17 Photos That Will Inspire You To Learn How To Fishtail Braid

Learning how to do a fishtail braid is one of our greatest accomplishments. We're not joking.

The intricate plait initially intimidated us, and that fear forced us to settle for a simple French braid or messy milkmaid braid. But after putting in plenty of practice and following this step-by-step tutorial by celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan, we were able to recreate fishtail braids just like those worn by Blake Lively, Selena Gomez, Lucy Liu and other stars. 

Don't just take our word for it. Below are 17 stunning fishtail braid hairstyles, plus styling tips and product suggestions to help you become a braiding pro. 

• Dania Ramirez

  Slick hair back into a ponytail with a boar bristle brush and a hair shine pomade like Keratin Complex Iconic Polish. Then, create a fishtail braid, making sure to leave a piece of hair out so that you can conceal your ponytail holder.
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• • Jeannie Mai

    Elevate your pompadour with a sassy fishtail braid. To keep frizz at bay, spritz strands with a firm hold hairspray like Suave Luxe Style Infusion Anti-Humidity Spray. 

Darby Stanchfield

Create two fishtail braids at the corner of each side of the nape of the neck and two regular braids with the hair that was left over. Dust with Kevin Murphy Volumising Powder Puff for texture and thickness, and pull braids apart before pinning down.

Blake Lively

Dry shampoo will be your best friend for achieving this heavily textured fishtail braid ponytail. The product is key to getting that messy finish. Gently separate the plait to add to its lived-in aesthetic. 

• Audrina Patridge

  You can instantly add a hint of rose gold to your locks with a hair color spray or eyeshadow. Check out these temporary dye tips from beauty vlogger NaturallyTash.

• Laverne Cox

  This fishtail braid hairstyle is a simple trick to breathe new life into an old blowout. Be sure to start braiding below the ear to keep it fresh and fun. 

Bella Thorne

For a half-up, half-down hairdo that doesn't read too bridal, try this take on the look which combines loose curls and a fishtail braid.

Jessica Sanchez

What really makes this fishtail braid hairstyle stand out (besides those gold statement earrings) is the barely-there side part. It's subtlety gives way to that gorgeous braid and really helps to open up her face. 

• Meta Golding

  This fishtail braid pony is one big, beautiful mess. But in a good way. If your hair is on the finer side, simply add extensions to achieve a fuller finish.

• Melissa Rivers

  Soft, side-swept bangs add a sophisticated touch to this disheveled fishtail braid. Maintain the sleekness on top with Wella Professionals Enrich Straight Leave In Cream.

• Margot Robbie

  Bye-bye, boring ponytail! The placement of the fishtail braid adds just enough interest so that it doesn't compete with such an intricate dress.
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Phillipa Soo

Start by adding texture by curling your hair with the Sarah Potempa Beachwaver S1. Fashion a Dutch fishtail braid, starting on one side of your head and work your way around. Secure the ends with a bobby pin.

Demetria McKinney

For deep-set waves, first prep hair with hot rollers. Then create a fishtail braid, starting from one side of the head and working your way to the opposite side.

Maria Sharapova

Create a clean side part and add a flexible styling product before blow-drying. Smooth the roots to the ends with the Sarah Potempa Ceramic Styling Iron and Blow Out Attachments to add volume and movement to the right side. On the clean, tighter side create a Dutch French fishtail by separating hair in two pieces.

Helen Svedin

Instead of trying to hide your elastic holder at the end of your fishtail braid, match it to your outfit.

Emily Osment

No elastic holder? No problem. Secure your fishtail braid by wrapping a piece of hair around the end.

Eva Longoria

Anyone with wavy or curly hair would look great with this fishtail braid, which plays up that natural texture.

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