The Side Fishtail Braid

April 10, 2013

For this tutorial, you will need:

Two elastics
Scissors

The fishtail braid may look elaborate but—here’s a secret—it’s surprisingly easy to do! Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect go-to on rushed mornings:

Steps 1 & 2: Start by brushing your hair—for a messier braid, opt for using your fingers, instead of a brush, to detangle hair while preserving hair’s natural texture.
Step 3: Create a ponytail with an elastic (Psst! This is the secret that makes this braid simple to do).
Step 4: Separate the pony tail into two sections.
Step 5: Take a small piece from the outer edge of the first section and cross it over to the inner edge of the second.
Step 6: Take a new piece from the outer edge of the second section and pass it to the inner edge of the first.
Steps 7 & 8: Continue repeating steps 5 & 6: don’t overthink it—once you cross a piece over let it go and just focus on the next piece.
Step 9: Once you’ve finished your fishtail braid, secure the bottom with an elastic. Unless you plan to use a clear elastic, chose one that has a decoration attached—plain, colored elastics are too noticeable and distract from the delicacy of the braid.
Step 10: Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut the elastic at the top of the braid.
Voila!