How To: Fishtail Braid

Like all the best hairstyles, the fishtail braid (also known as the 'herringbone braid') is one that looks intricate and tricky to do, but with a bit of practice becomes nearly as easy to create as a regular three-strand braid. And like so many of today's popular styles, it actually looks better when it's slightly messed up rather than being perfectly neat and tidy - so no big deal if you happen to drop a strand here or there.

Steps:
1. Divide your detangled, second-day hair into two equal sections.

2. Hold the righthand section in your right hand. With your left hand, take a thin strand of hair from the outside of the lefthand section, cross it over, and add it to the inside of the righthand section.

3. Do the same thing on the other side: that is, hold the lefthand section in your left hand, use your right hand to take a thin strand of hair from the outside of the righthand section, cross it over, and add it to the inside of the lefthand section. You'll need to use gravity to your advantage as you keep changing hands, and if the strands keep slipping then your hair probably isn't 'dirty' enough (running some mousse or styling wax through your hair will fix this problem in a jiffy).

4. Repeat the process until you've reached the ends of your hair, tie the braid with a hair elastic, and voila—you're done!

If you want a single fishtail braid at the back, (as shown above), get a friend to do it for you.

One of the most effective ways to wear a fishtail braid is on the side, as an extra-special version of the classic side braid. It not only looks awesome but means that you can do it yourself in front of the mirror without needing to have anyone else there to help out. The looser you hold the strands, the 'fatter' your fishtail braid will be, giving a more relaxed finish to the overall look.

A fishtail braid can also be included as a single addition to loose hair.

Enjoy! ~TEK Salon & Spa