7 Pro Secrets To Master The Fishtail Braid Plait: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Tutorial

The fishtail braid, or fishtail plait, is one of the most stylish and intricate-looking hairstyles you can master, yet it is surprisingly simple to execute once you understand the core two-strand technique. As of December 15, 2025, this classic style remains a top trend, favored for its versatility—from a relaxed, bohemian look to an elegant, bridal updo.

This ultimate guide is designed to take you from a beginner to a braiding expert. We will not only walk you through the basic steps but also reveal the professional secrets for achieving the perfect texture, fixing common mistakes like uneven tension, and tackling the advanced French and Dutch variations.

The Essential Fishtail Braid Plait: A Step-by-Step Guide

The standard fishtail braid is a two-strand technique, unlike the traditional three-strand braid. It creates a delicate, woven pattern that resembles a fish’s skeleton, hence the name. This is the foundation you must master before moving on to more complex styles like the *French fishtail* or *Dutch fishtail*.

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What You Need for the Perfect Plait

• A brush or comb (for detangling and parting)
• Hair Elastics (clear or matching your hair color for a seamless finish)
• Texturizing Spray or Styling Cream (optional, but highly recommended for grip)
• A Mirror (especially for braiding the back of your head)

Step-by-Step: The Classic Side Fishtail

Starting with a side braid makes the technique easier to see and manage, especially for beginners.

1. Prep Your Hair: Ensure your hair is fully detangled. The fishtail works best on second- or third-day hair, as it has more grip than freshly washed hair. Apply a small amount of styling cream or texturizing product for better hold.
2. Gather and Divide: Sweep all your hair over one shoulder. Gather the hair and divide it into two large, equal sections. Think of these as Section A (left) and Section B (right).
3. The Core Movement (Cross-Over): Take a very small, thin strand of hair from the outer edge of Section A (left).
4. Cross and Join: Cross this small strand over the top of Section A and join it into the inner edge of Section B. The key is to keep the strand small—the smaller the strands, the more intricate the final braid will look.
5. Repeat on the Opposite Side: Now, take a small, thin strand of hair from the outer edge of Section B (right).
6. Cross and Join: Cross this small strand over the top of Section B and join it into the inner edge of Section A.
7. Continue Braiding: Repeat steps 3–6, alternating sides, until you reach the end of your hair. Maintain consistent, even tension throughout the process to prevent strands from popping out.
8. Secure the Braid: Tie off the end with a small, clear hair elastic.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting: How to Get a Flawless Finish

Achieving a salon-quality fishtail often comes down to a few expert techniques. The difference between a messy braid and a masterpiece lies in these subtle adjustments.

Secret #1: The Power of "Pancaking"

A tight, uniform braid can look flat. To create the popular, voluminous, *Bohemian fishtail* style, gently pull and loosen the loops of the braid once it is secured. This process is called "pancaking." Start at the top and work your way down, pulling lightly on the outer edges to fatten and widen the plait. This adds incredible texture and body.

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Secret #2: Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Chunky Sections: The most frequent mistake is using sections that are too thick. This defeats the delicate, intricate weaving pattern. Always aim for strands no thicker than your pinky finger.
• Uneven Tension: If you hold one side too tight and the other too loose, the braid will look lopsided and uneven. Focus on keeping the same pressure on both Section A and Section B as you weave.
• Forgetting Prep: Straight, slippery hair is difficult to braid. Use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give the hair grip before you begin.

Advanced Variations: French and Dutch Fishtail Braids

Once you have mastered the classic side fishtail, you can elevate your skills by learning the *French fishtail* and the *Dutch fishtail*. These variations incorporate new hair into the braid as you go, creating a braid that sits flush against the scalp (French) or one that "pops out" (Dutch).

The French Fishtail Braid (The Crown Plait)

The French fishtail starts at the crown of your head, similar to a traditional French braid, but uses the two-strand fishtail technique. It is perfect for a *Half-Up Fishtail* look.

1. Start at the Crown: Grab a 3-inch section of hair from the top of your head and divide it into two main sections (A and B).
2. First Weave: Take a small strand from the outer edge of Section A, cross it over, and join it to Section B.
3. Add New Hair (The French Element): Before repeating on the opposite side, pick up a small, new section of loose hair from the side of your head. Add this new hair to Section B.
4. Second Weave and Add: Take a small strand from the outer edge of the now-larger Section B, cross it over, and join it to Section A. Pick up a small, new section of loose hair and add it to Section A.
5. Continue: Repeat the process—Weave, Add New Hair, Weave, Add New Hair—until you run out of loose hair to add. Finish the rest of the length with a standard fishtail plait.

The Dutch Fishtail Braid (The Reverse Fishtail)

The Dutch fishtail is a *Reverse Fishtail Braid* where the strands are crossed underneath instead of over the top. This technique makes the braid stand out from the head, creating a striking 3D effect.

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1. The Under-Crossing Rule: Start with two sections (A and B) at the desired location (e.g., the top of the head for a *Double Dutch Fishtail*).
2. The Core Movement (Under-Crossing): Take a small strand from the outer edge of Section A and cross it underneath Section A, joining it to the inner edge of Section B.
3. Repeat Underneath: Take a small strand from the outer edge of Section B and cross it underneath Section B, joining it to the inner edge of Section A.
4. Adding New Hair (If Dutch French): If you are doing a Dutch French Fishtail, incorporate new hair into the active section (A or B) before crossing the small strand underneath, just like in the French variation.
5. Finish: Continue crossing strands underneath until complete, then secure with a hair elastic. The resulting braid will appear to be sitting on top of the hair.

Fishtail Braid Entities and Topical Authority Checklist

To ensure you have mastered this intricate weaving technique, you should be familiar with these related entities and concepts:

• The Two-Strand Technique: The core difference from the three-strand braid.
• Tension Control: The key to a neat, professional finish.
• Pancaking: The technique for adding volume and a bohemian texture.
• French Braid: The technique of adding hair from the sides.
• Dutch Braid: The technique of crossing strands underneath for a raised effect.
• Side Fishtail: The easiest starting point for beginners.
• Half-Up Fishtail: A popular variation that only braids the top section of hair.
• Crown Braid: A circular braid often achieved using the French or Dutch technique.
• Hair Elastics: Essential tool for securing the end.
• Texturizing Spray: Product used to add grip to slippery hair.
• Heat Protectant: Recommended if you straighten hair before braiding.
• Uneven Sections: A common mistake to be avoided.
• Reverse Fishtail: Another name for the Dutch fishtail.
• Bohemian Fishtail: A loose, relaxed style achieved through pancaking.
• Intricate Weaving: The visual characteristic of the final look.