10 Fishtail Braid Ideas for Long Open Hairs

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I love wearing my hair down, but I always want it to look a bit more styled than just basic waves. That’s where fishtail braids come in. They let me keep my length open while adding detail, shape, and hold in the right places. In this guide, I’m sharing simple fishtail braid ideas that work for straight, wavy, and curly hair. Each style is easy to do at home, takes just a few minutes, and can be adjusted for different face shapes. I always start with clean, dry hair and keep clear elastics, pins, and a light texture spray nearby to make styling easier and longer-lasting.

Key Takeaways: Fishtail braids add detail without hiding length, suit all hair types, and can be styled quickly at home with minimal tools.

Half-Up Fishtail Cascade

I like this style when I want my hair off my face but still flowing down. A small fishtail at the crown adds height and texture, which actually helps balance round faces. It works well for both casual days and events. My pro tip is to start the braid slightly behind the hairline so the front stays smooth and not puffy.

How To Style: Take the top section, fishtail to mid-length, secure, and gently pull the braid wider. Add soft curls to the ends.
Best For: Round, heart, oval faces; all hair types.
Tools & Products: Tail comb, clear elastics, bobby pins, texturizing spray, hairspray.

Side-Swept Fishtail Fringe

When I want something quick but flattering, I go for this side-swept braid. It frames my face nicely and highlights cheekbones. The diagonal shape makes the face look slimmer, which is a big plus for round face shapes. My pro tip is to set the front section first with a brush or roller before braiding so it holds better.

How To Style: Make a deep side part, braid a front section toward the ear, and pin it under the hair. Add loose waves.
Best For: Round, oval faces; straight to wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Round brush, curling iron, clear elastics, bobby pins, hairspray.

Fishtail Crown Headband

This is one of my favorite soft and romantic looks. The braid goes across the front like a headband, keeping flyaways in place while the rest of the hair stays down. It also adds a bit of height, which helps balance face shape. My pro tip is to angle the braid slightly back so it doesn’t fall onto the forehead.

How To Style: Start above one ear, braid across to the other side, and pin the end under your hair.
Best For: Round, heart, long faces; straight or wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Tail comb, elastics, pins, texture spray.

Twin Micro Fishtail Tendrils

I use this style when I want something subtle but still styled. Two tiny braids near the part add detail without taking over the look. It’s great for keeping small front pieces in place. My pro tip is to keep the braids very short so they blend into the rest of the hair.

How To Style: Take thin sections near the part, braid a few inches, secure, and leave the rest loose.
Best For: Oval, long faces; straight or wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Micro elastics, tail comb, curling wand, light serum.

Peekaboo Fishtail Underlayer

This is a fun hidden style I like when I want something different. The braid sits underneath and shows slightly when I move. It also helps reduce bulk if my hair feels heavy. My pro tip is to place it slightly off-center so it shows naturally.

How To Style: Lift top hair, braid a thin under section, secure, and let the top layer fall back.
Best For: Heart, oval faces; thick or wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Clips, elastics, curling iron, texture spray.

Fishtail Tieback with Curtain Waves

This style feels balanced and neat while still keeping my hair down. Two small braids from each side meet at the back, creating a soft frame around the face. It works really well with curtain-style front pieces. My pro tip is to braid both sides separately and then join them so the tension stays even.

How To Style: Braid from both sides, join at the back, wrap a strand around the elastic, and add waves.
Best For: Long, oval faces; straight to wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Elastics, pins, curling iron, hairspray.

Off-Center Fishtail Waterfall

This style adds detail while still showing off texture. The waterfall effect feeds strands into the hair, and the fishtail at the back secures everything. I like it because it looks more complex than it actually is. My pro tip is to keep the dropped sections even so the pattern looks clean.

How To Style: Start a waterfall braid, then switch to a fishtail at the back and secure.
Best For: Round, heart faces; wavy or curly hair.
Tools & Products: Tail comb, elastics, pins, mousse or curl cream.

Fishtail Knot Half-Up

This is a simple but pretty half-up look I use for dinners or photos. The fishtail is tied into a small knot, adding detail without bulk. It also gives a bit of lift at the crown. My pro tip is to braid longer than needed since the knot shortens it.

How To Style: Braid a small section, tie into a knot, pin flat, and blend into open hair.
Best For: Oval, round faces; straight to wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Elastics, pins, shine spray, hairspray.

Diagonal Fishtail Accent Braid

I love this style for shaping the face. The braid runs diagonally, which helps control the front while leaving the rest open. It’s especially flattering for round faces. My pro tip is to use very small sections near the hairline for a cleaner look.

How To Style: Braid from the front diagonally to the back and pin underneath.
Best For: Round, heart faces; straight or wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Tail comb, elastics, pins, curling iron.

Boho Fishtail + Loose Curls

This is my go-to for a relaxed but styled vibe. A soft fishtail mixed with loose curls makes the hair look fuller and more textured. It’s perfect for casual events or photos. My pro tip is to curl all sections away from the face for a cleaner frame.

How To Style: Curl hair, brush into waves, braid a small section, and loosen it for volume.
Best For: Oval, long faces; straight to wavy hair.
Tools & Products: Curling iron, elastics, brush, texture spray.

Conclusion

Fishtail braids are one of the easiest ways I upgrade my everyday hair without losing length. They add just enough detail while still keeping movement and softness. I usually pick one style that fits my face shape and routine, practice it once, and then repeat it when needed. With the right sectioning and a bit of texture spray, these styles stay in place and look polished all day.