30 Stunning Fishtail Braid Hairstyles

Every woman loves a hairstyle that combines ease with sophistication. Fishtail braids are a perfect example of this, offering a chic look that’s surprisingly simple to achieve. From weddings and proms to casual outings and everyday wear, fishtail braids are a versatile choice.

Whether you’re new to fishtail-braiding or looking for fresh styling ideas, you’ll find plenty of tips and creative approaches in the selection below.

Tips for Mastering Fishtail Braids

Fishtail-braids are straightforward once you get the hang of them. If you’re unfamiliar with the technique, here’s a basic guide: work with two sections of hair instead of three, taking a strand from the outside of one section and adding it to the inside of the other. Though the technique is simple, you can use your imagination to create stunning styles. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Relaxed fishtail-braids often look more stylish than tight, uniform ones. For a more intricate appearance, vary the size of the sections, such as alternating between 1-inch and 3-inch pieces.

• For a side fishtail-braid, start by making a low side ponytail and secure it with an elastic band that can be removed later.

• If your hair lacks volume, add some texture with a curling iron and backcomb lightly to create a fuller look.

• Messy braids are very popular right now. You can loosen your braid by gently pulling it apart with your fingers or letting some strands fall out, which is particularly effective with layered hair.

• If you’re new to fishtail-braiding, take some time to practice and see what creative styles you can come up with.

Top Fishtail Braid Styles

Fishtail-braids adapt well to different hair types and can be styled in numerous ways. From casual and tousled to sleek and formal, these braids offer a range of options. Here are some standout fishtail-braid styles to inspire you:

1. Sweet and Soft Half Up Fishtail Braid

This braid is slightly looser and gives a gentle look, enhanced by highlights. The braids meet below the crown and merge into a single braid, with the loose ends blending into soft waves.

2. Milkmaid Fishtail Braid

Ideal for long hair, this style involves one or two fishtail-braids wrapped around the head and pinned securely, creating a classic milkmaid look.

3. Sleek Side French Fishtail Braid

Modern and polished, this style is perfect for professional settings. The braid starts at the top of the head and flows down one shoulder, showcasing beautiful blonde ombre shades.

4. Messy Faux Hawk Fishtail Braid

Bold and trendy, this look features a thick fishtail-braid pulled apart for a messy effect. The braid is then styled into a faux hawk with an asymmetrical twist.

5. Seashell French Fishtail Bun

This updo begins with a fishtail French braid that wraps into a tight swirl, forming a delicate seashell-like bun.

6. Braided Fishtail Braids

Intricate yet simple, this style involves creating three fishtail-braids and weaving them together for a stunning, elaborate look.

7. Fishtail Braid Updo for Shorter Hair

Lightly teased hair is twisted and braided into a gentle fishtail, ending in a small, messy chignon bun—perfect for everyday wear.

8. Formal Updo with Horizontally Braided Fishtail Braid

This style features a continuous braid across the back of the head, with the lower half twisted into an elegant bun at the nape of the neck.

9. Boho Half Up Halo Fishtail Braid

For a relaxed look, start two braids on either side of the head and join them into a seamless halo braid.

10. Messy French Fishtail Braid Updo

This style combines the French braiding technique with a messy finish, starting at one side of the head and twisting to the other, ending in a loose low bun.

11. Voluminous Fishtail Braid Faux Hawk

This daring style features a voluminous fishtail-braid with contrasting black and pink colors, styled into an edgy faux hawk.

12. Black and White Fishtail Bunch

A loose, messy side fishtail is coiled and pinned into a large bunch, showcasing a striking black and white color contrast.

13. Pretty Princess Fishtail Braid

This crown braid, perfect for fine hair, encircles the head and is pinned neatly, creating a regal look.

14. Side to Side Fishtail Braid

This braid, transitioning from casual to formal with the swoop of bangs, features a chunky fishtail that rests elegantly over the shoulder.

15. Chunky French Fishtail Braid Pigtails

French fishtail pigtails are styled chunky for a unique, other-worldly effect. They start at the top of the head and end in soft curls.

16. French Double Fishtail Buns

Each side of the head features a fishtail-braid twisted into two buns, creating a look reminiscent of a galactic princess.

17. Fishtail Faux Hawk Braid

This unique braid creates a braided Mohawk effect, starting at the hairline and extending down to the end.

18. Loose Asymmetrical Fishtail Up-do

Featuring two loosened fishtail-braids pinned asymmetrically, this style offers a relaxed and playful appearance.

19. Pony Up Dutch Fishtail Braid

This inverted Dutch fishtail-braid stands out by raising above the hair surface, ending in a cute braided ponytail with wispy flyaways.

20. Pinned Fishtail Braid Buns

Three separate fishtail-braids are woven into small buns, arranged neatly in a row at the back of the head.

21. Three Messy Fishtail Braids into Bun

Braids from the sides and top are gathered into a tousled bun with a slight bouffant at the front, perfect for those who like organized chaos.

22. Criss-Cross Fishtail Braid

This style combines multiple braids into a unique criss-cross pattern at the back, leading into an elegant fishtail.

23. Braided Fishtail Bangs

A fishtail-braid is used to create braided bangs that transition from a fishtail to a three-strand plait, offering a distinctive look.

24. Forest Fairy Fishtail Braid

This whimsical style features an inverted fishtail-braid with purple flowers tucked into auburn hair, evoking a fairy-tale charm.

25. The Fishtail Just Won’t Stop

A continuous fishtail-braid starts on either side and transitions into a regular fishtail, tied off every few inches for a layered look.

26. Side Hairstyle with Crown Fishtail Braid

A half-up, half-down look with a fishtail crown braid and another braid peeking out from beneath, complemented by loose waves.

27. Rolling into One Fishtail Braid

Two twisted sections of hair are joined and continued into a short fishtail-braid, offering a playful twist.

28. Fishtail Braid for Curly Hair

This loose fishtail-braid adds volume and showcases curly hair texture, combining the French braiding technique with a relaxed finish.

29. Fairy Princess Fishtail Updo

A fishtail-braid starts at the top of the head and travels across the nape, blending into curls and topped with a golden leaf tiara.

30. Mermaids in Paradise Fishtail Braid

A simple fishtail-braid in a vibrant red hue flows down the back of the head, merging with voluminous curls for a striking half-up, half-down style.

Fishtail-braids are endlessly versatile and offer a blend of elegance and creativity. Enjoy experimenting with these styles to discover the perfect look for any occasion!