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Face shapes: Oval • Heart • Diamond
Hair length: Medium • Long • Extra Long
Hair texture: Straight • Wavy • Curly • Fine • Thick
Difficulty: Medium
Time to style: 45-60 minutes
Works with: Cathedral veils • Chapel veils • Pearl pins • Floral crowns • Hair vines
The fishtail braid brings an effortless romance that makes brides feel both confident and timelessly beautiful on their big day. Its intricate weave catches the light in photos beautifully, creating texture and dimension that looks stunning from every angle. There's something deeply personal about a fishtail—it feels handcrafted and intentional, never cookie-cutter.
Beyond its beauty, the fishtail is incredibly practical for all-day wear through ceremonies, receptions, and dancing. The tight weave holds securely without feeling stiff or uncomfortable, and it works seamlessly with veils, crowns, and floral accessories. Plus, if loose pieces fall out during the celebration, they only add to that romantic, lived-in bridal glow.
Delicate pearl hairpins scattered throughout the braid
Vintage gold or silver leaf-shaped clips at the base
Crystal-studded hair vine woven into the fishtail
Minimalist wire crown positioned above the braid
Art deco-inspired barrette at the nape
Baby's breath stems tucked into the weave for a garden wedding feel
Silk ribbon wrapped around sections of the braid for a soft, romantic touch
Cathedral veil positioned below the fishtail for dramatic length
Chapel-length veil with lace edge attached at the crown or mid-braid
Start with day-old hair or use dry shampoo for better grip and texture.
Apply texturizing spray before braiding to prevent slipping and add volume.
Secure elastic with bobby pins in an X-shape for extra hold.
Finish with flexible-hold hairspray to keep flyaways soft, not crunchy.
Prep hair with texturizing spray on dry or slightly damp hair to add grip and prevent the braid from slipping.
Divide all hair into two equal sections at the nape or desired starting point of the braid.
Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the left section, cross it over, and merge it into the right section, then repeat on the opposite side.
Continue alternating sides with small sections for an intricate weave, then secure the end with a clear elastic.
Gently pancake the braid by pulling on the edges for width and softness, then secure flyaways with pins and mist with hairspray for a romantic, textured finish.
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Absolutely! The fishtail actually creates the illusion of thickness when you gently pull apart the sections to add width. Using a texturizing spray beforehand will give fine hair extra grip and volume.
Yes, fishtail braids work beautifully with veils. Position the veil above the braid at the crown or mid-braid, and use pins to secure it without disrupting the weave.
You'll need at least shoulder-length hair, though longer hair (past the shoulders) creates a fuller, more dramatic fishtail. Extensions can be added for extra length or volume.
Yes, the tight interlocking weave of a fishtail makes it one of the most secure bridal styles. With proper prep and a strong elastic, it'll hold through dancing, hugging, and all your celebrations.