When it comes to versatile and effortlessly chic hairstyles, fishtail braids are a timeless favorite. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back, bohemian look or a sleek and polished finish, fishtail braids can easily adapt to any occasion. Their intricate design might seem complicated at first glance, but with the right technique and a little practice, you can create stunning fishtail braids that will leave you feeling like a hairstyling pro.
Fishtail braids are not only visually striking, but they also offer a modern twist on the classic braid. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event, attending a casual brunch with friends, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, there’s a fishtail braid for every occasion. From voluminous braids with added texture to sleek and sophisticated styles, this list of 23 stunning fishtail braid hairstyles will have you falling head over heels for the beauty and versatility of this iconic style.
Get ready to explore a variety of fishtail braid options, from playful color accents and romantic waves to detailed braids with accessories that elevate your hairstyle to the next level. No matter your hair type or personal style, you’re sure to find a fishtail braid that suits your needs and makes you feel fabulous.
1. Voluminous Fishtail Braids Hairstyles
Description:
A voluminous fishtail side braid is all about achieving fullness and texture while keeping the hairstyle elegant. Perfect for weddings, parties, or any formal event, this look adds a dramatic flair by pulling the braid to one side, creating a statement.
How to Style:
- Begin by brushing your hair to one side and apply a texturizing spray to give it grip and volume.
- Split the hair into two sections and start creating a fishtail braid by crossing small strands from the outer edge of each section over to the opposite side.
- Continue braiding until you reach the ends, securing it with a clear elastic.
- Gently pull on the braid to loosen it and create a voluminous, fuller look.
- Finish with a light hairspray to hold the style in place while keeping the braid soft and textured.
2. Fishtail Braid with Color Pop
Description:
This style incorporates a fun pop of color into the traditional fishtail braid, perfect for adding personality to your look. Whether you’re using colored extensions or temporary color spray, this braid is playful and vibrant.
How to Style:
- Start by applying the temporary color spray or clipping in colored extensions where you want the pop of color to show.
- Separate the hair into two sections and begin fishtail braiding, pulling strands from the outside of each section and crossing them over.
- As you braid, make sure the colored sections weave in for a bold effect.
- Once you finish, secure the end with a small elastic and gently tug on the braid to loosen it.
- Add shine spray to enhance the vibrancy of the color and smooth any flyaways.
3. Coral-Accented Fishtail Braid
Description:
The coral-accented fishtail braid is a perfect way to add a beachy, tropical touch to your hairstyle. By weaving in coral-colored ribbons or accessories, you create a refreshing, summer-ready look.
How to Style:
- Start by sectioning your hair into two parts and securing coral-colored ribbon at the top of your braid.
- Begin braiding in a fishtail pattern, incorporating the ribbon into each section of the braid as you go.
- Continue braiding until you reach the end and secure it with a small elastic, allowing the ribbon to peek through.
- Gently pull apart the braid for a fuller appearance, and use a beach wave spray to give your hair a relaxed, summery vibe.
4. Floral Fishtail Braid with Waves
Description:
The floral fishtail braid with waves combines romantic waves with intricate braiding and fresh or faux flowers for an ethereal look. Ideal for weddings or garden parties, this style is soft, elegant, and delicate.
How to Style:
- Curl your hair in loose waves using a curling iron or wand, and gently brush through to soften them.
- Section off the top half of your hair and create a fishtail braid, securing the ends with a clear elastic.
- Weave small flowers into the braid, securing them with bobby pins.
- Leave the rest of your hair loose and wavy, applying a light-hold hairspray to keep the flowers in place while maintaining the softness of the waves.
5. Crisp Double Dutch Fishtail Braids
Description:
Crisp double Dutch fishtail braids offer a sporty yet polished look that’s ideal for everything from festivals to casual outings. The neatness of the Dutch braids combined with the fishtail technique makes this hairstyle stand out.
How to Style:
- Begin by parting your hair down the middle into two equal sections.
- Start Dutch braiding (crossing strands under rather than over) each side, starting at the front and working your way back.
- Once you reach the nape of your neck, switch to a fishtail braid for the remainder of the length and secure with elastics.
- Finish by pulling gently on the braids to add texture and volume. Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the style intact all day.
6. Side Fishtail Braid with Bow Accent
Description:
A side fishtail braid with a bow accent adds a cute, feminine touch to the traditional braid. The bow brings a playful and youthful vibe to the look, perfect for casual daywear or special occasions.
How to Style:
- Brush your hair to one side and divide it into two sections.
- Begin fishtail braiding, pulling strands from the outer edges of each section and crossing them over.
- Once the braid is finished, secure it with a small elastic and tie a bow with a ribbon at the end.
- For a softer, romantic look, gently pull apart the braid for added texture.
- Set the look with a light-hold hairspray to keep the bow and braid in place.
7. Fishtail Mohawk with Braided Accents
Description:
For those who love edgy styles, the fishtail mohawk with braided accents is the perfect combination of bold and intricate. This hairstyle exudes confidence, making it great for music festivals or daring fashion statements.
How to Style:
- Section off a strip of hair down the middle of your head, leaving the sides untouched for now.
- Start creating a fishtail braid down the center, pulling the hair tight for a sleek mohawk effect.
- Once the braid is complete, secure the ends with an elastic.
- Create small braids on either side of the fishtail braid, adding texture and dimension.
- Finish with a shine spray to give your mohawk a sleek, polished finish.
8. Fishtail Braid with Soft Ponytail
Description:
A fishtail braid with a soft ponytail combines the sleekness of a braid with the relaxed, effortless look of a ponytail. This style is perfect for casual outings and gives you a polished look without being too formal.
How to Style:
- Begin by pulling your hair into a low ponytail and securing it with a hair tie.
- Take a section of hair from the ponytail and create a fishtail braid, securing the end with a clear elastic.
- Allow the rest of the ponytail to remain loose and soft, adding a wave with a curling wand if desired.
- Gently pull on the braid to create a more relaxed look and finish with a flexible hold hairspray.
9. Blue-Toned Fishtail Braid
Description:
Add a pop of vibrant color to your fishtail braid with blue tones, creating a bold and eye-catching look. This is a great way to experiment with temporary color without a permanent commitment.
How to Style:
- Apply a temporary blue hair color spray or clip-in extensions to sections of your hair.
- Divide your hair into two sections and begin fishtail braiding, ensuring the blue sections are evenly distributed throughout the braid.
- Secure the braid with a clear elastic and lightly tug at the edges to create a voluminous look.
- Use a shine spray to enhance the vibrancy of the blue tones and keep the braid looking sleek.
10. Casual Fishtail Braid for Everyday
Description:
A casual fishtail braid is perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends, or just lounging at home. This relaxed style keeps your hair out of the way while still looking effortlessly chic.
How to Style:
- Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles.
- Divide your hair into two sections and begin braiding in the fishtail pattern, pulling small pieces from the outer edges of each section over to the opposite side.
- Braid all the way down and secure with a small elastic.
- Gently pull on the braid to give it a looser, more casual look, allowing a few face-framing strands to fall out for a relaxed vibe.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep the braid intact without looking too polished.
11. Detailed Fishtail Braid with Volume
Description:
For a more glamorous take on the traditional fishtail braid, this style incorporates extra volume and detailed braiding for a red-carpet-ready look. This is ideal for special events or when you want to add a dramatic touch to your hairstyle.
How to Style:
- Apply volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush to lift your roots.
- Once dry, section your hair into two halves and begin a fishtail braid, focusing on pulling small, intricate sections for added detail.
- As you braid, tug gently on the edges to create more volume and texture throughout the braid.
- Secure the ends with an elastic and set the style with a firm-hold hairspray to keep the volume in place all day.
12. Half-Up Fishtail Braid with Curls
Description:
This half-up fishtail braid with curls combines the elegance of a braid with soft, romantic curls, making it a perfect hairstyle for formal events or a night out. The combination of the braid and loose curls adds dimension and texture.
How to Style:
- Curl your hair using a curling wand or iron, creating loose, soft waves.
- Section off the top half of your hair and create a fishtail braid, securing it with a small elastic once you reach the end.
- Allow the rest of your hair to remain loose in soft curls.
- Gently pull on the braid to give it a fuller look and finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the curls bouncy and the braid in place.
13. Twisted Fishtail Braid
Description:
A twisted fishtail braid takes the classic braid and gives it a unique, twisted effect, adding a modern and playful twist to the traditional style. This is a fun option for casual outings or daytime events.
How to Style:
- Part your hair in the middle and divide it into two sections.
- Start twisting each section before creating a fishtail braid, which will give your braid a unique twisted look.
- Braid all the way down and secure with a small elastic.
- Gently pull apart the braid for a looser, more voluminous appearance.
- Finish with a texturizing spray to give the braid a soft, lived-in look.
14. Side-Swept Fishtail with a Relaxed Bun
Description:
For a more relaxed, boho-chic vibe, the side-swept fishtail braid with a relaxed bun is the perfect hairstyle. This look is ideal for outdoor weddings, beach parties, or any event where you want a laid-back but stylish appearance.
How to Style:
- Begin by pulling your hair to one side and creating a fishtail braid starting at the nape of your neck.
- Secure the braid with a small elastic, leaving the bottom half loose.
- Twist the bottom of the braid into a loose, relaxed bun and secure it with bobby pins.
- Allow a few face-framing tendrils to fall out for a more undone, casual feel, and finish with a light-hold hairspray.
15. Loose Fishtail Braid with Soft Waves
Description:
Loose fishtail braids paired with soft waves create a romantic and effortless look. This style is perfect for daytime outings or casual events where you want to look polished but still relaxed.
How to Style:
- Start by curling your hair in soft waves using a curling iron or wand.
- Gently brush through the curls to soften them and create a more natural texture.
- Part your hair into two sections and begin fishtail braiding from the nape of your neck.
- Once the braid is complete, gently pull it apart to loosen it and blend with the waves.
- Secure the end with a small elastic and spritz with a flexible hold hairspray to maintain the softness and volume.
16. Tight and Sleek Fishtail Braid
Description:
The tight and sleek fishtail braid is a sharp, modern look that works perfectly for professional settings or when you want a more polished and structured style. This braid keeps everything in place while still looking stylish.
How to Style:
- Apply a smoothing serum to your hair and brush it through to eliminate frizz.
- Part your hair into two sections and start creating a tight fishtail braid from the top of your head down to the ends.
- Make sure the braid is tight and sleek, with no loose strands.
- Secure the end with an elastic and finish with a shine-enhancing hairspray to keep the braid sleek and smooth.
17. Sleek Fishtail Braid
Description:
A sleek fishtail braid offers a modern, minimalist take on the classic braid. This hairstyle is ideal for when you want to look effortlessly chic with a sleek, polished finish.
How to Style:
- Start by applying a heat protectant and using a straightener to smooth out any waves or frizz.
- Section your hair into two halves and create a fishtail braid, pulling small pieces from each section over to the other.
- Keep the braid tight and smooth, securing it with a clear elastic at the end.
- Use a small amount of smoothing serum to tame any flyaways and finish with a shine spray for a glossy, sleek look.
18. Half-Up Fishtail with Loose Curls
Description:
A half-up fishtail with loose curls is the perfect blend of structure and flow. This style gives you the best of both worlds—romantic curls with a beautifully woven fishtail braid.
How to Style:
- Curl your hair into soft, loose curls using a large-barrel curling iron.
- Take a section from the top half of your hair and create a fishtail braid, securing it with a small elastic.
- Let the bottom half of your hair remain loose in curls, blending the braid with the rest of your hair.
- Gently tug at the braid to give it a fuller look, and finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the curls soft and bouncy.
19. Fishtail Braid with Floral Accent
Description:
Add a feminine, ethereal touch to your fishtail braid by incorporating floral accents. This style is perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to channel your inner flower child.
How to Style:
- Start by creating a fishtail braid down the back or side of your head.
- Once the braid is complete, secure it with a small elastic and gently pull on the edges to give it a fuller appearance.
- Place fresh or faux flowers along the braid, securing them with bobby pins.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the flowers in place while allowing your braid to remain soft and voluminous.
20. Side-Swept Fishtail Updo
Description:
This elegant side-swept fishtail updo is the perfect combination of sophistication and creativity. It’s ideal for formal occasions when you want to keep your hair up but still maintain a stylish, intricate look.
How to Style:
- Sweep your hair to one side and begin fishtail braiding from the nape of your neck.
- Secure the braid with a small elastic once you reach the end.
- Roll the braid into a low bun and secure it with bobby pins.
- Leave a few tendrils of hair loose around your face for a soft, romantic touch, and finish with a medium-hold hairspray to keep the updo in place.
21. Fishtail Crown with Low Bun
Description:
The fishtail crown with a low bun is a regal and romantic hairstyle that adds an elegant touch to any look. This style is ideal for formal events or when you want to create a timeless, classic appearance.
How to Style:
- Start by parting your hair and creating a fishtail braid around the crown of your head.
- Once the braid is complete, gather the rest of your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
- Secure the bun with bobby pins and allow a few face-framing strands to fall for a softer look.
- Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure your braid stays in place and your bun remains secure.
22. Voluminous Fishtail Braid with Curls
Description:
A voluminous fishtail braid paired with loose curls creates a look that’s both glamorous and effortlessly chic. This is a perfect hairstyle for when you want to make a statement with bold volume and intricate braiding.
How to Style:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry using a diffuser for maximum lift.
- Curl the bottom half of your hair into loose waves.
- Section the top half of your hair and create a fishtail braid, pulling gently at the edges to create more volume.
- Allow the curls to blend with the braid for a fuller look and finish with a shine-enhancing spray.
23. Braided Pink Ombre Cascade
Description:
The braided pink ombre cascade is a bold, eye-catching hairstyle that features a pink ombre effect paired with a cascading fishtail braid. This look is perfect for those who want to experiment with color and intricate braiding techniques.
How to Style:
- Begin by dyeing your hair with a pink ombre effect, starting dark at the roots and fading to a vibrant pink at the ends.
- Part your hair and start creating a fishtail braid, allowing the ombre color to cascade through the braid.
- Pull gently on the braid for a looser, more voluminous effect and finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the braid intact while showcasing the ombre effect.
Conclusion:
Fishtail braids are the ultimate go-to hairstyle when you’re looking to add a touch of elegance, creativity, or even playfulness to your look. With so many ways to wear them—from intricate braiding techniques to incorporating accessories like ribbons, flowers, or pops of color—these braids offer endless possibilities for personal expression. No matter if you prefer a casual, everyday style or a bold, statement-making braid, fishtail braids deliver on both style and versatility.
The beauty of fishtail braids lies in their ability to transition seamlessly from day to night, from casual to formal, and from simple to intricate, depending on how you choose to style them. By following the tips and inspiration provided in this post, you’ll be able to recreate stunning fishtail braids that will have you falling in love with this timeless hairstyle.
So whether you’re heading to a special event or simply want to refresh your everyday hair routine, don’t hesitate to experiment with these 23 stunning fishtail braid hairstyles. They’re not just beautiful to look at—they’re guaranteed to turn heads and make you feel confident, chic, and absolutely fabulous.
