Fishtail Braid: 33+ Versatile Braiding Styles to Fall in Love With

Dive into the world of braiding and discover how to reinterpret the classic fishtail braid. Find inspiration and transform your mane into an elegant, playful masterpiece.

Table of content

• Side Fishtail Braid
• Fishtail Braid with an Extra Twist
• Fishtail Braid with Flowers
• Loose Fishtail Braid

Side Fishtail Braid

A side fishtail braid combines elegance with a touch of casualness, making it the perfect style for everyday wear as well as special occasions. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner—this simple guide will have you mastering this look in no time. Prepare your hair by dividing it into two equally thick sections, ideally over your shoulder, so you can easily reach everything. Now, alternate moving small strands from the outside of one section to the inside of the other. Tip: hair that is longer than shoulder length and not freshly washed is easier to braid, giving your fishtail braid better hold. And don’t panic: with each repetition, your fingers will slide more skillfully through your mane, and soon you'll proudly showcase your self-braided side fishtail braid!

Fishtail Braid with an Extra Twist

Are you ready for a little magic in your daily hair routine? The fishtail braid with an extra twist adds something special to your braiding skills and is so uncomplicated! Using the twisting technique, which is also commonly used with a ponytail or bun, you can create this dreamy variation. After tying a loose ponytail, open a small passage above the hair tie. Pull the ponytail through here and voilà – the foundation for your fishtail braid with the wonderful twist is set. Then braid your hair in the typical style and enjoy the admiring glance in the mirror. For a hold that lasts through hectic days, use some hairspray or styling mousse to finish it off. Treat yourself to this feminine look that brings freshness to the hair styling game.

Fishtail Braid with Flowers

Enchant your hairstyle with a floral accent and turn your fishtail braid into a romantic masterpiece. After braiding the plait, incorporate fresh or artificial flowers for a playful and feminine look. You can use small flower clips or gently weave delicate flower stems into the strands. This not only adds festivity but also provides a touch of nature, perfect for summer events or even as a bridal hairstyle. Make sure that the flowers match the color of your hair and the occasion so that your hairstyle becomes a true eye-catcher.

Loose Fishtail Braid

Imagine walking along the beach on a sunny day with your hair blowing in the wind – that's the relaxed vibe of the loose fishtail braid. Start by giving your hair texture and volume with a volumizing mousse, then use your skillful hands to create a casually braided masterpiece. Finally, gently pull the braid apart to give it a perfectly laid-back look. Dare to rock this easy style as a wedding hairstyle – it adds a touch of boho chic to your aura that never goes out of style.

Volume and Texture for the Perfect Fishtail Braid

To give your fishtail braid the desired volume and correct texture, start with a primer for your hair. One way to gain more grip is to lightly tease the hair. Focus on the roots and carefully work your way down to the lengths. This gives your hair more lift and a fuller appearance, which is especially beneficial for fine hair. Additionally, you can use a hair cream or a volumizing powder to create extra texture. These products make braiding easier by reducing slippage and helping the sections stay in shape. However, remember to use the right amount of any product to avoid weighing down your hair.

Tips for Consistent Braiding and Secure Hold

When braiding a fishtail braid, it is important that the strands are even—this ensures a harmonious overall appearance. When you take a strand at the beginning of each braiding round, make sure it is about the same thickness as the previous one. This may take a little practice, but it is the only way you will achieve a consistent braid. For secure hold, it's also crucial not to let the strands get too loose while braiding. A tip is to braid a bit tighter at first and then gently loosen it once you're finished for a more relaxed look. You can finish your braid with a clear or color-coordinated hair tie and use a hair spray to keep everything in place.

Variations and Styling Ideas for the Fishtail Look

Once you've mastered the basic technique for the fishtail braid, try out variations to further personalize your look. For example, add a French braid technique by starting your fishtail braid at the crown of your head and working downwards. This gives your hairstyle an elegant touch. Or tie your braid into a cute fishtail "bubble braid" by placing small elastic bands along the braid at regular intervals and gently pulling apart the hair sections in between. For a touch of boho-chic, weave some thin hair ribbons or decorative threads into your braid, which adds a unique accent, especially for festive occasions.