How to Make a Fishtail French Braid in 5 Easy Steps
The French braid is a sophisticated and classic hairstyle, but can be
a little bit intimidating for first-timers to do because of how
intricate it looks. If you love the look of a French braid, but is not
quite ready to practice the technique, opt for its easier variation
called the fishtail braid. Also known as the Fishbone or Herringbone
braid, this type of French braid involves less twisting even if it looks
more elaborate than the traditional braid. Since you don’t have to keep
so much hair under control when creating this look, it can be a fun
hairstyle to do.
A fishtail French braid can be created on a ponytail or as a full braid,
starting from the front of the hairline. If you haven’t mastered the
French braid yet, it is best to practice learning the Fishbone braid on
ponytails before tying full-blown braids from the hairline. To get this
look, your hair should be medium length or long. You’ll need a rat tail
comb, elastic band or bow, bobby pins and mirrors (if you’ll be working
on your own hair).
- Choose a section of hair where you want the braid to start. Most
fishtail braids begin at the hairline, so choose a central point and
divide it into two even sections. Make sure to remove tangles from
both sections by combing thoroughly.
- Cross the right section over the left one. Pull the sections
away from each other when tightening the braid. Lift a small section
of hair from the right section hairline to the middle of the braid
by using the end of a rat-tail comb. If you want a more intricate
look, pull thinner strands. If you want a more woven appearance, add
more strands. Add the new section of hair to the existing right
section and cross it over the left section, tightening the braid as
you go.
- Use the end of the rat-tail comb again when lifting some strands
of hair on the left section and drawing a line from the hairline to
the middle section. Even it out with the section you’ve lifted from
step 2. Add the lifted hair to the existing left section and cross
it over to the right section.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3, continuing to alternate right and left
sections. Make sure to tighten each plait as you progress until you
reach the hairline at the back of your neck (the nape).
- Secure the remaining hair with a hair elastic or keep the
remaining hair hanging free. You can also weave a basic braid to the
ends to hold the fishtail braid together. Avoid using office rubber
bands when holding the braid as this could damage your hair. You can
use bobby pins in securing loose or fly-away hairs.
When you weave a fishtail braid, make sure to decide on the thickness
of strands to use. Pulling in different thickness of strands could make
the braid look uneven when done. Once you’ve mastered the Fishbone
braid, you can experiment on creating a different look by crossing the
sections of hair “under” each other, instead of over each strand. To
create a loose fishtail braid, hold your hands away from the head.
Regardless of which style you want to go, the fishtail braid can be a
stunning two-strand braid to do for a casual day and even red carpet
events. |
