braids · hair styling
How to Do a Fishtail Braid: Easy Stepsfor Beginners
How to do a fishtail braid in simple steps, on yourself or someone else, plus the French fishtail, the messy fishtail, and how to make it look fuller.
Hairover Team
To do a fishtail braid, split your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section, cross it over, and add it to the right section. Then take a small piece from the outside of the right section and add it to the left. Keep alternating until you reach the end, then tie it. It uses only two sections, so the movement is simple; it just takes a little longer than a regular braid.
Step by step
- Brush hair smooth. Add texturizing spray if it’s slippery.
- Gather it over one shoulder or at the back. Tying a ponytail first makes it easier.
- Split into two equal sections.
- Take a small piece (about half an inch) from the outside edge of the left section.
- Cross it over the top and add it to the inside of the right section.
- Take a small piece from the outside edge of the right section.
- Cross it over and add it to the inside of the left section.
- Repeat, keeping the pieces small and the same size.
- Tie the end. If you started with a ponytail, cut out the first band carefully or hide it.
Tip: smaller pieces give the tight “fishbone” pattern. Bigger pieces are faster and look more relaxed.
Variations
French fishtail. Start at the crown and add a little new hair from the side to each piece as you cross, like a French braid.
Messy fishtail. Braid loosely, then pull the edges out. Great for casual days and concerts.
Side fishtail. Over one shoulder. Romantic and easy to do on yourself.
Half-up fishtail. Two small fishtails from the temples joined at the back. See half-up half-down hairstyles.
Fishtail into a bun. Braid, then coil and pin. A pretty updo for events.
Doing it on yourself
- Start with a side fishtail so you can see it in the mirror.
- Use your fingertips to pick the small pieces.
- Keep your hands close to the braid as you work down.
Making it look fuller
- Pull the outer edges gently once it’s tied (“pancaking”).
- Use texturizing spray or dry shampoo before you start.
- Keep the pieces small and even.
Related guides
Find a cut that braids well
Long layers change how a fishtail looks. Hairover lets you upload a clear photo, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
How do you do a fishtail braid?
Split hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to join the right. Then take a small piece from the outside of the right and cross it to the left. Repeat to the end.
Is a fishtail braid harder than a regular braid?
It takes longer, but the movement is simpler, since you only work with two sections. Most people find it easy after one or two tries.
How do you make a fishtail braid look thicker?
Use smaller pieces as you cross for a tighter pattern, then gently pull the edges outward once it's tied. Texturizing spray first also helps.
Does a fishtail braid work on layered hair?
Yes, but short layers may poke out. Start it as a low ponytail and use texturizing spray for grip.
