The fishtail braid looks intricate and elegant, as if it were a style reserved for hair salons. But what if you could create this beautiful plait at home? With a little patience and the right technique, it’s a surprisingly accessible hairstyle. Unlike a traditional three-strand braid, the fishtail is created by crossing small sections of hair over one another, resulting in a detailed, woven pattern that resembles a fish’s tail. It’s a versatile look that works for both casual days and formal events.
Preparing Your Hair for a Perfect Fishtail
Before you start braiding, a little preparation goes a long way. If your hair is very smooth and silky, it can be helpful to add a bit of texture. You can spray in a light texturizing spray or use a small amount of mousse on damp hair before blow-drying. Slightly second-day hair often holds a braid better. Begin by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. For a standard fishtail, gather all your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. You can also practice this braid on a side ponytail before attempting it on all of your hair loose.
The Simple Steps to Your First Fishtail
Once your hair is gathered, divide the entire ponytail into two equal sections. Now, here’s the simple pattern to follow. Take a thin strand of hair from the outer edge of the left section. Cross this small strand over and join it to the inside of the right section. Then, do the same on the other side. Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the right section, cross it over, and add it to the inside of the left section. That’s the entire process!
Continue alternating sides, pulling small, even sections from the outside and adding them to the opposite side. As you work, gently pull the braid taut to keep it neat. The key is to take small sections—this is what creates that detailed, herringbone effect. Keep going until you reach the ends of your hair, then secure it with a clear elastic.
Tips for a Flawless Finish
If you want a softer, more bohemian look, you can gently tug on the edges of the braid to loosen it and make it appear fuller. This is called “pancaking” the braid. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect; this is a braid that improves with practice. Using a mirror to see the back of your head can be very helpful. Remember, consistency in the size of the sections you pull is more important than speed.
Why the Fishtail Braid is a Go-To Style
This braid is not just about its beautiful appearance. It’s an excellent way to manage hair that’s between washes, as the texture helps the braid hold. It also causes less breakage than a traditional braid because you are working with smaller, more manageable sections of hair. Once you master the basic technique, you can experiment with French fishtail braids or even a fishtail crown.
Mastering the fishtail braid opens up a world of elegant hairstyling possibilities. It may feel awkward at first, but after a few tries, the motion will become second nature. Enjoy the process of creating this stunning, wearable piece of hair art.