Fishtail braids are an absolutely lovely braid style that is made using the two strand technique. This style comes straight out of a storybook—it’s very enchanting and unique, and it can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions. Fishtail braids are made by sectioning the hair into two parts and cross sectioning both parts over each other. Even though fishtail braids look complicated and difficult to make, they are quite easy if you know the basic steps. You might just want to learn how after you see this list of gorgeous fishtail braid hairstyles!
1. French Fishtail Braid
French fishtail braids are similar in style to regular French braids but for the use of two strands to achieve the French fishtail braids instead of three. French fishtail braids are made by cross sectioning the two strands over themselves to give the flat look then braiding down into a fishtail braid. French fishtail can be either tight or loosely braided.
2. Dutch Fishtail Braids
Unlike the French fishtail braids that have the strands cross sectioned over themselves, the Dutch fishtail braids are made by cross sectioning the two strands under each other which gives them their chunky look.
3. Fishtail Braid on Black Hair
Black colored hair is known to accentuate braids and highlight the facial features of the wearers. Fishtail braids on black hair are some of the best-looking fishtail braids since the darkness of the color is simply enchanting.
4. Fishtail Braids for Weddings
Fishtail braids in the right style can even be worn by brides on their big day! The versatility of fishtail braids means you have a wide range of styles to choose from. Fishtail braids can be styled into updos, ponytails and half-up half-down styles for weddings. They can also be adorned with jewels and clips for a regal flair.
5. Side Fishtail Braid
To get the perfect side fishtail braid, the hair is braided either as a Dutch or French fishtail braid along just one side of the head. Side fishtail braids can be braided with extensions or just the natural hair and look amazing either way!
6. Fishtail Ponytail
Switch up your braided ponytail game by braiding the end as a fishtail braid instead of using the three strands technique. Fishtail ponytails have a distinctive look and you’ll be sure to get a lot of compliments if you keep your braid tight and neat.
7. Double Fishtail Braid
Double fishtail braids feature just two French or Dutch fishtail braids braided either together or on different sides of the head. Double fishtail braids are a versatile hairstyle that can be styled into ponytails, updos and many other styles.
8. Fishtail Braids for Short Hair
One or more fishtail braids can be plaited on short hair types to spice up your bob! In order to pull off most braided hairstyles, you need at least 2 inches of hair length but to comfortably get a nice fishtail braid, at least 5 inches is recommended.
9. Half-Up Half-Down Fishtail Braid
To achieve the majestic half-up half-down fishtail braids style, section your hair horizontally into two sections—an upper and lower section—and have the upper section plaited into one or more fishtail braids while the lower section is left loose. Half-up half-down fishtail braids are easy to make and take less time since half of the hair doesn’t need to be braided.
10. Loose Fishtail Braid
To get this look, simply braid your fishtail braids loosely. This helps prevent tension on the scalp which can eventually cause hair loss or thinning.
11. Fishtail Braid With Locs
Are you tired of simply wearing your locs down or in a basic ponytail? Fishtail braids are a super satisfying way to shake up your look and add style to your dreadlocks. Your dreadlocks can be braided into one or more fishtail braids depending on your preference.
12. Fishtail Braid Updo
If you want comfortable fishtail braids that are out of your face and not falling on your back, possibly for official or ceremonial occasions, go for the reliable fishtail braids updo. The style keeps your hair secure and proper for the whole day until whenever you’re ready to let your hair down.
13. Fishtail Braid Weave
You have a couple different options for this one: you can use synthetic braiding hair to make your fishtail braid or attach a curly or straight weave to your natural ponytail that can be made into fishtail braids. Either way, you’ll attain a longer length which will definitely improve the look and definition of the fishtail braids.
14. Fishtail Braid Pigtails
Fishtail braid pigtails are two ponytails, one on each side of the head, braided as fishtails. The pigtails can be made either high or low and are a very cute hairstyle that’s most often used on kids or to add a youthful flair to your look.
15. Messy Fishtail Braid
Messy hairstyles are in style right now and fishtail braids are no exception! Messy fishtail braids are artistic and they give off a bohemian vibe. Messy fishtail braids don’t require too much effort or attention to detail and they’re always loosely braided.
16. Fishtail Braids for Men
Fishtail braids aren’t exclusive to just women. In fact, men can rock fishtail braids in different styles that make them look fierce! When it comes to standout fishtail braid styles for men, Viking and Mohawk versions are leading the pack. Learn more about these and other styles in our braid hairstyles for men article.
17. Faux Fishtail Braid
Faux fishtail braids are not made using the traditional two strands technique. Instead, they’re done by first securing the hair into a low ponytail with a rubber band, leaving a considerable amount of space from the root of the hair depending on how long you want the fishtail to be. The hair is then split and turned, or rolled, inward several times to achieve the fishtail look.
18. Double Dutch Fishtail Braid
Double Dutch fishtail braids feature two fishtail braids braided from the front of the head to the nape of the neck with the two strands cross sectioned under themselves. Double Dutch braids can either be loose or tight and extensions can be added if you want them extra long.
19. Reverse Fishtail Braid
Reverse fishtail braids resemble the Dutch braids but instead of using the three strands technique as you do with Dutch braids, reverse fishtail braids are made using two strands. Regular fishtail braids are made by cross sectioning the strands over themselves while in reverse fishtail braids, they are crossed under.
20. Fishtail Braid With Flowers
Flowers are always-beautiful and fanciful accessories used to adorn the hair. Fishtail braids can be adorned with flowers for both kids and adults, especially for ceremonial occasions.
