20 Fishtail Braid Styles (Easier Than They Look!)

The Simple Secret: How to Fishtail Braid 101

Before we explore the styles, let’s master the foundation. Unlike a traditional three-strand braid, a fishtail is made with just two sections. The magic happens by taking small, thin pieces from the outside of each section and crossing them over to the inside of the opposite section.

Step-by-Step: Start with brushed hair. Split all your hair into two equal sections. Hold one section in each hand. Step 1: With your right hand, pick up a thin strand from the outside of the left section. Step 2: Cross that thin strand over to the inside of the right section, adding it to that group. Switch hands. Step 3: Now, with your left hand, pick up a thin strand from the outside of the right section. Step 4: Cross it over to the inside of the left section. Repeat! The key is using small, consistent pieces and keeping tension even. That’s it—you’re fishtail braiding!

Everyday Casual & Effortlessly Cool Styles

These looks are perfect for running errands, heading to work, or a casual lunch with friends. They add a touch of effortful elegance to your everyday vibe with minimal actual effort.

1. The Classic Low Fishtail: The perfect starting point. Braid a standard fishtail down the back of your head, keeping it centered or slightly over one shoulder. It’s romantic, soft, and goes with everything.

2. Side-Swept Fishtail: Gather all your hair to one side and fishtail braid it. This style is incredibly flattering and adds a boho, relaxed feel to any outfit.

3. Fishtail Pigtails: Channel playful vibes by creating two low or mid-height fishtail braids. Loosen them gently for a wider, more textured look.

4. Half-Up Fishtail Crown: Take a section of hair from each temple, bring it to the back of your head, and fishtail just that section. Secure it for a quick, princess-like detail.

5. Tousled Fishtail Ponytail: Create a high or low ponytail, then fishtail just the tail. It instantly elevates a simple ponytail into something special.

Boho-Chic & Festival-Ready Braids

When you want to embrace your inner free spirit, these woven styles are your best friend. They’re all about texture, volume, and a beautifully undone finish.

6. The Fishtail Crown (Headband Braid): Starting above one ear, braid a fishtail along your hairline, adding in hair as you go (like a French braid). Continue it around your head and pin it in place above the opposite ear.

7. Messy Fishtail Bun: Create a low fishtail braid, but don’t pull it tight. Gently tug on the loops to widen it, then wrap it into a loose, textured bun at your nape.

8. Double Fishtail Crown: Create two smaller fishtail braids (one from each side) and cross them over the top of your head like a crown, pinning them securely for a intricate, festival-perfect look.

9. Fishtail with Scarf Weaved In: Incorporate a thin, colorful scarf into your braid. Either tie it to the base of your ponytail before braiding or use it as one of the two initial sections for a pop of color.

10. Boho Fishtail Updo: Create a loose, low side fishtail. Instead of securing the end, twist and pin the braid into a messy, low knot or bun at your nape, allowing face-framing pieces to escape.

Elegant & Formal Updo Inspirations

Yes, the fishtail can be red-carpet ready! These styles prove that a braid can be the centerpiece of an elegant, sophisticated look perfect for weddings, galas, or a fancy date night.

11. The Fishtail Waterfall Braid: This ethereal style involves dropping sections as you braid, creating a cascading effect. It works beautifully as a side style or incorporated into an updo.

12. Wrapped Fishtail Bun: Create a sleek, low fishtail. Wrap it around its base to form a perfect, coiled bun. Secure with pins. This style is clean, polished, and stunningly geometric.

13. Fishtail-Inside-Out (Dutch Fishtail): Braid a fishtail, but take the small sections under instead of over. This creates a beautiful, raised braid that stands out dramatically.

14. Elegant Side Fishtail Updo: Braid a large side fishtail. Then, instead of leaving it down, twist and pin it into an elegant, low side bun or knot, tucking the end under.

15. Fishtail Accent in a Sleek Bun: Create a small, delicate fishtail braid from your temple back. Wrap it around the base of a classic, sleek high bun for a stunning, detailed accent.

Fun, Creative & Unexpected Twists

Ready to play? These styles mix techniques, add accessories, or use the fishtail in unconventional ways for a truly unique and head-turning look.

16. The Mermaid Tail (Fishtail with a Twist): Start with a traditional three-strand braid for a few inches, then seamlessly transition into a fishtail for the length. It’s a beautiful hybrid style.

17. Micro Fishtail Accents: Create a very thin, delicate fishtail braid (or two) from your hairline. Incorporate them into a larger hairstyle, like a ponytail or loose waves, for subtle detail.

18. Fishtail Braid with Beads or Charms: As you braid, thread small beads or charms onto the thin pieces you’re crossing over. This creates a personalized, jewelry-adorned braid.

19. Double-Duty Braid: Fishtail into a Regular Braid: Start with a fishtail at the crown, then after a few inches, combine the two sections and finish with a classic three-strand braid. A fun way to practice texture mixing.

20. The “Halo” or 360-Degree Fishtail: An advanced but stunning challenge. Create a continuous fishtail that wraps all the way around your head like a halo. It’s often easier to start with a high ponytail as the base.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Fishtail Every Time

Texture is Your Friend: Slightly second-day or texturized hair holds a fishtail better than freshly washed, slippery hair. Use a dry shampoo or texturizing spray for grip.

Loosen Up for Volume: Once your braid is secured, gently pull on the outer loops of the braid to widen and soften it. This creates that coveted, effortless, full look.

Practice Makes Progress: Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt feels clunky. Practice on a friend, a mannequin, or even a piece of yarn. The muscle memory will click!

Small Sections are Key: The smaller and more consistent the strands you cross over, the more intricate and “fishtail-like” your braid will appear.

Secure It Well: Use a small, clear elastic or a color-matched tie to secure the end. For a seamless finish, you can take a tiny piece of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic, securing it with a bobby pin underneath.

Ready, Set, Braid!

As you can see, the fishtail braid is a gateway to a world of beautiful hairstyles. It’s not a mysterious talent but a simple, repetitive technique that, once mastered, unlocks endless creativity. Start with the classic low braid, celebrate the small victories, and soon you’ll be incorporating fishtails into your everyday and special-occasion looks with ease.

The most important tip? Have fun with it. Pull your braid apart, add accessories, mix it with other styles. Your hair is your canvas, and the fishtail is a wonderfully versatile brush. Which of these 20 styles will you try first?