25 Fishtail Hairstyles for Every Occasion and Texture
25 stunning fishtail hairstyles from casual side braids to elegant updos — step-by-step techniques for every hair length, texture, and skill level.
By Nadia Okafor · Licensed stylist specializing in texture, curls, and protective styles.
Published May 22, 2026
The fishtail braid is one of the most visually striking braid techniques — its herringbone weave looks intricate and time-consuming but uses only two strands instead of the three that traditional braids require. Once you learn the basic crossover motion, the fishtail becomes one of the fastest and most versatile braids in your repertoire. It works on straight, wavy, and curly textures and looks equally at home at a beach bonfire and a wedding.
These twenty-five fishtail hairstyles cover every length, occasion, and skill level. Whether you want a quick five-minute side braid or an elaborate fishtail updo for a formal event, the herringbone pattern adds a textural depth that no other braid can match. If you are new to fishtail braiding, start with the classic side fishtail — once you master the two-strand crossover, every variation on this list becomes accessible.
1. The Classic Side Fishtail
The classic side fishtail is the foundation of every other style on this list — pull all your hair over one shoulder, divide into two equal sections, and alternate pulling thin strands from the outside of each section to the opposite side. The thinner the strands, the more intricate the pattern. A hair elastic at the bottom secures the finished braid, and gently pulling the edges outward creates a wider, more relaxed shape.
The side fishtail takes under five minutes once you have the technique and holds all day without pins or spray. It works on every texture from straight to curly and on any length from a medium lob to waist-length hair. A texturizing spray before braiding adds grip on freshly washed hair. See our braided hairstyles guide for more braid variations.
2. The French Fishtail
The French fishtail combines the French braid's feed-in technique with the fishtail's two-strand pattern — start at the crown and incorporate new hair from each side as you cross strands over. The result is a close-to-the-head herringbone that runs from the crown to the nape, creating a polished, structured look that shows the entire pattern.
The French fishtail is more challenging than the standard fishtail because you are feeding in new hair while maintaining only two strands. Practice on dry, second-day hair for maximum grip. This is the most elegant everyday fishtail — polished enough for work and practical enough for summer errands. The French technique keeps all hair contained and off the neck.
3. The Messy Fishtail
The messy fishtail is the most popular casual version — braid loosely with thick sections rather than thin, then pull the edges aggressively until the braid doubles in width. The deliberate imperfection creates a bohemian, lived-in quality that looks effortlessly chic. Face-framing tendrils left free at the temples add to the undone aesthetic.
The messy fishtail is the most forgiving variation for beginners because imperfections become part of the style. It is one of the most low-maintenance braided styles and one of the best summer hairstyles — it holds through heat, humidity, and wind while looking intentionally relaxed. A sea salt spray before braiding enhances the textured, beachy quality.
4. The Fishtail Ponytail
A high ponytail secured with an elastic, then fishtail-braided from the elastic down, creates a sporty, polished hybrid. The ponytail base adds height and lifts the braid off the back, while the fishtail pattern adds visual interest that a standard braided ponytail lacks. Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic to conceal it.
The fishtail ponytail is the ideal workout and active-day style because the ponytail base keeps everything secure and the braid prevents tangles. It works on medium and long hair and is one of the most practical ponytail variations. For a more dramatic version, pancake the fishtail aggressively for width.
5. The Double Fishtail Braids
Two fishtail braids — one on each side of a center part — create a youthful, sporty look that keeps all hair off the face and neck. Part the hair straight down the center, braid each side separately, and tie each with a small elastic. The symmetry of the double fishtails creates a clean, graphic pattern from every angle.
Double fishtails are one of the best protective overnight styles — braid before bed and unravel in the morning for heat-free waves with a natural texture. They are also one of the most popular styles for teens and women in their twenties. A slight pull on each braid fattens them into chunky, statement pieces.
6. The Fishtail Crown Braid
The fishtail crown wraps a single fishtail braid around the head like a halo, creating one of the most elegant updo styles available. Start the fishtail behind one ear, braid along the hairline toward the opposite ear, continue around the back, and pin the end underneath the starting point. The herringbone pattern circles the entire head.
The fishtail crown is a stunning wedding and party style that keeps every strand contained while looking intricate and romantic. It requires at least shoulder-length hair to complete the full circle. Bobby pins along the crown secure the braid in place. Fresh flowers or decorative pins tucked into the braid elevate it for bridal styling.
7. The Fishtail Updo
A low fishtail braid that is coiled into a bun at the nape creates an elegant updo with visible herringbone texture. Braid the fishtail loosely, pancake it for width, then twist the braid into a spiral at the nape and pin securely. The braid's pattern shows beautifully in the coiled shape, creating a textural bun that a simple twist cannot achieve.
The fishtail updo is a refined option for formal events — weddings, galas, and holiday parties. The visible braid pattern adds dimension that a plain chignon lacks. Leave face-framing tendrils free for softness. See our updo guide for more gathered styles. This updo holds securely all evening with a few well-placed bobby pins and light hairspray.
8. The Fishtail Half-Up
Two small fishtail braids — one from each temple — that meet at the back of the head and pin together create a romantic half-up style. The braids frame the face while the rest of the hair flows freely below. The herringbone pattern at the temples adds intricate detail to an otherwise simple silhouette.
The fishtail half-up is one of the most versatile styles on this list — casual enough for everyday wear, elegant enough for parties and date nights. It works on wavy and curly hair beautifully because the loose lengths add natural texture beneath the structured braids. A decorative clip where the braids meet adds polish for formal settings.
9. The Fishtail Headband
A thin fishtail braid that runs along the hairline from ear to ear creates a braided headband effect. Start behind one ear, braid a small section along the forehead, and pin behind the opposite ear. The herringbone sits like a crown across the forehead while the rest of the hair stays loose.
The fishtail headband is a beautiful way to keep hair off the face without pulling everything back. It works particularly well on long hair where the contrast between the structured headband and flowing lengths creates visual interest. This is a lovely fall and spring style that replaces a fabric headband with your own hair.
10. The Fishtail Side Bun
A side fishtail braid that coils into a low bun below one ear creates an asymmetric updo with romantic character. Braid all hair to one side in a loose fishtail, pancake for volume, then twist into a spiral and pin at the nape below the ear. The side placement adds a vintage, old-Hollywood quality.
The fishtail side bun is a wedding favorite — it photographs beautifully from every angle because the braid is visible from the front and the bun sits at the side rather than hidden at the back. Fresh flowers or a jeweled pin at the bun adds bridal elegance. See our updo guide for more asymmetric gathered styles.
11. The Waterfall Fishtail
The waterfall fishtail combines the waterfall braid's drop-through technique with the fishtail pattern — sections of hair are dropped through the braid at intervals, creating cascading strands that flow down through the herringbone weave. The effect is a horizontal fishtail across the back of the head with loose hair falling through it like water.
The waterfall fishtail is one of the most intricate styles on this list and requires practice to master. The result is stunning — particularly on highlighted or multi-toned hair where the dropped strands show color dimension. This romantic style is ideal for outdoor weddings and summer events where flowing, ethereal hair is the aesthetic.
12. The Fishtail Mohawk
A French fishtail that runs along the center of the head from forehead to nape creates a raised mohawk-like ridge of herringbone texture. The sides are pulled tightly into the center braid, creating a sleek profile with dramatic height along the crown. The fishtail's raised pattern adds an edgy, sculptural quality.
The fishtail mohawk is the boldest style on this list — it makes a statement at parties and festivals. The tight tension at the sides creates a polished, intentional look while the raised center braid adds height and drama. For a softer version, pancake the center braid for width. This works best on medium to long hair with some texture.
13. The Loose Boho Fishtail
The boho fishtail is braided with deliberately irregular, thick sections and pulled out until the braid is wide, flat, and imperfect — the most relaxed version of the fishtail. Hair accessories — ribbons, thin scarves, or tiny flowers woven into the braid — complete the bohemian aesthetic.
The boho fishtail is the defining braid of music festivals, beach weddings, and summer garden parties. It works best on second-day or third-day hair with natural texture. Wavy hair creates the most effortless boho fishtail because the wave pattern adds dimension within the braid. This is the ultimate low-maintenance statement braid.
14. The Fishtail Twist
The fishtail twist replaces the traditional crossover with a twist — each section is twisted before crossing, creating a rope-like texture combined with the herringbone pattern. The result is a thicker, more dimensional braid that has more grip and holds better on slippery straight hair.
The fishtail twist is an excellent option for hair that is too silky or freshly washed to hold a standard fishtail. The twisting motion adds texture and friction that keeps the braid secure without product. This variation works on all lengths from a bob to long hair and creates a slightly different pattern from the classic herringbone.
15. The Micro Fishtail Braid
The micro fishtail uses extremely thin sections — individual strands or tiny clusters — crossed in the fishtail pattern to create a delicate, intricate braid that looks like woven fabric. The micro version takes longer but produces the tightest, most detailed herringbone pattern. The finished braid is thin and rope-like rather than wide and flat.
The micro fishtail is a beautiful accent braid — wear it as one thin braid framing the face alongside loose hair, or weave several micro fishtails throughout a half-up style. The thin braid also wraps beautifully around a ponytail base or a bun for decorative detail. The micro fishtail requires patience but creates the most refined result.
16. The Fishtail With Ribbon
A ribbon or thin scarf woven through the fishtail braid adds color, texture, and a decorative element. Thread the ribbon through the starting point and include it as one of the crossing sections — the ribbon appears at regular intervals throughout the herringbone pattern, creating a woven, tapestry-like effect.
Ribbon fishtails are one of the most popular holiday and party braids because the ribbon can match an outfit, add a metallic accent, or introduce a pop of color. Velvet ribbon for winter events, silk ribbon for weddings, and thin scarves for summer festivals each create a completely different aesthetic with the same technique. The ribbon also adds grip on slippery hair.
17. The Inverted Fishtail
The inverted fishtail crosses sections under rather than over — the same principle that separates a Dutch braid from a French braid. The result is a raised, three-dimensional herringbone that sits on top of the hair rather than lying flat against it. The inverted version is more visible and creates a more dramatic, sculptural line.
The inverted fishtail is ideal when you want the braid to be the focal point of the style — it stands out rather than blending in. It works particularly well as a single centerback braid on long hair where the raised pattern catches light. Pancaking the inverted fishtail creates an even more dramatic, wide, textural piece.
18. The Fishtail Pigtails
Two fishtail braids starting behind each ear and hanging freely create playful, youthful pigtails with the herringbone texture. Unlike the double fishtails that start at the crown, pigtails begin lower and hang alongside the face and shoulders. The lower starting point creates a more relaxed, casual feeling.
Fishtail pigtails are a fun summer and festival style that keeps hair off the neck while adding textural interest. They work on medium and long hair and look best when loosened and pancaked for a thick, chunky effect. Teens and women in their twenties gravitate toward this playful variation.
19. The Fishtail Accent Braid
A single thin fishtail braid woven into otherwise loose hair creates an accent detail that adds bohemian texture without committing to a full braided style. Braid a small section at the temple or behind the ear and let it hang alongside the loose hair. The herringbone pattern peeks through the free-flowing lengths.
The fishtail accent is the easiest style on this list — it takes under two minutes and transforms a simple straight or wavy style into something more interesting. Multiple accent fishtails scattered throughout loose hair create a festival-inspired look. The accent braid also works on short hair and bobs where a full fishtail is not possible.
20. The Fishtail Braid-Out Waves
Fishtail braids slept in overnight and unraveled in the morning create a specific wave pattern different from traditional braid-outs — the herringbone crossing produces tighter, more zigzag waves than the smooth S-waves of a three-strand braid. The fishtail braid-out creates texture that looks like natural wavy hair.
The fishtail braid-out is one of the best heat-free curl methods — braid damp hair before bed, sleep comfortably, and unravel to defined waves in the morning. Two loose fishtails create body waves; four tighter fishtails create more defined texture. A texturizing spray after unraveling sets the pattern. This technique works on every texture from straight to curly.
21. The Wrapped Fishtail Ponytail
A fishtail braid that wraps around the base of a ponytail creates a decorative cuff of herringbone texture that conceals the elastic and adds sculptural detail. Braid a small section, wrap it around the ponytail base, and pin underneath. The rest of the ponytail hangs freely with the fishtail accent at the crown.
The wrapped fishtail ponytail elevates a basic ponytail into a styled, intentional look in under three minutes. It works on high ponytails, low ponytails, and side ponytails. For a more elaborate version, fishtail-braid the entire ponytail below the wrapped base. This is a polished option for work and casual party events alike.
22. The Fishtail Chignon
A fishtail braid folded under itself at the nape and pinned into a flat, horizontal chignon creates one of the most elegant formal updos. The herringbone pattern is visible across the width of the chignon, adding the intricate texture that a simple twisted chignon lacks.
The fishtail chignon is a wedding and black-tie staple — sophisticated enough for the most formal occasions while showing the craftsmanship of the braid. A veil or decorative comb inserts above the chignon beautifully. The fishtail's flat profile makes it comfortable to lean against a chair. Leave face-framing tendrils free for a softer, romantic version.
23. The Fishtail Dutch Crown
Two inverted fishtail braids — one from each temple — that wrap around the back and pin at opposite sides create a Dutch fishtail crown. The raised, three-dimensional herringbone circles the entire head like a sculptural halo. The inverted technique lifts the braid off the surface for maximum visibility.
The fishtail Dutch crown is the most elaborate style on this list and one of the most show-stopping braided updos possible. It requires long hair or hair extensions to complete the full circle with two braids. This is a wedding and holiday statement style that commands attention. Flowers or jeweled pins woven through the crown add bridal elegance.
24. The Chunky Pull-Through Fishtail
The pull-through fishtail uses stacked elastics rather than traditional braiding — small ponytails stacked on top of each other with each upper section pulled through the one below, arranged in a fishtail-like alternating pattern. The result mimics the herringbone without any actual braiding technique, making it the easiest style on this list.
The pull-through method is ideal for beginners who love the fishtail look but have not yet mastered the crossover technique. It also holds more securely on fine hair that slips out of traditional braids. Pull each section outward after threading for a chunky, voluminous fishtail effect. See our braided hairstyles guide for more faux-braid techniques.
25. The Fishtail With Cuffs and Rings
Metal hair cuffs, rings, and charms threaded onto sections before or after braiding add an edgy, decorated quality to any fishtail variation. Space the cuffs at even intervals along the braid for a rhythmic pattern, or cluster them at the top for a cascading effect. Gold cuffs add warmth, silver adds edge, and mixed metals create a bohemian quality.
Hair jewelry transforms a simple fishtail into a statement piece for parties, festivals, and holiday events. The fishtail's flat, visible pattern is the ideal canvas for accessories because each section is wide enough to hold a cuff securely. This decorated fishtail works on every hair color — particularly striking on black and silver hair where the metal contrasts dramatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fishtail braid for beginners?
Divide your hair into two equal sections. Take a thin strand from the outside of the right section and cross it over to the left section. Take a thin strand from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Repeat, alternating sides, until you reach the ends. Secure with an elastic. The key is keeping even tension and using thin, consistent sections. Start with dry, second-day hair for maximum grip — freshly washed hair tends to slip. See our braided hairstyles guide for more beginner-friendly braid tutorials.
How long does a fishtail braid take?
A basic side fishtail takes three to five minutes. A French fishtail takes five to eight minutes. Elaborate styles like the fishtail crown or Dutch fishtail crown take ten to fifteen minutes. The micro fishtail with very thin sections can take fifteen to twenty minutes. Speed improves dramatically with practice — most people halve their time after a week of daily practice.
Does the fishtail braid work on short hair?
The fishtail needs at least chin-length hair to hold, so a bob is the minimum length. On shorter hair, the fishtail accent braid — a single thin braid woven alongside loose hair — is the most practical option. A medium-length lob produces a short, charming fishtail. The most dramatic fishtails require shoulder length or longer.
Nadia Okafor
Contributing Stylist
Nadia Okafor is a licensed cosmetologist with a decade behind the chair. She focuses on textured and curly hair, heat-free styling, and scalp health, and she translates salon-room technique into steps you can follow at your bathroom mirror.
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