How To Do A Fishtail Braid?

If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your hairstyling skills and try something unique, then learning how to do a fishtail braid is a must! A fishtail braid is a beautiful and intricate hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance and charm to any look. Whether you’re getting ready for a special occasion or simply want to switch up your everyday style, this article will guide you through the steps of achieving a flawless fishtail braid. So grab your hair ties and let’s get braiding!

Preparing Your Hair

Before you start creating your fishtail braid, it’s important to prepare your hair. The first step is to brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. This will make it easier to work with and ensure a smooth and neat braid.

Next, gather all the materials you’ll need for the braid. This includes a comb or brush, small hair elastics, and any accessories you want to add to your braid, such as ribbons or clips. Having everything within reach will save you time and prevent any interruptions during the braiding process.

Lastly, decide on the parting you want for your braid. You can choose to create a middle parting for a symmetrical look, or a side parting for a more casual and relaxed vibe. This step is purely based on personal preference, so go with what makes you feel most comfortable and confident.

Creating the Fishtail Braid

Now that your hair is prepared, it’s time to start creating the fishtail braid. Follow these steps to achieve a beautiful and intricate fishtail braid:

1. Divide your hair into two sections. Start by gathering all your hair to the back and splitting it into two equal parts.

2. Take a small strand from the outer section. Pick up a small section of hair from the outermost part of one section.

3. Cross the small strand over to the inner section. Take the small strand you just picked up and cross it over to the opposite section. Make sure to pull it tight to keep the braid secure.

4. Repeat the process on the opposite side. Now, pick up a small strand from the outermost part of the other section and cross it over to the opposite side.

5. Continue crossing strands until you reach the end of your hair. Repeat steps 3 and 4, alternating between sections until you reach the end of your hair. Remember to pull each strand tight to maintain the braid’s neatness.

Secure the Braid

Once you’ve reached the end of your hair, it’s time to secure the fishtail braid. Follow these steps to ensure your braid stays in place all day:

1. Use a small hair elastic. Take a small hair elastic and wrap it around the end of the braid. Make sure it is tight enough to hold the braid securely, but not too tight that it causes discomfort.

2. Tie the elastic at the end of the braid. Secure the hair elastic by tying it in a knot or looping it through itself. This will prevent the elastic from slipping out and keep your braid intact.

3. Adjust the tightness of the braid. If you prefer a tighter braid, gently tug on the sections of the braid starting from the top and working your way down. This will tighten the strands and give your braid a more polished look.

Make the Braid Fuller

To add volume and make your fishtail braid look fuller, follow these steps:

1. Gently pull apart the sections of the braid. Starting from the top, gently tug on the sections of the braid to loosen them up. This will create the illusion of a thicker braid and add dimension to your hair.

2. Loosen the strands to create volume. Using your fingers, carefully pull on the individual strands of the braid to make them appear thicker. This technique will create a fuller and more voluminous fishtail braid.

Style the Fishtail Braid

Now that you have mastered creating the fishtail braid, it’s time to style it and make it your own. Here are some ways to enhance your fishtail braid:

1. Finish with hairspray. To ensure your fishtail braid stays in place all day, lightly spray it with a medium-hold hairspray. This will help combat any flyaways and keep your braid looking sleek and polished.

2. Add accessories like ribbons or clips. For a playful and feminine touch, add accessories to your fishtail braid. Secure colorful ribbons or decorative clips along the length of the braid to customize your look and make a statement.

3. Experiment with different placements and variations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try different placements and variations of the fishtail braid. You can create a side fishtail braid, a half-up fishtail braid, or even incorporate it into an updo. Play around with different styles to find what suits you best.

Tips and Tricks

To ensure a successful fishtail braid, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Start with dry, clean hair. It’s best to work with hair that is dry and clean, as this will make the braiding process smoother and more manageable. If your hair is wet or oily, the strands may slip out and result in a messy braid.

2. Use texturizing spray for added grip. If your hair is too soft or slippery, use a texturizing spray to add grip and hold to your strands. This will make it easier to achieve a neat and secure fishtail braid.

3. Practice on a mannequin or a friend’s hair first. If you’re new to fishtail braiding, it’s helpful to practice on a mannequin head or a friend’s hair before attempting it on your own. This will give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the technique and gain confidence in your braiding skills.

4. Take your time and be patient. Fishtail braiding requires precision and attention to detail. Take your time with each strand and make sure to cross them over tightly. Patience is key when creating a flawless fishtail braid.

Fishtail Braid for Different Hair Types

The fishtail braid can be achieved on various hair lengths and types. Here’s how it can be adapted for different hair types:

1. Short hair: If you have short hair, you can still rock a fishtail braid. Start the braid from the top and continue until you reach the ends. Use smaller sections of hair to create the braid, and secure it with a small hair elastic.

2. Medium length hair: Medium length hair is perfect for a classic fishtail braid. Simply follow the steps mentioned earlier, dividing your hair into two sections and crossing smaller strands from each side. Adjust the tightness and looseness based on your preference.

3. Long hair: Long hair is ideal for a full and voluminous fishtail braid. Start the braid at the top of your head and continue until the ends. You can also incorporate other braiding techniques, such as a French or Dutch braid, to add more intricacy and dimension to your long fishtail braid.

Fishtail Braid Variations

While the classic fishtail braid is timeless and elegant, there are other variations you can try to switch up your look. Here are a few popular variations:

1. French fishtail braid: This variation combines the elements of a French braid and a fishtail braid. Start by dividing your hair into two sections, then pick up small sections from each side and cross them over to the opposite side. Continue adding hair to each strand as you braid down, creating a French fishtail braid.

2. Dutch fishtail braid: The Dutch fishtail braid is similar to the French fishtail braid, but with an inverted technique. Instead of crossing strands over, you cross them under. This creates a raised, 3D effect that adds more texture and intrigue to your fishtail braid.

3. Messy fishtail braid: For a more relaxed and bohemian look, try a messy fishtail braid. Start by creating a fishtail braid following the steps mentioned earlier, but intentionally pull out random sections of the braid to create a tousled and effortless appearance.

Fixing Common Mistakes

Even with practice, mistakes can happen. Here’s how to fix common fishtail braid mishaps:

1. Uneven sections: If you notice uneven sections in your braid, gently pull on each section to adjust the tension and make them more even. This will create a balanced and symmetrical fishtail braid.

2. Slipping strands: If a strand slips out of the braid, don’t panic. Simply pick it up and cross it over to the appropriate section, making sure to pull it tight to secure it in place. Use a bobby pin if needed to keep the strand in position.

3. Loose braid: If your braid feels loose or lacks volume, gently pull on the strands to loosen them up and create more fullness. Remember to start from the top of the braid and work your way down, ensuring an evenly distributed loosening effect.

Removing the Fishtail Braid

When it’s time to remove your fishtail braid, follow these steps to avoid any damage or tangles:

1. Carefully unravel the braid. Starting from the bottom, gently undo the hair elastic and begin unraveling the braid strand by strand. Take your time to prevent any hair breakage or tangling.

2. Detangle any knots gently. After the braid is completely unravelled, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle any knots or tangles. Starting from the bottom and working your way up will prevent unnecessary hair breakage.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a stunning fishtail braid that suits your hair type and personal style. Whether you’re going for a casual look or a more polished appearance, the fishtail braid is a versatile and timeless hairstyle that never fails to impress. So grab your materials, gather your patience, and get ready to rock a fabulous fishtail braid!