20 Fishtail Hairstyles for Every Occasion and Texture
20 stunning fishtail hairstyles from casual side braids to elegant updos — step-by-step techniques for every hair length, texture, and skill level.
HairLysia Editorial · Researched, written, and reviewed by the HairLysia editorial team.
Updated May 30, 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 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 from root to tip.
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, making it ideal for warm weather.
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 that defines this look.
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 for a seamless finish.
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 after braiding.
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 that photograph beautifully.
6. The Half-Crown Fishtail
The half-crown fishtail arcs a slim braided band across the back of the head — from just behind one ear, around the curve of the occipital bone, to the other side — and then gathers everything into one long fishtail that falls down the back. It reads like a crown without ever circling the full head, which is exactly what makes it achievable: the band only has to travel the distance you can comfortably reach behind you, and the long braid below hides where the two halves meet.
The half-crown fishtail is a stunning wedding and party style for anyone who wants the intricacy of an updo without pinning the lengths away. The tight herringbone of the band contrasts beautifully against the softer, pancaked braid below, and a few loosened tendrils at the nape keep the whole thing from reading severe. Bobby pins tucked under the band hold it flat all evening, and fresh flowers or jeweled pins pressed into the woven seam elevate it for bridal styling or holiday events.
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 that works for both casual and dressed-up occasions.
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 or pin 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 and flows freely below.
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 for a more organic, polished look.
10. The Stacked Side Fishtails
Rather than one braid, the stacked side fishtails run three or four slim fishtails side by side from the hairline, all swept over one shoulder and left to hang in parallel. Part the section into narrow vertical channels, braid each one on its own so the herringbone stays crisp, and finish the ends with small clear elastics that disappear against the hair. The braids sit tight to the head at the top and separate into distinct ropes as they fall past the shoulder.
The stacked side fishtails are one of the most striking styles on this list because repetition does all the work — each parallel braid catches light at a slightly different angle, which makes the effect extraordinary on highlighted or multi-toned hair where the herringbone alternates between pale and deep. Sweeping everything to one side leaves one ear and the jawline exposed, so this is a natural choice for outdoor weddings and summer events where you want hair off your neck without committing to a pinned updo.
11. 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 that makes this a bold statement style.
The fishtail mohawk 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. See our dragon tail guide for more mohawk-style braids.
12. 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 and add personal character to the style.
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 that looks better the more imperfect it becomes.
13. 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 that tends to slide out of standard fishtails.
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 that photographs with beautiful dimension.
14. The Chunky Fed-In Fishtail
The chunky fed-in fishtail builds the herringbone from thick sections rather than thin ones, picking up new hair from each side as it travels down the back of the head. The wide chevrons read clearly from across a room — where a fine fishtail looks like woven fabric, this one looks like a rope of overlapping scales. It is also considerably faster than its delicate cousins, because every crossover moves three times as much hair toward the ends.
The thick-section approach is the most beginner-friendly way to learn the feed-in motion, since a dropped strand or an uneven pass simply vanishes into the scale of the pattern. Second-day hair with a little grit holds the wide sections best; freshly washed hair lets them slide apart before you reach the nape. The same chunky braid can be started below a ponytail base for a sportier finish, or coiled into a bun once you reach the ends for a textural evening shape.
15. The Fishtail With Ribbon
A ribbon or thin scarf woven through the fishtail braid adds color, texture, and a decorative element that transforms the braid into an accessorized statement piece. 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, making it both decorative and functional.
16. 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 that adds a carefree energy to any outfit.
17. 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, adding subtle dimension.
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 with minimal effort. The accent braid also works on short hair and bobs where a full fishtail is not possible.
18. The Half-Fishtail Ponytail
The half-fishtail ponytail is a braid that quits early and lets the rest go. Gather the hair at the nape, fishtail-braid three or four inches — just enough for the herringbone to establish itself — then stop, band it discreetly, and let the remaining length spill out in loose waves. The short braided segment sits like a woven cuff at the top of the ponytail while everything below stays soft and undone.
This is the most forgiving style on the list, because you only have to braid neatly for a few inches before the waves take over and hide every inconsistency. It takes under three minutes and turns a plain low ponytail into something that looks considered, which makes it a polished option for work and casual party events alike. Pull the braided segment wide before you band it, and tug a few pieces free at the temples so the top reads relaxed rather than scraped back.
19. 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 flat profile makes it comfortable for events where you lean back against a chair.
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 for bridal styling. Leave face-framing tendrils free for a softer, romantic version that balances the structured elegance of the pinned braid.
20. 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, creating a more dramatic version than the standard fishtail crown.
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 from every angle. Flowers or jeweled pins woven through the crown add bridal elegance that photographs beautifully.
How to Create a Fishtail Braid — Video Tutorial
The fishtail braid looks complicated but the technique is one of the simplest in braiding — you only need two strands and one repeating motion. The challenge for beginners is usually keeping consistent tension and pulling strands of even thickness from each side, which is why watching the technique in motion is far more helpful than reading written instructions alone. Once you see the rhythm of the crossover, the muscle memory develops quickly.
The tutorial below demonstrates the complete fishtail technique from start to finish, including how to section the hair, the crossover motion, maintaining even tension throughout the braid, and the all-important pancaking step at the end that transforms a thin, tight fishtail into a wide, editorial-quality braid. The video also covers common mistakes beginners make — like pulling strands from the wrong side or losing the two-strand separation mid-braid — and how to correct them without starting over. Whether you are attempting your first classic side fishtail or practicing the French fishtail feed-in technique, the foundational crossover demonstrated here applies to every variation on this list.
Video credit: @EverydayHairInspiration on YouTube — an excellent channel for step-by-step braiding tutorials. We recommend subscribing for more fishtail and braid technique breakdowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 and 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. Watch the tutorial above for a visual walkthrough. See our braided hairstyles guide for more beginner-friendly techniques.
A basic side fishtail takes three to five minutes once you have the technique down. A French fishtail takes five to eight minutes because of the feed-in complexity. 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 braiding time after a week of daily practice.
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 to develop the full herringbone pattern.
HairLysia Editorial
Editorial Team
HairLysia Editorial is the byline for articles produced by the HairLysia team. Drafts are AI-assisted and reviewed by a human editor before publication; where we cite research, we link the primary source so you can check it yourself. Read our editorial policy for how we work.
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