Everyone loves a good fishtail braid, let’s be honest. There are many variations of the do, and it always looks so pretty when it’s complete. Whether it’s in ponytail format, a half-up fishtail braid, to the side, or as a low braid, the options are literally endless… but it’s always fun to try something new. If you have no idea where to start, Jacquelyn, Heidi, and I teamed up so that I can really break the half up fishtail braid down for you. Following is how to do a half up fishtail braid at home on your own – I promise it’s significantly less intimidating than it looks. 

How to do a half up fishtail braid

STEP 1

Start with loose waves

STEP 2

Tie your hair half up, and create a reverse ‘topsy tail ponytail’. Essentially, you simply create a hole in the centre of your ponytail, grab the tail and pull it up and through the hole. Then, give it a good pull to tighten. 

STEP 3

Next, grab two small pieces of hair, one on each side of the pony tail, and create an ‘X’ by crossing them over each other.

STEP 4

Cross one piece from one side to the other, and repeat the step by always adding a new strand of hair as you cross over to each side. Remember to think of it as making an ‘X’

STEP 5

Continue until you reach the end, leaving 2-3 inches of hair, and tie with a clear elastic

STEP 6

Gently tug at the braid to make it look fuller, and a little less perfect. And voila! You’re good to go. 

Photography: Heidi Lau | Tutorial: Cabello by Carolina