Fishtail braids are a classic and trendy hairstyle that can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions. They may look intricate, but once you get the hang of it, they’re simple and fun to create. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to achieve a beautiful fishtail braid, whether you’re a beginner or a hairstyling pro.
What You Need to Get Started
Before starting, gather the following tools:
- A hairbrush or wide-tooth comb
- A hair tie or elastic band
- Optional: Styling products like texturizing spray or dry shampoo for added grip
- Optional: Bobby pins for securing any loose strands
Having these items ready will make the process smoother and help you achieve a polished look.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Detangle Your Hair
Brush or comb your hair thoroughly to remove any knots or tangles. Smooth, tangle-free hair is easier to work with and will create a cleaner fishtail braid.
Add Texture (Optional)
If your hair is silky or freshly washed, it may be a bit too slippery for braiding. Adding a texturizing spray or dry shampoo will give it some grit and make the braid more secure. This step is especially helpful if you have fine hair.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
To begin the braid, divide your hair into two even sections. Unlike traditional braids that require three sections, fishtail braids use only two. Hold one section in each hand.
Step 3: Start the Fishtail Braid
Take a Small Strand
From the outside of the right section, take a small strand of hair (about ¼ inch wide) and cross it over to the left section. The smaller the strand, the more intricate and detailed the braid will look.
Repeat on the Left Side
Next, take a small strand from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Always pull the strands tightly to keep the braid neat.
Continue Alternating
Continue alternating sides, pulling small strands of hair from each section and crossing them over to the opposite section. Make sure to pull the braid tight as you go to avoid it becoming loose.
Tip for Beginners
If you’re new to fishtail braiding, you might find it easier to work with larger sections of hair until you get comfortable with the technique. As you practice, you can start working with smaller strands to create a more intricate braid.
Step 4: Secure the Braid
Once you’ve braided all the way to the ends of your hair, secure the braid with a small elastic band. If you want a polished look, choose a clear or neutral-colored band. For a more relaxed, boho style, you can use a decorative tie.
Step 5: Loosen the Braid for Volume
For a fuller, more textured look, gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it slightly. This will give the fishtail braid a more voluminous and relaxed appearance, perfect for a casual day out or a beachy vibe.
Pro Tip:
Loosening the braid adds softness and dimension, especially if you’re aiming for a laid-back, romantic style. Just be careful not to pull too hard, as this could cause the braid to unravel.
Step 6: Finish the Look
To finish the look, you can add some hair spray to hold the braid in place. If you have flyaways or shorter layers, use bobby pins to tuck them into the braid for a cleaner appearance.
Optional Accessories
You can also accessorize your fishtail braid with decorative clips, flowers, or ribbons for a more customized and stylish look. These add-ons can take your braid from casual to formal with minimal effort.
Variations of the Fishtail Braid
Once you’ve mastered the basic fishtail braid, you can try different variations to change up the style:
1. Side Fishtail Braid
To create a side fishtail braid, follow the same steps but start the braid over one shoulder. This style is great for a casual, asymmetrical look.
2. Half-Up Fishtail Braid
For a half-up style, gather the top half of your hair and fishtail braid just that section. This variation combines the elegance of a fishtail with the simplicity of a half-up style.
3. Messy Fishtail Braid
For a more bohemian, messy look, start with loose, textured hair, and as you braid, keep the tension light. Loosen the braid even more at the end to create a carefree, undone style.
See Also: How To Do Retro Waves For Short Hair
Troubleshooting Common Fishtail Braid Problems
Even with practice, there may be times when your fishtail braid doesn’t turn out as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Problem: The Braid Looks Too Loose
Solution: Pull the braid tighter as you go, and make sure you’re taking small enough sections of hair from each side.
Problem: The Braid is Too Tight and Looks Stiff
Solution: Gently pull the sides of the braid to loosen it. You can also start with slightly looser tension while braiding.
Problem: The Braid Unravels at the Bottom
Solution: Use a stronger or more secure hair tie to keep the braid from unraveling. You can also tie off the braid a little higher up and leave the ends loose.
Why Choose a Fishtail Braid?
Fishtail braids are versatile, making them a go-to hairstyle for various occasions. They can be worn as a casual day look or styled for more formal events. Here are some reasons to try a fishtail braid:
- Effortlessly Stylish: A fishtail braid looks more intricate than a regular braid, but it’s just as easy to create once you get the hang of it.
- Works on All Hair Types: Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, a fishtail braid can work for you.
- Protective Style: Braiding your hair can protect it from damage, especially if you’re looking to reduce heat styling.
Tips for Long-Lasting Braids
- If you want your fishtail braid to last all day, make sure your hair is not too freshly washed, as clean hair can be slippery. Day-old hair tends to hold styles better.
- Use styling products like mousse, pomade, or texturizing spray to add grip and hold.
- For an extra-secure braid, you can use bobby pins to hold the braid in place or to tuck in any loose strands.
Conclusion
A fishtail braid is the perfect hairstyle for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, while still being easy to achieve. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the fishtail braid and try out different variations to suit any occasion. So grab your hairbrush, follow these steps, and start braiding!