Everyone loves the look of fishtail braid, but if you have ever tried by doing it yourself, you can know how frustrating it can get.
Sometimes the braid just falls apart, feels very loose and does not turn out how you can imagine it .
You might find yourself halfway through and suddenly thinking, ‘Wait…..am I messing this up?’.
If you have struggled with the fishtail braids before then don’t worry – you are in the right place for a simple, step-by-step guide that actually works.
Let’s dig in!
Why Fishtail Braids Feel Tricky
Most people struggle with fishtail braids because the movement of the hands is different from that of regular braids.
Instead of using three sections like a regular braid, this braid uses two sections – you can take small pieces and cross them over one by one.
Don’t worry if your braid is too loose and keeps falling apart – it is really common, especially when you are doing it by yourself.
If your braid ends up loose or falling apart, then you are not alone. With some practice, it becomes easier to make it right, neat and tight.
Related: How to Do a Dragon Braid for Beginners
What You Need Before You Start
You do not need anything fancy to do a fishtail braid, but a few basics make it much easier.
Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to removed the knots from your hair before you start braiding.
You will need two hair elastics – one for the base if you want extra control, and the other one to secure the ends.
Use a dry shampoo or textured spray if your hair is too smooth – this will help the braid to stay in place.
Just keep a mirror close if you are doing it by yourself – it really helps.
That’s it, simple tools, no extra fuss.
Related: How to Do a Slick Back Bun Fast
Step-by-Step: Fishtail Braid on Yourself
Following are the few steps..
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
First, brush your hairs with a wide-tooth comb or brush to detangle the knots – it will make the braiding process too easier.
Step 2: Divide Into Two Sections
Divide your hairs in two equal sections – one for your left hand and the other one for your right hand.
Hold down each section very tightly, when you start the braiding.
Step 3: Start the Braid
Use your fingers to take the small thin strand from the outer edge of the left section, then cross it over and add it to the inside of the right section.
Step 4: Repeat on the Other Side
Now move to the right section of the hair. Use your fingers to take the small thin strand from the outer edge of the section, then cross it over and add it to the inside of the left section.
Step 5: Continue Down
Repeat the process, always take the small thin strand from the outside, cross over and then add to the other side. Braid all the way to the bottom of your hair.
Step 6: Secure the Braid
Once you reach the end of your hair, hold down both sections very tightly and then tie the braid with a small elastic band.
Step 7: Finish the Look
Just fluff it up by pulling the braid gently to add some volume and look a bit bigger.
Related: How to Do a Messy Bun for Beginners
How to Make Your Braid Last All Day
If your fishtail always loosens or falls apart, before the day is over. Then these few small changes can make a huge difference.
- Prepare your hair with a bit of textured spray and dry shampoo – make your braid way easier to manage and prevent it from falling apart.
- Before you start the braid, tie the base with a small hair elastic band. It can help to take the braids together especially when your hair falls apart and has a lot of layers.
- Use small, even sections or even strands for crossover. It can keep the braid firm and hold its shape very long.
- Try to keep the same pressure as you go on – If you let the tension loosen, the braid can start to fall apart.
- Finish off your braid with tight and secure elastic. Make sure it is snag-free so it does not mess up with your hair.
- Avoiding touching or fussing up with your braid, Too much handling will make it loosen up or fall apart.
Simple Variations to Try
Side Fishtail
Braid your hair over one shoulder for some easy grip and more relaxed look.
Half-Up Fishtail
Want your hair out of your face but still down? Then just finish the fishtail on the top half.
Dutch Fishtail
Switch it up by crossing the hair under instead of over to stand out the braid.
Fishtail Ponytail
Secure the hair with the ponytail, then start the braid. It can prevent the hair from breaking.
Messy Fishtail
Lose the braids with your fingers and pull out a few front pieces for a relaxed look.
Conclusion
A fishtail braid needs some practice, but the steps are simple and easy to follow.
You can totally and carefully focus on even sections, steady hands and good preparation.
Do not stress about small mistakes – once the braid is done, no one can notice it.
When you want something new then you switch up the style. With a bit of practice, you will braid faster and even neater each time.
