A fishbone braid, also called a fishtail, is made by crossing tiny pieces from the outside of two sections into the middle. This creates a fine, herringbone pattern that looks more intricate than a standard plait. This gallery shows nineteen ways to wear it. There are long loose braids, half-up styles for the office, fishbone pigtails with a printed headband, and messy crowns and double braided updos. More polished looks include a diagonal French fishbone tucked under one ear, a golden crown on blonde hair and tight braids with extensions.
Length and texture matter. Fishbone braids show their pattern best on long hair, since the many small crossovers use up length quickly. Thick hair gives a bold, chunky plait, while fine hair can look fuller if you gently pull the edges apart after braiding. Highlights and ombré colour make the weave stand out even more.
Think about the occasion too. Loose, messy fishbones suit everyday wear and casual trips, while tight, pinned versions hold up well at weddings and formal events.
1. Long and Loose Braid
Gathered loosely through the middle and tighter at the ends, this long fishbone braid has a relaxed, flowing shape. It is a fun choice for long, thick hair. A braided strip along the top adds a mohawk-style detail.
Inspiration: @Instagram
2. Half Up Fishbone
A half-up fishbone is more casual than a full updo but still polished. It works well for the office and can easily carry on into the evening. Keep the lengths loose with a soft wave.
Inspiration: @Instagram
3. Messy and Creative
One or two side fishbone braids lead into a messy low bun here. It is a fresh way to lift hair off the shoulders. Loosen the braids slightly for a relaxed, textured finish. Pin the bun loosely for a soft finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
4. Fishbone Pigtails
Two fishbone braids on very long hair turn pigtails into a grown-up style. A tribal-print headband adds colour and personality. The look is modern, playful and easy to wear. Keep the braids slightly loose so the pattern looks wider and softer.
Inspiration: @Instagram
5. Crown with a Twist
Messy fishbone braids pinned up into a crown-like updo keep hair neatly out of the way. The undone texture is very current. It is a practical choice for outdoor trips such as camping. Pull a few strands loose around the face.
Inspiration: @Instagram
6. French Fishbone
Take a French braid up a notch by working it as a fishbone and finishing in a messy bun. The style looks impressive yet is simple enough to learn. It suits both day and evening.
Inspiration: @Instagram
7. Mile Long Braid
Very long hair is perfect for a French-fishbone fusion. The braid is elegant enough for formal events but still relaxed for everyday wear. A clear elastic keeps the focus on the pattern. Pancake the edges gently to show off the pattern.
Inspiration: @Instagram
8. Messy Braided Ponytail
Part braid, part ponytail, this messy style is almost impossible to get wrong because its charm lies in the undone finish. A strand wrapped around the base hides the elastic. It is great for busy days.
Inspiration: @Instagram
9. Side Braid Beauty
Echoing goddess braids, this side fishbone flows into a low ponytail. Wrap a few strands around the elastic and pin them underneath to hide it. The result looks neat and polished. Leave a few face-framing strands out to soften the look.
Inspiration: @Instagram
10. Embellish Your Updo
A pinned-up fishbone looks even prettier with a decorative accent. Add a jewelled clip, a fresh flower or a statement pin. It is an easy way to make a simple updo special. Choose a piece that matches your outfit or event.
Inspiration: @Instagram
11. Crown of Braids
Fishbone braids are a practical way to keep black hair up and out of the way in hot weather. A salon braider can create a long-lasting style that you can wear for weeks. The crown shape looks elegant and regal.
Inspiration: @Instagram
12. Tight Black Braids
Tight fishbone braids with extensions are complex and best left to an experienced braider. The fine pattern looks striking on black hair. Keep the scalp moisturised and sleep in a satin scarf to make the style last.
Inspiration: @Instagram
13. Crowned and Twisted
Simple twisted braids can still look fancy. This crowned style holds without any pins, unlike many pulled-back looks. It is quick to do and very secure. Simply twist two sections around the head and tuck the ends in neatly. It works best on medium to long hair.
Inspiration: @Instagram
14. Diagonal Braid Updo
A French fishbone tucked and pinned under one ear creates a sleek, diagonal updo. It is perfect for a formal occasion and stands out from more common styles. Despite the polished look, it is fairly easy to do.
Inspiration: @Instagram
15. Double Messy Braid Updo
Two fishbone braids blend into a single messy updo here. The braid can be made thick or thin and placed almost anywhere. A little messiness only adds to the charm. Secure the ends under the updo with a few crossed pins.
Inspiration: @Instagram
16. Thick Golden Crown
A thick fishbone plait wraps over the head like a golden crown on blonde hair. Long hair works best, though a clip-in braid can be used for shorter lengths. Pin it securely at the back.
Inspiration: @Instagram
17. Color Showcase
Fishbone braids show off layers of colour beautifully. Highlights or lowlights look especially striking in a low braided bun. It is a great chance to show off a new colour job. Pull the braid apart slightly so more of the colour shows.
Inspiration: @Instagram
18. Gathered and Stretched
Two small side sections are braided into a fishbone at the back of this half-up style. Gently pull at the braid in places to vary its tightness and make it look more intricate. Ombre colour adds extra appeal.
Inspiration: @Instagram
19. Adult Side Braid
Side braids are practical for long hair but can look young. A detailed fishbone gives the side braid a grown-up, elegant finish. It suits all ages and occasions. Pull the outer edges gently to widen it, and secure the end with a clear elastic.
Inspiration: @Instagram
How to braid a basic fishbone
- Brush out tangles and divide the hair into two equal sections.
- Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the left section, cross it over and add it to the right section.
- Repeat on the right side, taking a thin strand from the outer edge and adding it to the left.
- Keep alternating, using small, even pieces for a neat pattern, until you reach the ends. Secure with a clear elastic.
Making the pattern stand out
The thinner the strands, the finer and more detailed the herringbone looks, though it takes longer. Once the braid is secured, gently pull the outer loops outward to widen and soften the plait. This trick, often called pancaking, makes fine hair look much thicker. A light texture spray before you start gives the hair more grip and helps prevent slippage. To keep the braid in place all day, finish with a flexible hairspray rather than a stiff one.