I wish they carried other products (redken isn't my thing)... but other than that, its perfect! Priced right and good location. The atmosphere is both modern and loft-y but still cozy and friendly. I've never tried any of their other services, but they always have some great promos going on. read more

I just needed to share the wonderful experience I had at Swerve Salon in Old Town. What a great salon! Joe cut and colored my hair and it turned out perfect! I love what he did. To try out a new stylist with a cut and color - it can be very unpredictable! But I must say, Joe really impressed me. Not to mention, he is the funniest guy and really, really detailed and particular when dealing with my hair. These two qualities are something I need in someone who is doing my hair. I love great personalities and this salon is filled with them! Brie, the manager, is the funniest gal this side of the Mississippi and she always immediately takes care of you. The receptionist, Ally, is such a sweetheart, too. Everyone there is pretty cool and that helps the experience. The bonus is that they are EXCELLENT with hair! I love them! I already booked my next appt. read more

I have gone to Stacy since she was at her last salon about 3 years ago and was referred to her by a friend that has gone to her for 5 years! Great atmosphere in the new digs and a fun enjoyable staff. Keep up the good work! read more

Absolutely love! I get my hair cut and colored by Amy and I have never been disappointed. No matter what color I want, Amy somehow always perfects it, even while working around my hair dye allergy. I've gone from brown, to blonde, to auburn, and every time, my hair comes out exactly how I wanted it. They also give you a nice scalp massage when they wash your hair which is a nice little bonus. Amy's always great when recommending products for me, and instead of blindly trying to make a sale, she tailors the products to my particular hair so it stays healthy and vibrant between cuts/colors. It can be a bit pricy, but in my opinion it is 100% worth it. I'd rather my cut/color be a little more expensive and look amazing than it be cheap and look mediocre. Everyone that works at Swerve Salon is extremely friendly and helpful and I have always had a positive experience. The only downside is that you can only tip in cash. There is a Chase bank a couple blocks down, and if I forgot cash, they've always been nice and let me run down to the ATM after my appointment. Plus, they said they're working on getting their own ATM machine in the salon, so fingers crossed! read more

Two words: Mallory Schmitt! This girl is the reason I love Swerve. I stumbled upon her over 3 years ago and I've kept her ever since. One of my favorite things about her is that she knows how to cut CURLY HAIR. I have that hair that I like to wear curly and straight - and she knows how to cut it. Once upon a time I had long hair, no hair dresser in my past would ever cut it - they kept telling me I'd look like a mushroom...bla bla ba. Well Mallory encouraged me to do it, and once I got the courage to let her - gave me an adorable bob. For a year now I've been stopped by random people asking if they could please take a photo of the back of my head to show their hairdresser. Another favorite thing: she's honest. If she thinks something won't look good, she'll tell you, and that is something I greatly appreciate. She's the best! read more

I was referred by several friends to Dana for a haircut. She is very welcoming and makes you feel at ease, which is nice when you are a little nervous about getting a haircut from someone new. She takes her time to consult with what you are exactly looking to have done throughout the entire process. She makes sure to ask how much of your hair you are comfortable with having cut throughout the duration of your visit. She explains every product she uses on from shampoo and conditioner to styling products. I had only an inch cut with layers added and I am obsessed with the final result! The services of the salon are pricey but not shocking due to the location. I was pleasantly surprised to find out at checkout that I would have 25% off of the cut and any products for being a first-time client. They also gifted a goody bag with product samples and more coupons! The only downside to my visit would be that the salon is not closer to my house, however, it is not a far trip from school or work. read more

If you want amazing color go to Courtney...she goes above and beyond!

I love coming to this Salon. Staff is super friendly and I have never been disappointed with any services they provide. I get my hair cut and colored, eyebrows waxed and tinted, and eyelashes lifted -they offer it all! I have even had my makeup done here and super pleased. I always schedule plans after my hair appointments because my hair looks so fabulous. I'm not wasting a good hair day to sit at home after! . Swerve also has great products. My hair has never been healthier. I can't recommend this place enough, great environment, great service, friendly staff, and they offer wine! Nothing like getting pampered while you sit back and relax while sipping on vino! read more

Nicole did a good and fast job on my cut. She's personable and goes with what you want. I think these guys are a great price for a wash, cut, and style (I haven't gotten color here) and are located very close to me, which does factor into this rating. I'd give them 5 if the hair wash experience gave me more of a massage - I love salons that do that. read more

I love swerve. In fact, I go to half an hour out of my neighborhood to make sure I get here. The salon itself is cute, carries plenty of hair and makeup products, and I'm always met graciously and professionally and offered A beverage or whatever else I need the entire time that I'm there. But the best part about swerve is my stylist, Joe. He not only does my complicated color, but also give me my fabulous haircut. It's wonderful to just be able to go to one person, discuss what you need, and have it executed perfectly. My hair is chemically straightened as well as colored and other people have tried without success to brighten it up, but Joe has come up with the perfect combination of attractive and soft. He listens to what I want, but isn't afraid to give suggestions when asked. I can't Sanna about how great he and swerve are! read more

The place is so trendy. Love the loft-like feel. Cute little Dana did my color and what a great job she did. She took her time and made sure SHE was satisfied as well as me. read more

I HIGHLY recommend Rebecca. I followed her to Swerve salon from Jonathon Brietung salon. I've been with her for a couple months now and always had a good experience with her! Rebecca is friendly and sweet and knows hair and hair products well! She gets 2 thumbs up! read more

Easily located in Old Town (next to Pour House). Staff is super nice and the place is very clean. Mandi is the best! Great blonde hi-lights and I am super picky (as most blondes are) read more

Been coming here for almost half a year now and I couldn't be happier with this place! I highly recommend Kayla, she is by far the most helpful, the most consistent, and most professional hair stylist I've ever had. Can't go wrong with this place and their staff. read more

I was looking for a last minute blow out before a game with my professional dance team and mandi did a great job! She was quick and to the point and put some toner on my dull locks to brighten them up for the performance! Thanks Mandi! read more

Laura has been doing my cut and color at Swerve since it opened. Where do I begin? The moment you walk through the doors, you are treated to a wonderful salon experience. From the initial greeting, to hanging up your coat, to offering you a beverage (there's even wine!!), you will instantly feel the warm hospitality. Now to the most important part, my hair. Laura is an extraordinary hair stylist. For over a decade she has been my hair guru. As a blonde (thanks to Laura), I receive compliments all the time about my color. I am the pickiest person I know, and she patiently tolerates my attention to detail every single time. I will never go anywhere else. I can't leave this review without mentioning the awesome merch they carry. From adorable tees, to fashionable accessories, this salon truly has it all. LOVE me some Swerve Salon!! read more