Braided hairstyles are one of the best ways to elevate your look, and fishtail braids are one of the prettiest braids out there. Fishtail braids are so much easier than they look, and once you master the technique, you’ll be doing them all the time! They’re extremely versatile and can be worn for casual daily activities like going to work, coffee or brunch, or for special occasions like weddings or date nights. Whether you have short, medium or long hair, here are 12 fishtail braid hairstyles for all hair lengths!
What is a Fishtail Braid?
A fishtail braid is a popular braid variation that’s extremely chic and stylish. Similar to a French braid, a fishtail braid is easier to do because it divides the hair into two sections instead of three. A small piece of each section is passed over to the other section over and over until a braid is formed.
Fishtail braids look more complicated to create than they are, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to do them all the time! It’s a versatile hairstyle that can be worn casually or to a more formal event. The amount of hair you grab from each side as you’re braiding and the amount of tension you use can create notably different results. Looser pieces can make the braid look more edgy, while tighter pieces make you look more put together.
How To Do a Basic Fishtail Braid
How to Fishtail Braid – Beginner Friendly Hair Tutorial | Kayley Melissa
If you’re new to fishtail braids, this tutorial takes you through the process step by step. Start by grabbing the section of hair you want to fishtail and split it in half, holding one section in each hand. Grab a tiny subsection of hair from the outside of the ponytail in your right hand, cross it over top and add it to the section in your left hand. Repeat with a subsection from your left hand. Continue until you’ve reached the bottom and tie with a small elastic!
3 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles for Short Hair
Fishtail Braided Tutorial | Milabu
This tutorial gives you the step by step on how to create a beautiful fishtail up do. It’s the perfect updo for short hair, creating a gorgeous braided crown around your head. You can also add a hair accessory like she did to make it more romantic and whimsical. It’s the perfect hairstyle for a special occasion like a wedding or date night!
Fishtail Braid for Short Hair | Chloe Brown
Another way to do a fishtail braid is to braid a small section of your hair instead of braiding your whole mane. This works particularly well for short hair and adds some interest when you wear your hair down. She shows you how simple it is to make a big fishtail braid on short hair and shares her best tips and tricks along the way!
Bailey’s Mini Fishtail Braids | DIY Bandana Hairstyle for Short Hair | Cute Girls Hairstyles
It can be struggle to create cute braids with short hair, but this fishtail braid tutorial shows you exactly how to achieve the look – with a cute bandana to boot! She fills you in on tips and tricks for braiding short hair and all you need is a bandana to get this look!
3 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles for Medium Hair
How to Style a Fishtail Braid | A Beautiful Mess
If you’re looking for a straight to the point tutorial on how to do a fishtail braid, this is it! She creates a side fishtail braid and keeps it tight for a put together look. You’ll see that although the end result looks intricate, it’s easy if you follow along!
How to Fishtail Braid: Super Easy Tutorial | Meghan Rienks
This is a super simple tutorial that shows you how to do a fishtail braid. It’s easy to follow and she also offers recommendations for great hair products such as a heat resistant blow dry spray and a good hairspray to keep your braid in place all day, She starts off with a tight fishtail braid and shows you how to loosen it at the end for a more casual look!
Learn How to Fishtail Braid! For Beginners | Abby Smith
In this tutorial she shows you how to create two different fishtail braids – one to the side and one down the back of your head. The one to the side is a basic fishtail braid and the one to the back is a Dutch fishtail braid, which is a bit more intricate, but you’ll be fine if you follow her instructions! All you need is an elastic and bobby pins.
3 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles for Long Hair
Double Dutch Fishtail Braids | Missy Sue
This is such a chic and pretty hairstyle! She gives you the step by step on how to create double Dutch fishtail braids that you can wear to work, brunch with friends, or even a more formal event. You can rock this hairstyle all year round and dress it up or down for any occasion.
Dutch Fishtail Braid/ Plait Tutorial | Shonagh Scott
In this tutorial, she creates a one sided Dutch fishtail braid that looks completely gorgeous! She suggests doing this hairstyle on two day old hair, so it’s ideal for days you don’t have time to wash your hair, but still want something stylish. Follow her detailed steps to get this look at home!
Half-up Half-down Hairstyle | Fishtail into Pull Through Braid | Alex Gaboury
If you’re looking for something a little more complex, this hairstyle combines two types of braids for an intricate and beautiful end result. She explains each braid in detail each step of the way, so you’re never left confused. It’s an ideal hairstyle for a more formal event where you really want to turn heads!
3 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles for Kids
Brooklyn’s EASY Ribbon Fishtail Braid | DIY Summer Hairstyle | Cute Girls Hairstyles
This ribbon fishtail braid is oh so cute! It requires no elastics and can easily be dressed up or down! It’s super easy to create and makes the coolest, puffiest braid. To prep the hair, she suggests using dry shampoo to absorb oils and add volume, and you can also use texture spray to add even more volume and grit!
Side Dutch Fishtail Braid | Pretty Hair is Fun – Girls Hairstyle Tutorials
A side Dutch fishtail braid is an adorable hairstyle for kids! All you need is an elastic, hairspray and comb to achieve this stylish look. It’s a casual hairstyle kids can rock from day to day, and they’re sure to get lots of compliments!
French Fishtail Braid | Long Hair | Cute Girls Hairstyles
For kids with long hair, this French fishtail braid is so gorgeous. French braids do take some time, but with some patience and practice you’ll be able to master this hairstyle. You can braid it as tight or as loose as you like and wear it to school or for special occasions!
Fishtail braids are pretty and stylish, no matter your hair length or age! Try these tutorials and you’re sure to turn heads!
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