The Fishtail Braid | Tutorial

The fishtail braid, {aka the herringbone or fishbone braid} looks extremely elaborate and time-consuming. Hence why I have never even tried to attempt it. However, after seeing a billion pictures on Pinterest and reading over a few tutorials, I figured out that it’s surprisingly simple.

 

My hair is super thick, and very lengthy these days, so having new ways to keep it out of my face when I work with clients is a must. I’ve always loved a good braid, so I’m sure this will become a go-to favorite for rushed mornings when I still have to look cute! Here’s how to do it:

 

 

• Gather your hair in the back or on the side ( side is much easier!).
  • A great suggestion I’ve seen from Lauren Conrad is to use a small clear hair tie to secure hair in place that you later cut out for a more “natural” look.
• Divide your hair into two large sections, parting straight down the middle.
  •  For a sharper (more “office” look) use a comb to part your hair evenly & brush out each section.
  •  For the tousled (aka Katniss Everdeen look) simply part it with your hands – obviously my choice.
  •  Hold one section in each hand.
• Pull a thin strand of hair from the outside of the left section.
  • Pull it over the top of the left section, and grasp it under the right section.
  • In other words, the strand of hair has gone over the left section and finishes under the right section. 

  • In general, try to use the same thickness for each strand throughout or your braid will look uneven.
  •  For a more intricate braid, use skinnier strands. (this does take more time)
  • Pulling it tighter helps you to learn the method properly; it’s pretty easy to catch on to.
• Repeat on the other side
  • Pull a skinny strand of hair from the outside of the right section, pull it over the right section, then weave it under the left section.
• Keep alternating sides, weaving over and under, until you reach the bottom of the braid. 

 




• Tie off the end with a hair tie/elastic
  • Use a think one the same color of your hair or a clear one)
  • Add a cute ribbon, barrette or charm to give it some personality or dress it up too
• Some Helpful Tips
• If you do it when your hair is dry, if you put a little water on your fingertips it can help.
• For thicker hair, consider using thicker strands for better control.
• If you leave the fishtail plait overnight, you can come out with some good waves that are looser. (Also if you braid it wet, they will stay longer!)
• Use bobby pins or hairspray to secure flyaways, especially if you do the braid on one side.