21 Cute Fishtail Braid Hairstyles to Try
The fishtail braid looks a lot more complicated than it actually is. Instead of the usual three strand pattern, it uses just two sections crossed over each other in small pieces, creating a fine, woven texture that looks detailed and intentional. Once you get the hang of it, this braid works for everything from a quick school run to a full bridal look. Here are 21 fishtail braid hairstyles worth trying right now.
What Makes a Fishtail Braid Different
A regular braid uses three strands crossed in a simple pattern, while a fishtail only uses two. Small sections are pulled from the outer edge of each side and crossed into the opposite section, repeating down the length of the hair. The result is a tighter, more textured weave that looks far more intricate than a standard braid, even though the technique itself is fairly simple once practiced a few times.
Tips Before You Start Braiding
A few basics make the process smoother, especially if you are still learning.
Work with slightly dry or day old hair rather than freshly washed hair, since a bit of natural texture gives the braid more grip. Keep the sections you pull small and even, since large sections make the braid look chunky rather than fine and woven. A bit of texturizing spray or dry shampoo before starting helps hair hold its shape better throughout the day. Practice on a loose, low braid first before trying tighter or more elevated versions.
Classic Fishtail Braid Styles
1. Traditional Fishtail Braid
A single fishtail running straight down the back is the most classic version and works beautifully on its own with no extra styling needed.
2. Side Fishtail Braid
Pulled over one shoulder, this version puts the detailed weave front and center, which makes it a popular choice for photos and events.
3. Loose Fishtail Braid
Gently pulling apart the sections of a finished braid creates a fuller, more relaxed look that feels less formal than a tight, neat weave.
4. Tight Fishtail Braid
Keeping every section small and pulled firmly creates a sleek, polished braid that holds its shape well through a long day.
Half Up Fishtail Styles
5. Half Up Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid running through just the top section of hair, left to fall into the rest, gives a casual yet styled everyday look.
6. Double Half Up Fishtail
Two smaller fishtail braids from each side meeting at the back create a slightly more detailed take on the half up style.
7. Fishtail Crown Braid
Braided from both sides and pinned across the top of the head, this style creates a soft, crown like effect for a more special occasion.
Fishtail Braids With Bangs and Layers
8. Fishtail Braid With Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs left loose in front while the rest of the hair is braided back creates a soft, face framing contrast against the tighter weave.
9. Fishtail Braid With Face Framing Pieces
Leaving a few loose pieces out around the face softens the overall look and keeps the braid from feeling too severe.
10. Fishtail Braid Over Layered Hair
Layers add extra texture to the braid itself, giving it a slightly more piecey, undone finish compared to blunt, one length hair.
Updo Fishtail Styles
11. Fishtail Braided Bun
A fishtail braid coiled into a bun at the base of the neck combines two techniques for a look that feels elevated without much extra effort.
12. Fishtail Braided Ponytail
Starting with a ponytail and braiding the length keeps hair off the face while still showing off the detailed weave.
13. Fishtail Updo
Multiple fishtail sections pinned up and around each other create a full, textured updo suited for weddings or formal events.
14. Low Fishtail Bun
A looser, lower version of the braided bun gives a softer, more romantic finish compared to a tight, high placement.
Double and Multiple Fishtail Styles
15. Double Fishtail Braids
Two fishtail braids, one on each side, offer a playful, youthful look that works well for casual days and festivals alike.
16. Fishtail Pigtails
Similar to double braids but styled higher and tighter, this version leans a bit more polished and put together.
17. Fishtail French Braid Combo
Starting with a French braid near the crown and finishing the length as a fishtail combines two textures into one detailed style.
18. Fishtail Braids With Beads
Small beads woven into the ends of double fishtail braids add a fun, decorative touch, especially for festivals or themed events.
Bridal and Special Occasion Fishtail Styles
19. Bridal Fishtail Braid
A neat, polished fishtail with soft face framing pieces left loose creates a romantic, timeless look for wedding day styling.
20. Fishtail Braid With Flowers
Small flowers tucked into the sections of a loose fishtail braid add a soft, bohemian touch perfect for outdoor events.
21. Fishtail Braid With Waves
Curling the ends of hair before braiding, or adding waves to the tail once the braid is finished, gives a fuller, more textured final look.
How to Make Your Fishtail Braid Last Longer
A light hold hairspray applied section by section as you braid helps keep flyaways down without stiffening the whole style. Sleeping with a loose fishtail braid overnight can also help preserve waves for the next day. For tighter, more formal versions, bobby pins hidden along the part line help keep everything secure through long events.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pulling sections that are too large is the most common issue, since it makes the braid look chunky rather than finely woven. Braiding too tightly from the very start can also cause the pattern to look uneven once it loosens slightly throughout the day. It helps to braid with slightly less tension near the top and let the braid naturally tighten as you work down the length.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fishtail braid hard to learn? It looks more complicated than it is. Once you understand that it only uses two sections instead of three, most people pick it up after a few practice tries.
Does a fishtail braid work on short hair? Yes, though shoulder length hair or longer tends to give the cleanest result, since there needs to be enough length to see the woven pattern clearly.
How long does a fishtail braid usually last? With a bit of hairspray or texturizing product, a fishtail braid can easily last a full day, and a looser version can even hold up overnight.
Can I do a fishtail braid on my own hair? Yes, though a side fishtail is usually easier to manage on yourself compared to a straight back braid, since you can see and control the sections more easily.
Final Thoughts
The fishtail braid earns its popularity because it looks intricate while actually being fairly approachable once you practice the technique a few times. From a simple everyday version to a full bridal updo, there is a style on this list for nearly every occasion and hair length. Pick a few favorites, practice the pattern on a low key day, and you will have a new go to style ready whenever you want it.
