Want to learn how to do a fishtail braid? This variation looks intricate, but it uses only two sections of hair instead of the three used for a traditional braid. Follow the step-by-step tutorials below to try several popular fishtail braid styles.

Classic Fishtail Braid

1. Divide your hair into two large sections. Use the pointed end of a fishtail comb to part the hair evenly in the middle.
2. Take a small piece of hair from the outside of the left section, cross it over, and add it to the right section.
3. Take a small piece of hair from the outside of the right section, cross it over, and add it to the left section.
4. Repeat and alternate steps 2 and 3 until you reach the end of your hair. Use even pieces for a neat finish or vary the pieces slightly for a more relaxed look.
5. Secure the end with an elastic or decorative pin.
6. If you want a fuller-looking braid, gently pull the edges after the end is secured.

French Fishtail Braid

1. Take a small section of hair at the crown of your head and divide it into two sections.
2. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section, cross it over, and add it to the right section.
3. Take a small piece from the outside of the right section, cross it over, and add it to the left section.
4. Repeat from the left, this time picking up a little hair from the left hairline before crossing the piece to the right.
5. Repeat from the right, picking up a little hair from the right hairline before crossing the piece to the left.
6. Continue adding hair from each side as you work down the head.
7. When there is no more loose hair to add, finish with a classic fishtail braid.
8. Secure the end with an elastic or decorative pin.
9. Gently loosen the braid if you prefer a softer finish.

Side Fishtail Braid

1. Gather your hair on one side and secure it in a side ponytail with an elastic to make braiding easier.
2. Divide the ponytail into two sections.
3. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section, cross it over, and add it to the right section.
4. Take a small piece from the outside of the right section, cross it over, and add it to the left section.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you reach the end.
6. Secure the end with an elastic or decorative pin.

Half-Up, Half-Down Fishtail Braid

1. Take a small section of hair from the front left side and split it into two pieces.
2. Create a small fishtail braid by crossing a piece from the outside of each section to the opposite side.
3. Repeat until you reach the end of the section, then secure it with an elastic.
4. Create a matching fishtail braid on the front right side.
5. Bring the two braids together at the center back of your head and secure them with an elastic.
6. Wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic and secure it with a bobby pin, or cover it with a ribbon.
7. Gently loosen the braids if you want a more relaxed finish.

Fishtail Braid Bun

1. Gather your hair on one side and secure it in a side ponytail.
2. Divide the ponytail into two sections.
3. Create a fishtail braid by alternately crossing a small outside piece from each section to the opposite side.
4. Continue to the ends and secure the braid with an elastic.
5. Gently pull the edges to make the braid look fuller.
6. Wind the braid in a circle to form a bun.
7. Secure the bun with as many bobby pins as needed.

Fishtail Braid Tips

• Brush or gently detangle your hair before braiding.
• Smaller sections create a more intricate-looking braid.
• Keep the braid snug enough to hold its shape, but avoid pulling tightly enough to make your scalp uncomfortable.
• For a polished look, smooth flyaways with a small amount of styling product or hairspray.
• For a more textured look, gently pull out a few face-framing strands.
• If the sections become too small near the ends, finish with a traditional three-strand braid.

If your hair needs lightweight moisture and easier detangling before you braid, apply Hairfinity’s Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner as directed.

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Make the routine your own. Choose your hair type and styling priorities to create a personalized Hairfinity Mix for braid-prep days. Create your Hairfinity Mix.

Choose the version that fits your plans: a fishtail bun for a polished occasion, a side braid for an asymmetrical neckline, or a half-up style for a relaxed event look.