14 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles Tutorials

The fishtail braid, with its intricate woven appearance, is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that can elevate any look from casual chic to sophisticated glamour. It offers a unique texture that sets it apart from traditional braids, making it a favorite for those seeking a stylish yet approachable hairdo. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed bohemian vibe or a polished red-carpet-ready style, the fishtail braid can be adapted to suit every occasion and hair type. Dive into our curated list of 14 stunning fishtail braid variations, each designed to inspire your next beautiful hair transformation and guide you through achieving these gorgeous looks with ease.

The Classic Effortless Fishtail

This is the foundational fishtail braid, a beautiful and accessible style for beginners. It involves splitting hair into two sections and alternately pulling small strands from the outer edge of one section across to the inner edge of the other. The resulting ‘fish bone’ pattern is elegant yet simple enough for daily wear. It’s perfect for casual outings, a day at the office, or even a relaxed brunch with friends, offering a chic look without much fuss.

Chic Side-Swept Fishtail

Embrace a touch of asymmetry with the chic side-swept fishtail braid. This style involves gathering all your hair to one side before creating the fishtail, resulting in a dramatic and romantic drape over one shoulder. It’s an excellent choice for showing off hair length and adding a sophisticated flair to any outfit. Ideal for date nights, semi-formal events, or when you want to make a subtle yet elegant statement.

Double Fishtail Pigtails

Double the braids, double the fun! This playful and youthful style involves creating two symmetrical fishtail braids, one on each side of the head. It’s a fantastic option for adding a touch of whimsy and charm to your look. Perfect for music festivals, casual weekend adventures, or a fun day out, these pigtails are both practical and incredibly stylish, keeping hair neatly in place while looking adorable.

Half-Up Fishtail Crown

Combine elegance with a touch of bohemian grace using the half-up fishtail crown. This style incorporates a fishtail braid across the crown, allowing the rest of your hair to flow freely. It’s an exquisite choice for adding intricate detail to loose hair without fully committing to an updo. This look is perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want a refined yet ethereal presence.

Messy Bohemian Fishtail

Embrace your inner free spirit with the messy bohemian fishtail. This style champions a relaxed, undone aesthetic, where the braid is intentionally loosened and perhaps even ‘pancaked’ for maximum volume and texture. It exudes an effortless charm that’s perfect for festivals, beach days, or any casual occasion where a laid-back yet chic look is desired. The slightly tousled finish gives it an invitingly soft appeal.

Sleek Fishtail Ponytail

For a polished and sophisticated statement, the sleek fishtail ponytail is your go-to. This style combines the clean lines of a high ponytail with the intricate beauty of a fishtail braid. It’s perfect for professional settings, evening events, or when you want a neat yet striking hairstyle. The smooth roots and tightly woven braid create a powerful, confident look that commands attention.

Fishtail Braid with Ribbon Weave

Add a touch of color and personality to your fishtail braid by weaving in a ribbon. This creative embellishment transforms a simple braid into a personalized accessory, allowing you to match your hair to your outfit or mood. It’s a fantastic way to elevate a festive look, celebrate a special occasion, or simply express your unique style. Choose a contrasting or complementary ribbon for a stunning effect.

French Fishtail Braid

The French fishtail braid takes the classic technique and starts it directly from the crown of your head, incorporating new sections of hair as you braid down. This creates a beautifully sculpted and integrated look that lies flat against the scalp. It’s a sophisticated and secure style, ideal for keeping hair completely off the face and neck, making it perfect for active days, professional events, or an elegant evening out.

Dutch Fishtail (Inverted Fishtail)

The Dutch fishtail, also known as an inverted fishtail, creates a stunning 3D effect where the braid stands proud on top of the hair. Instead of weaving strands under, you weave them over, making the fishtail pop. This bold and visually striking style is a fantastic choice for those who want their braid to be the focal point of their hairstyle. It’s great for adding drama to an updo or making a statement with a single long braid.

Fishtail Braid Updo

Transform the fishtail braid into an elegant updo, perfect for formal occasions like weddings, proms, or galas. This style typically involves braiding one or more fishtails and then artfully pinning them into a sophisticated bun or chignon at the nape of the neck or crown. It’s a timeless and refined choice that offers intricate detail and keeps every strand perfectly in place, exuding grace and poise.

Micro Fishtail Accents

Integrate subtle beauty into your everyday look with micro fishtail accents. This technique involves creating one or more tiny fishtail braids within a larger hairstyle, such as loose waves or a ponytail. These delicate braids add unexpected texture and visual interest without overwhelming the overall style. They are perfect for a subtle touch of bohemian charm or a unique detail that sets your hairstyle apart.

Half-Up, Half-Down Fishtail

Achieve the best of both worlds with a half-up, half-down fishtail. This popular style involves taking the top section of your hair and braiding it into a fishtail, while the lower section remains loose and flowing. It’s a versatile choice that offers both elegance and comfort, perfect for showing off long hair while keeping some strands neatly pulled back. Ideal for both casual day-to-day wear and slightly dressier occasions.

Fishtail Braid Headband

Frame your face beautifully with a fishtail braid headband. This creative style involves braiding a section of hair from one side of your head across the top, securing it behind the opposite ear to form a natural headband. It’s an elegant and practical way to keep hair out of your face while adding a charming detail. This look is perfect for showcasing facial features and works wonderfully for various lengths and occasions.

High Fishtail Braid

Make a bold statement with a high fishtail braid, a dramatic and stylish alternative to the classic high ponytail. This look involves gathering all your hair into a high ponytail first, then meticulously braiding it into a tight fishtail. It creates an elongated, striking silhouette that is both powerful and chic. Perfect for active wear, fashion-forward events, or when you simply want to stand out from the crowd with a sophisticated edge.

From the everyday elegance of the classic fishtail to the dramatic flair of a high fishtail braid, these 14 styles offer a myriad of ways to explore and express your personal style. Each variation provides a unique twist on this beloved braiding technique, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal. We hope these tutorials inspire you to experiment and discover the perfect fishtail braid to complement your next outfit or special occasion. With a little practice, you’ll be weaving these intricate patterns like a pro, adding a touch of handmade beauty to your hair repertoire.