21 Fishtail Braids Hairstyles Ideas 2026

Have you ever been in the middle of a fishtail braid when it abruptly becomes a tangled mess? Or worse, no matter how much you disassemble it, it still appears flat.

I’ve also wondered how everyone on Instagramer manages to make it look so easy.

The truth is that learning the proper techniques and procedures is more important than having “perfect” hair.

You’ll learn how to create a fishtail braid that suits your hair type, looks fuller, and remains neat in this post.

Is Fishtail Braid Good for Hair?

Yes, a fishtail braid is kind to your hair if done correctly. It helps prevent breaking throughout the day and shields strands from friction.

Tight braids can strain the roots and create tension, so it’s important to avoid pulling them too tight.

In fact, using a soft elastic and a loose braid helps keep your hair healthy and free of tangles.

Therefore, consider the fishtail braid to be both a fashion statement and an easy method to protect your hair while maintaining a polished appearance.

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How Many Strands Do You Need for a Fishtail Braid?

Unlike a typical braid, which employs three strands, a fishtail braid only uses two.

Just remove a tiny piece from one section’s outside, move it to the opposite side, and repeat.

Your braid will appear more intricate and sophisticated if the pieces are smaller. Choose larger pieces if you prefer a speedy, chunky version.

It’s as easy as two strands, steady hands, and a little patience. It seems more like weaving than braiding until you establish the rhythm.

Half-Up Fishtail Waves

Soft, undone waves paired with a half-up fishtail braid create the perfect in-between look for casual days or outdoor events.

The braid allows the loose ends to fall freely while adding form and keeping the top layers away from your face.

Recreate it by gently curling your hair, teasing the crown for lift, and then braiding two little fishtails and combining them into one.

Low Textured Fishtail

A loose fishtail braid swept low over the back always looks effortless yet elegant. It’s ideal for dinner dates, beach days, or any outfit with an open back.

Start with dry, textured hair, divide it in half, and then cross a few strands from each half to recreate.

To get a smooth, lived-in appearance, release the braid a little bit while maintaining a delicate tension to allow the face-framing sections to fall naturally.

Floral Fishtail Glam

Romantic and bold, this floral fishtail braid turns into a showstopper for weddings or festive events.

The strewn roses provide that dreamy bridal appeal, and the gentle curls at the ends offset the rigid braid on top.

It’s the ideal statement piece for any party, whether it’s modern or traditional.

Bubble Fishtail Pony

Sleek yet creative, this bubble fishtail ponytail gives your braid structure with a playful twist.

For formal occasions or evenings out where you desire polish without stiffness, it’s ideal.

Start with a tight fishtail at the top to achieve the desired style, then use elastics to secure portions as you go down. To give each bubble shape, gently tug on it.

Side Floral Fishtail

Soft, airy texture with woven flowers makes this side fishtail perfect for bridal mornings or romantic shoots.

For that fairy-tale vibe, the braid blends loose waves with structure as it flows diagonally.

Use pins to attach flower sprigs or dried blooms while maintaining a loose, whimsical form overall.

Sleek Fishtail Ponytail

High-shine and structured, this sleek fishtail ponytail is the definition of statement hair.

It’s ideal for picture sessions, parties, or any occasion where you want to draw attention to your appearance.

To conceal the elastic, wrap a strand around the base. For a sleek finish and durable hold, apply styling gel.

Boho Fishtail Twists

Soft waves and loose fishtail twists give this hairstyle a dreamy boho touch, perfect for garden parties or bridal shoots.

It appears beautiful and weightless thanks to the delicate butterfly clips.

For an airy feel, gently pull out the strands. For a whimsical, fairytale finish, add tiny butterfly or floral pins.

Side Half Fishtail

Soft, romantic, and effortless, this side fishtail braid paired with loose waves is perfect for brunches or date nights.

It gives plain, medium-length hair structure while subtly framing the face.

To organically highlight the texture and give volume, gently fluff the braid with your fingertips.

Double Fishtail Braid

Two fishtails combined into one thick side braid create beautiful depth and dimension.

For formal occasions where you want a detailed look without requiring extensions, it’s the ideal choice.

Along the crown, begin with a tiny fishtail, then combine it with a larger one close to the shoulder.

Voluminous Dutch Fishtail

A textured Dutch fishtail braid like this brings volume and movement, perfect for thick or highlighted hair.

Start with a Dutch fishtail style, braiding under rather than over, and then gently pull each segment for width to achieve this effect.

To maintain the airy, dimensional finish, use a light mist and keep the crown somewhat loose for a gentle lift.

Romantic Fishtail Pony

Softly draped fishtail braids meeting in a low pony create a timeless bridal look. It’s a style that works beautifully for formal occasions or engagement shoots.

Start by creating a textured ponytail by blending two loose fishtail braids along the crown.

For a delicate touch, pin in tiny white flowers after curling the ends for flow. For a lovely finish, a few drawn strands frame the face.

Braided Low Pony

Soft texture and gentle waves give this braided low ponytail an elegant, effortless vibe, perfect for engagement parties or bridesmaids.

The fishtail braid blends into loose curls and adds structure while sitting nicely across the crown.

To imitate, begin with a teased volume at the top, gather the side pieces into a low ponytail, then fishtail braid them.

Loose Pancaked Fishtail

A soft, airy fishtail like this adds instant volume and a laid-back charm that works beautifully for casual outings or cozy dinner dates.

To get that soft, undone look, the braid is gently pancaked to broaden each portion.

To replicate, begin with loosely gathered hair, pull the sides apart softly, and braid down with little tension.

Textured Fishtail Bun

Soft, textured loops and fishtail detailing make this low bun ideal for weddings or romantic evenings. It’s elegant without feeling overdone.

Start by loosely braiding both sides in a fishtail and tying them together at the nape to imitate. For volume, gently pin the ends into a bun.

For a carefree finish that strikes a balance between rigidity and softness, let a few tendrils fall around the face.

Side Fishtail with Clip

A polished yet easy style, this side fishtail paired with soft curls is great for bridesmaids or semi-formal days.

The pearl clip adds just the right amount of shine, and the braid melts into wavy lengths after starting high on one side.

Curl your hair into loose waves, braid it from the temple, and pin the end close to the back to replicate the look.

Braided Floral Fishtail

Baby’s breath woven through a long fishtail braid gives this style a delicate, fairy-tale finish, perfect for garden weddings or spring festivities.

Start by creating a centered fishtail braid and adding breadth by pulling gently at the edges.

Using bobby pins to hold them firmly without crushing the petals, insert tiny flower sprigs evenly throughout.

Curled Fishtail Half-Up

Loose curls paired with a fishtail twist make this look ideal for bridesmaids or elegant dinner events.

A delicate flower pin that provides a touch of elegance without going overboard secures the braid as it gently wraps around the back.

To replicate, use a medium barrel wand to curl your hair, braid one side into a fishtail, and tuck the other side under.

The braid is ideal for short or shoulder-length hairstyles since it begins high on one side and gently transitions into loose curls.

Short Fishtail with Pin

Even short hair can carry elegance, and this fishtail proves it beautifully.

To reproduce, braid a tiny portion of the crown, add light curls for volume, and fasten it with a fancy hairpin.

Twisted Fishtail with Blooms

Soft twists blending into a loose fishtail braid make this hairstyle a perfect mix of elegance and comfort. It’s a go-to look for brides or bridesmaids who love effortless detail.

To reproduce, add tiny white flowers for a natural touch, twist the front portions backward, and combine them into a fishtail braid.

For an all-day romantic, fresh vibe, wear your braid loose and disheveled.

Tight Classic Fishtail

A clean, symmetrical fishtail braid like this is ideal for sleek looks or professional occasions.

It is ideal for straight, medium-to-long hair because of its tight weave, which accentuates luster and precision.

Maintain constant tension throughout, and use a tiny elastic to finish. Flyaways are kept in check with a delicate mist of smoothing spray.

Loose Boho Fishtail

Soft waves mixed with a relaxed fishtail braid make this look perfect for summer days or beach parties.

To recreate, start with loose braiding from mid-length on day-old textured hair, leaving the ends loose to allow for movement.

To accentuate the natural, disheveled texture, pull out a few face-framing strands and sprinkle with sea salt spray.

FAQs

How can I make my fishtail braid look fuller?

Start with dry textured hair or use a small amount of dry shampoo for grip to give your fishtail braid additional volume.

After braiding, use a technique known as “pancaking” to gently pull the edges of each segment outward.

Without changing the braid’s shape, it instantly gives the impression that it is softer and thicker.

Why does my fishtail braid keep falling apart?

Your hair may be overly smooth or clean if your braid comes loose too quickly.

Before beginning, use a texture spray or try braiding day-old hair.

Additionally, for a longer hold, use a transparent elastic to bind it and lightly mist with hairspray.