Look, there’s a mermaid out of the water!

Just kidding, that’s you with a fishtail braid!

The fishtail braid is a stunning mermaid-esque looking braid that is a go-to for the cool kids out there! Dive into all things fishtail braids with us and find your new go-to braid style to dock on.

What is a Fishtail Braid?

Before we jump into the different types of fishtail braids, let’s get down to the basics. A fishtail braid is a braiding technique that creates a unique-looking pattern resembling the tail of a mermaid’s best friend, a fish! What makes this braid different from all the rest? Fishtail braids are created using just two strands. Funky right?

We wanna let you in on a few secrets, aka the advantages of fishtail braids so that you can make a splash with this look! Take a swim through the content in the chart below to know more.

Advantages of Fishtails	Description
Aesthetic Appeal	Fishtail braids have a unique, intricate look that adds visual interest to your hair. They can be elegant or casual, depending on how they’re styled.
Longevity	Once properly secured, a fishtail braid can last for a long time without falling apart, making it suitable for activities or events where you don’t want to worry about your hair.
Works for Different Hair Types	Fishtail braids are versatile and can be done on different hair types, from straight to wavy or curly. They also work well with various hair lengths, although longer hair provides more intricate detailing.
No Need for Heat Styling	Unlike some other hairstyles that may require heat-styling tools, fishtail braids can be created without using any heat, reducing potential damage to your hair.
Great for Second-Day Hair	Fishtail braids can revive your hair on those days when it might not be at its freshest. They work well with slightly dirty hair and can make it look styled and put together.

How To Do a Fishtail Braid

Now that you know the ins and outs of a fishtail braid, let’s learn how to create one. Until Urcela grants you a mermaid tail, the fishtail braid will have to do.

The tools you’ll need:

1. Hairbrush or comb
2. Hair ties or elastic bands

Step #1

Preparation: Begin by brushing your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles. This will make the braiding process smoother.

Step #2

Divide Your Hair: Divide your hair into two equal sections. Hold one section in your left hand and the other in your right.

Step #3

Start Braiding: Take a small strand of hair from the outer edge of the left section (about ¼ inch or 0.5 cm wide).

Step #4

Cross the Strand: Cross this small strand over the left section and join it with the right section. It should now be part of the right section.

Step #5

Repeat on the Other Side: Take a small strand of hair from the outer edge of the right section (about ¼ inch or 0.5 cm wide). Cross this strand over the right section and join it with the left section. It should now be part of the left section.

Step #6

Continue Alternating: Continue alternating sides, taking a small strand from the outer edge of one section and crossing it over to the other side.

Step #7

Tighten as You Go: As you braid, make sure to pull the strands gently to keep the braid tight and neat.

Step #8

Braid to the End: Keep repeating the process until you reach the end of your hair. If you have layers, you might have some shorter strands at the tips. That’s okay.

Step #9

Secure the Braid: Once you’ve reached the end, use a hair tie or elastic band to secure the braid. Make sure it’s not too tight to avoid pulling on your hair.

Step #10

Optional: Loosen the Braid (Effortless Look): Gently tug on the edges of the braid to loosen it slightly. This creates a more relaxed and effortless appearance.

Fishtail Braids For Black Hair

When you have black hair as dark as the bottom of Mariana Trench it might seem like the world is your oyster when it comes to hairstyles. But, before you get too crazy, we think that fishtail braids for black hair are the ultimate look you won’t wanna pass up. The braids give your hair the look of dimension, despite the darkness of your strands.

Side Fishtail Braid

Channel your inner Katniss Everdeen (but of the sea) and rock this side fishtail braid. As the name suggests, this braid is created to one side. Although finding someone with a side braid is almost as hard to find as a pearl in a clam shell, we still think you should try this one out, you never know, it might just suit you.

Fishtail Braid Wedding

For all the soon-to-be brides out there, ride the wave towards this killer look aka fishtail briad wedding style. From bohemian-inspired weddings to traditional ceremonies, fishtail braids can be customized to suit any bridal style.

If you want to outshine all the other fish in the sea during your wedding day consider adding some hair accessories, such as:

• Fresh flowers
• Fake sea shells
• Hair tinsel
• Ribbon

Double Fishtail Braid

If you consider wearing a fishtail to be making a splash, then buckle up because with a double fishtail braid, you’ll be making waves.

This style involves creating two fishtail braids on either side of your head, giving you a bold and edgy look, here’s how to do it:

1. Start by parting your hair down the middle and securing one side with a clip.
2. Begin creating a fishtail braid on the unclipped side.
3. Repeat the same process on the other side, making sure the braids are symmetrical.
4. Once you’ve completed both braids, secure them with elastic bands, and gently tug on the edges to loosen them.

For an added wow factor, you can accessorize the braids with ribbons, beads, or even small flowers.

Fishtail Braid Dreads

We’ve heard that if you put your ear up to a shell it’ll whisper the sound of the ocean into your ear. Well, that’s false. It’ll actually tell you to try the fishtail braid dreads hairstyle, and that’s a fact. If you have dreads and want to experiment with different hairstyles, fishtail braids can offer a fresh look. Fishtail braids can be created with existing dreads or with long extensions for added length.

Faux Fishtail Braid

If you love the look of fishtail braids but haven’t quite mastered the technique, don’t worry. The faux fishtail braid is a great alternative that provides the same stunning aesthetic with minimal effort.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by gathering your hair into a low ponytail and securing it with an elastic band.
2. Then, divide the ponytail into two equal sections and twist them around each other.
3. Secure the twisted sections with another elastic band at the end, and gently loosen the twists for a fuller and more textured appearance.

It’s almost as easy as fishing! This effortless style is perfect for those on-the-go days when you want to look stylish without spending too much time on your hair.

Loose Fishtail Braid

If you prefer a more relaxed and carefree look, like the look of an effortless mermaid, then the loose fishtail braid is a no-brainer. This style gives your braid a more voluminous and effortless appearance, perfect for those with thinner hair.

Half Up Half Down Fishtail Braid

If you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, why not blend the two with a half up half down fishtail braid? Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair, leaving the rest down. Create a fishtail braid with the top section, following the steps mentioned earlier. Once you’ve reached the end of the braid, secure it with an elastic band.

Try curling the ends that are down for an effortless mermaid look.

Fishtail Braid Short Hair

Contrary to popular belief, fishtail braids can also be done if you have short hair. While the braids may not be as long or intricate, they can still provide a cool look. Try doing the half-up up half-down fishtail braid on your shorter hair, this way you won’t have weird short bits sticking out at the back of the neck.

Messy Fishtail Braid

What makes a mermaid (which is technically a type of fish by the way) so effortless looking, is its messy yet beautiful strands. So, take a page from their book and try out this messy fishtail braid. Instead of pulling each strand tight, leave them slightly loose as you go along. This will create a messy and voluminous appearance that a mermaid obviously embodies 24/7 without trying.

If this look isn’t for you, but you want to channel your inner mermaid, there are a few other styles we think a mermaid could rock, such as:

• Bubble braids
• Braided ponytail
• Butterfly braids

Fishtail Braid Pigtails

If you wanna be playful like a dolphin then we think fishtail braid pigtails are a fun option! This style works well with any hair length and adds a touch of whimsy to your overall appearance. To add a pop of color, you can incorporate colorful hair ties or ribbons into the pigtails.

Dutch Fishtail Braid

We don’t really know what fishtails and the Dutch have in common, but we will say in terms of hair, they pair great together! This variation incorporates the Dutch braiding technique, resulting in a braid that appears to be sitting on top of your hair.

Here’s how to do it! Begin by taking a small section of hair from the top of your head and dividing it into three equal parts. Whereas a regular fishtail braid involves crossing small strands over to the opposite side, with a Dutch fishtail braid, you’ll be crossing them under. Continue this pattern, incorporating small sections of hair from each side as you go along. This will create a braid that appears to be embossed on top of your hair. Secure the braid with an elastic band and gently tug on the edges to loosen it for a softer finish.

Double Dutch Fishtail Braid

For a hairstyle that commands attention, like a fish out of water, the double Dutch fishtail braid is a showstopper. As the name suggests, this style involves creating two Dutch fishtail braids on either side of your head.

Inverted Fishtail Braid

If you’re in the mood for a hairstyle that will make you look like one in a million, the inverted fishtail braid is the one for you. This unique braid is created by flipping the fishtail technique and crossing the strands upwards instead of downwards.

Long Fishtail Braid

If you’re lucky enough to have long and flowing locks, why not show them off with a gorgeous long fishtail braid? If you have longer hair, braiding it into a fishtail that cascades down your back will give you a sexy siren appearance you won’t want to miss out on.

Split Fishtail Braid

For a twist on the classic fishtail braid, the split fishtail braid is a visually striking option. This style involves splitting your hair into two sections, creating separate fishtail braids on each side, and combining them in the middle. This is one of those looks that guaranteed not to make a splash, but a tsunami!

Fake Fishtail Braid

If you love the look of fishtail braids but find them too challenging to achieve, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! The fake fishtail braid is an easy and accessible alternative that mimics the look of the classic fishtail braid.

You can get already braided fishtail hair extensions and attach them to your own hair for perfectly undetectable fake fishtail braids.

Fishtail Braid Curly Hair

Fishtail braids aren’t just for those with straight hair! If you have luscious curls, you can still rock this style. We recommended spraying some texturizing spray on your hair to add grip. This will help the braids hold better and prevent them from unraveling throughout the day. The texturizing spray will also give your curls a bit of extra definition, making them pop even more.

Reverse Fishtail Braid

Like jumping into cool water, this reverse fishtail braid is super refreshing. This unique style gives the illusion that the braid is on top of your hair rather than woven within it. We love this look if you’re trying to do something different while still trying to keep up with the motion of the ocean, aka the trends.

Fishtail Crown Braid

If you’re in the mood for a hairstyle that’s both elegant and whimsical, a fishtail crown braid is the way to go. This regal style involves wrapping a fishtail braid around your head to create a crown-like effect. Poseidon who?

Fishtail Braids With Extensions

If you’re longing for longer, fuller braids but don’t have the natural length or thickness, don’t freak out! With the help of extensions, you can achieve the fishtail braid of your dreams. Simply clip in your desired extensions and follow the steps to create a classic fishtail braid. The added length and volume will give your hairstyle an extra boost.

African Fishtail Braids

Are you looking to embrace your African roots while rocking a trendy hairstyle? This style combines the intricate detailing of the fishtail braid with the cultural heritage of African braiding techniques. The result is a stunning display of artistry and craftsmanship that pays homage to your heritage.

Fishtail Bubble Braid

Make bubbles like a fish underwater! Fishtail bubble braids are whimsical, adding bubbles all along your fishtail braid. What could say you like the ocean more than a fishtail braid with bubbles in it?!

Bob With Fishtail Braid

Who says you need long locks to rock a fishtail braid? If you have a bob haircut, you can still incorporate this stylish braid into your look. Start by parting your hair on one side and creating a fishtail braid on the larger section of hair. Secure the end with a hair tie, and you’re all set! The contrast between the sleek bob and the intricate fishtail braid creates a diamond in the rough kind of look.

Fishtail Braid With Weave

Look we get it, all this talk of fishtail braids is getting redundant, but we swear that one takes things to new heights! Ever consider incorporating a weave into your hairstyle? Adding a weave not only gives your braid added length and volume but also allows for endless customization.

Fishtail Braid Waves

Picture this, you’re on the beach, salt in the air, sand in your hair. What kind of hairstyle do you imagine yourself rocking? Fishtail braid waves? Well, perfect because that’s the right answer.

To enhance the beachy waves even further, spritz some sea salt spray onto your hair and scrunch it with your fingers. The result is a boho-chic hairstyle that’s perfect for lazy summer days lounging in the sand.

Fishtail Braid Bun

If you’re tired of the same old bun hairstyles and want to add some spice, a fishtail braid bun might just be what you are searching for. Start by creating a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Next, create a fishtail braid with the ponytail, securing the end with another hair tie.

Now that we’ve explored different variations of fishtail braids, let’s address some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need to rock these stunning hairstyles.

In Conclusion

So there you have it – a salty, but sexy guide to the wonderful underwater world of fishtail braids. Whether you’re a braid aficionado or a newbie looking to experiment with different hairstyles, these variations of fishtail braids are sure to inspire you.