15 Pretty Fishtail Braid Hairstyle Ideas for Any Occasion

A fishtail braid looks far harder than it is. There's no three-strand juggling, just two sections and small pieces crossed from one side to the other, over and over. That simplicity is why it's so useful. Once you have the basic move down, you can turn it into a ponytail, a bun, a crown, or a half-up without learning anything new. The other secret is the finish: gently pulling the woven edges apart makes a thin braid look full and a plain one look soft. Here are the variations worth trying.

Classic Fishtail Braid

The classic fishtail runs straight down the back, sleek and defined. Gather all your hair, split it into two sections, and cross small pieces from the outside of each over to the other side, working down. The smaller the pieces, the more detailed the weave. Secure the end with a clear elastic so nothing distracts from the pattern. This is the version to master first, since every other fishtail style builds on it.

Side Fishtail Braid

Sweeping the braid over one shoulder is the easiest way to fishtail your own hair, since you can watch what you're doing. Brush everything to one side, gather it low behind an ear, and braid down over the front of your shoulder. It looks pretty resting there and shows off the weave. Twist and pin your face-framing pieces at the side first for a cleaner front. This is a relaxed, everyday take on the braid.

Low Fishtail Ponytail

A low fishtail ponytail is the one to wear to the office. Tie your hair into a low ponytail first, then fishtail the length of the tail and secure the end. Building the braid on a ponytail base keeps it neat and controlled. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it. The result is tidy and quietly pretty, perfect for a long workday when you want your hair up and out of the way.

High Fishtail Ponytail

For more energy, set the ponytail up high before you braid. A high fishtail ponytail lifts the whole look and swings when you move. Tie the tail high on the crown, split it in two, and fishtail down to the ends. Pull the woven edges apart for a fuller, softer tail. This one suits the gym, a day out, or a night that calls for a bit more attitude. It keeps hair off your neck and looks sporty and fun.

Dutch Fishtail Braid

A Dutch fishtail sits raised off the scalp for a bold, three-dimensional effect. Start a Dutch braid at the hairline, crossing strands underneath, then switch to the two-section fishtail method as you feed in hair down the head. Because the braid is crossed under, it stands out from your head instead of lying flat. Pull the edges to widen it once you reach the nape. It's a striking, structured version that really shows off the pattern.

French Fishtail Braid

The French fishtail gathers hair as it goes, braided close to the scalp from the crown down. Begin near your hairline, and as you fishtail, feed in small sections from each side, the way you would with a French braid. This keeps all your hair swept back and controlled, with the weave running the length of your head. Leave it defined for a neat look or pull it apart for softness. It's a pretty, tidy all-over braid.

Fishtail Crown Braid

A fishtail crown wraps the braid around your head like a halo, which suits medium-to-long hair beautifully. Braid a fishtail along one side, carry it around the back, and pin it up and over toward the front to complete the circle. It has a romantic, storybook feel. Tug the edges wide so the crown looks full and soft. This is a lovely choice for a wedding or any event where you want something up and special.

Half-Up Fishtail

A half-up fishtail braids only the top section and leaves the rest of your hair down. Gather the crown and upper sides, fishtail a few inches, and secure it at the back while your length flows loose underneath. It keeps hair off your face while showing off both the braid and your waves. You can also fishtail two small pieces from your temples and join them into the half-up. It's sweet, feminine, and quick.

Double Fishtail Braids

Two fishtail braids give a playful, symmetrical look. Part your hair down the middle, then fishtail each side into its own braid, pigtail style. Keep them tight for a sporty feel or pull them loose for something softer. Double braids are practical for keeping all your hair contained on an active day. They also work as a base for pinning up into other styles later. This is a fun, youthful way to wear the fishtail.

Fishtail Low Bun

Fishtail your hair first, then coil the braid into a low bun at the nape for a graceful updo. Braid a side or back fishtail, wrap it around into a bun, and pin it in place. The woven texture makes the bun look intricate and full. Leave a few soft pieces out around the face to keep it from looking severe. This is a pretty, grown-up style for weddings, dinners, or any dressed-up evening.

Fishtail High Bun

For a taller, more dramatic updo, take the braid into a high bun. Fishtail your hair, then twist and pin it into a bun high on the crown. You can also wrap a separate fishtail braid around the base of a high bun for extra detail. The lifted placement makes the whole look bolder and shows off your neck. Pull the braid pieces apart before coiling so the bun looks fuller. It's elegant with a bit of edge.

Messy Textured Fishtail

Not every fishtail needs to be neat. A messy version leaves the braid loose and undone, with pieces pulled out around the face and soft waves running through the length. Braid loosely, then tug the edges apart until it looks relaxed and lived-in. Add some texture spray first so it holds that tousled shape. This is the beachy, off-duty take on the braid. It looks like you did it in five minutes, even if you fussed a little.

Fishtail Mohawk

A fishtail mohawk runs a bold braid straight down the center of your head, with smaller braided accents along the sides. It turns the fishtail into a real statement. Braid the center section as a fishtail from front to back, and add tight side braids or leave the sides sleek. Keep it loose and relaxed for a laid-back edge, or tight for something sharper. This is for anyone who wants their braid to stand out and make a point.

Milkmaid Fishtail Braids

Milkmaid fishtails cross two braids over the top of your head, meeting like a crown built from your own hair. Part your hair down the middle, fishtail each side, then bring the two braids up and over, pinning them across the opposite side. The double-braid crown looks intricate and romantic. Tug both braids wider for a fuller effect. This is a charming, old-world updo that keeps all your hair up and off your shoulders.

Fishtail Braid with a Bow

Adding a bow turns a simple fishtail into something special. Braid a side fishtail or a low fishtail ponytail, then tie a ribbon into a large bow at the base or the end. Satin looks pretty for evening, while a velvet bow feels a little richer. The bow adds a playful, feminine twist to an otherwise plain braid. Let the ribbon ends trail down with the braid. It's a quick, easy way to dress the style up for an occasion.