30 Stunning Fishtail Braid Hairstyles to Instantly Upgrade Your Look
Bored of doing the same hairstyle on repeat? Same ponytail, same messy bun, same “I’ll deal with it later” vibe? Yeah… I’ve been there.
That’s exactly why fishtail braid hairstyles are a lifesaver. They look fancy, slightly dramatic, and way more impressive than the effort they actually require. Win-win.
And before you say, “I could never do that,” let me stop you right there. Fishtail braids are way easier than they look. FYI, if you can split your hair into two sections and cross tiny pieces over, you’re already qualified.
Let’s break it all down—from how to do a fishtail braid to 30 seriously pretty styles you’ll want to try ASAP.
What Is a Fishtail Braid (and Why Does It Look So Fancy)?
A fishtail braid uses two sections of hair instead of three, which gives it that intricate, woven look. It appears complicated, but honestly? It’s one of those “fake-it-til-you-make-it” hairstyles.
Why people love fishtail braids:
- They work for casual days and special events
- They look detailed without tons of effort
- They suit long hair, short hair, thick hair, fine hair—you name it
IMO, it’s the braid equivalent of wearing jeans that magically look tailored 🙂
How to Do a Fishtail Braid (Step-by-Step)
Before we jump into the styles, let’s get the basics down.
Simple Fishtail Braid Tutorial
- Start with clean, dry hair. Brush it out so you’re not fighting tangles.
- Split your hair into two equal sections.
- Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right.
- Repeat on the other side. Admit it—this is easier than expected.
- Keep alternating until you reach the ends.
- Secure with a hair tie. Done.
Pro tip: Smaller pieces = more detailed braid. Bigger pieces = looser, boho vibe.
30 Fishtail Braid Hairstyles You’ll Want to Screenshot
1. Dutch Boho Fishtail Braid
This braid starts at the top and drapes across the head with major boho energy.
Gently pull the braid apart after finishing for volume, then hit it with a texture spray.
Best for: Festivals, casual weddings, “effortless” looks that took effort.
2. Double Fishtail Braids
Two fishtail braids = double the impact.
This look feels playful but still polished, which is a rare combo.
3. Simple Classic Fishtail Braid
Clean, timeless, and impossible to mess up.
Add tiny flowers or minimal accessories if you want a soft, romantic feel.
4. French Fishtail Braid
This one starts at the crown and loosens as it goes down.
Relaxed, casual, and perfect for everyday wear.
5. Fishtail Ponytail (Black Hair)
Bold, sleek, and stunning—especially when styled with accessories.
Extensions work great here if you want extra length or volume.
6. Mohawk Fishtail Braid
Fauxhawk, but make it braided.
You start with a loose French fishtail on top, then switch to a classic fishtail at the ends.
Edgy but wearable.
7. Dutch Side Fishtail Ponytail
A boho side braid that actually stays put.
Use bobby pins + strong hairspray if your hair loves escaping :/
8. Fishtail Braid with a Bow
Sweet without being childish.
Create the bow using two small hair loops from the braid itself—no ribbon needed.
9. Half-Up Fishtail Prom Hairstyle
A twist braid on top + fishtail underneath = prom perfection.
Elegant, balanced, and not overdone.
10. Fishtail Braid for Short Hair
Yes, short hair can absolutely rock fishtail braids.
A small side braid adds instant style without trying too hard.
11. Fishtail Braid Hack (No Braiding Skills Required)
This is the cheat code.
You use ponytails, flip them through, and boom—fake fishtail achieved.
12. Braided Fishtail Bun
Braid first, wrap into a bun later.
Perfect for weddings, events, or when you want to look “put together.”
13. Fishtail Ponytail
Simple, practical, and way cuter than a regular ponytail.
Ideal for busy days when you still want nice hair.
14. Double Dutch Fishtail Braids
Two braids tied halfway down with loose ends.
Fun, youthful, and great for casual outfits.
15. Wedding Fishtail Braid
Loose waves + fishtail braid = modern boho bridal hair.
Soft, romantic, and camera-ready.
16. Messy Fishtail Braid
Loose strands, imperfect sections, zero stress.
This one looks better the messier it gets.
17. Fishtail Halo Braid
Basically a braid crown.
It gives fairy-tale energy without feeling costume-y.
18. Half-Up Side Fishtail Braid
One side fishtail, the rest curled and flowing.
Add a decorative pin for weddings or formal events.
19. Fishtail Braid Updo
A fishtail that melts into a bun with face-framing strands.
Great for brides and guests.
20. Fishtail Braid Pigtails
Cute, cozy, and surprisingly chic.
Perfect for colder days or casual weekends.
21. Chunky Side Fishtail with Extensions
Thick, dramatic, and ultra-glam.
Pull the braid apart gently for that full, chunky look.
22. Fishtail Braid with Flowers
Two braids merging into one fishtail, finished with florals.
Dreamy doesn’t even cover it.
23. Milkmaid Fishtail Braid
Similar to a halo braid, but wrapped tighter around the head.
Add flowers if you want full romantic vibes.
24. Pink Fishtail Updo
Two fishtail braids layered into an elegant updo.
Soft pink tones make it extra eye-catching.
25. Twisted Fishtail Braid
This one looks straight out of a fairytale.
Honestly? Leave this to the pros—but enjoy the inspiration.
26. French Fishtail into Ponytail
Loose braid on top, ponytail on the bottom.
Simple, cute, and totally wearable.
27. Fishtail Braid with Curls
Loose fishtail on half the hair, curls flowing underneath.
Perfect if you already have wavy or curly hair.
28. Chunky Fishtail Braid
Bold, oversized, and dramatic.
Not beginner-friendly, but absolutely stunning.
29. Double French Fishtails
Great for fine or short hair.
Adds volume and structure without feeling heavy.
30. Half-Up Fishtail Crown
A fishtail crown with soft curls and flowers.
Romantic, elegant, and ideal for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
So yeah—fishtail braid hairstyles are that girl. They look intricate, work for almost every hair type, and instantly elevate your look without demanding professional skills.
Whether you go messy, sleek, boho, or bridal, there’s a fishtail braid here that fits your vibe.
If you’ve been sleeping on this hairstyle, now’s your sign to wake up and try one. Trust me—you’ll feel way cooler than you did five minutes ago 😉
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