Diy Braids From Crowns to Fishtails

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Thanks in part to Pinterest and Instagram, braided updos have become the ultimate bohemian accessory. If you've only mastered the traditional three-strand braid, however, you may be intimidated by the intricacy of these styles. Luckily, the fishtail crown braid is a style that looks much more complicated than it actually is. Even if you're a braiding novice, you can handle this style! Transform easy pigtail braids into a beautiful fishtail crown with just a few simple steps.

1

Spray your hair with dry shampoo or texturizing spray. Before you begin creating this hairstyle, it's helpful to add texture and grit with a spray. This is particularly important if have fine, silky hair that slips through finger easily. By adding a bit of texture to your hair, you'll make the braiding process easier and ensure your braid stays in place all day. Grab your spray of choice and spritz it through your hair, running your fingers through your hair to help distribute the product.
2

Divide your hair into two sections. The easiest way to do this hairstyle is by creating two braided pigtails. First, part your hair straight down the middle. Then, gather your hair into two sections, one on either side of your head. Clip one pigtail out of the way as you start with the other.^[1]

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3

Split one section into two strands. Before you begin braiding your hair, make sure you pull out any bangs or strands of hair in the front that you want to frame your face. Then, split the section of hair into two even pieces. Unlike a traditional three-strand braid, a fishtail braid is created with two strands.^[2]

1

Grab a thin section of hair from the outer edge of one strand. Cross it over and join it with the opposite section of hair. Do the same thing on the opposite side: grab a small section of hair from the outer edge of the other strand, cross it over, and join it with the opposite section. Between each of these movements, you will only have those two original sections of hair. Make sure you hold these tightly so that the braid remains taut.^[3] Creating a perfect fishtail braid takes a bit longer than a traditional braid, but is not complicated. You should be good to go after a bit of practice!
2

Braid the length of your hair. Continue crossing strands of hair and joining them with the opposite section. Before long, you will see the intricate-looking pattern forming. Hold the two sections tight and continue doing this until you have no hair left to braid.^[4]
3

Pull apart your braid and secure it. When you reach the end of your hair, hold the end in one hand firmly. With your other hand, gently pull apart the braid. In other words, pull on the edges of your braid to add volume and width to your braid. You want your finished fishtail braid to look big and loose, rather than tight and perfect. When you are satisfied with how it looks, secure the end with a clear elastic hair tie.^[5]
4

Do the exact same thing to the other half of your hair. Unclip the second section of hair on the other side of your head. Split this section into two pieces and begin fishtail braiding it. When you reach the end of your hair, loosen your braid with your fingers and secure it with a hair tie. You should now have two loose fishtail braid pigtails.^[6]

1

Wrap one of your pigtails over your head. Once you are finished creating your two pigtails, it is time to create the crown. Lift up one of your pigtails – it doesn't matter which – and stretch it over your head like a headband. Use bobby pins to secure the end of the pigtail in place on the other side of your head.^[7]
2

Pin the second pigtail underneath your head. Once the first pigtail is pinned in place over the top of your head, it's time to complete the full crown. Take your second pigtail and wrap it underneath your head. In other words, the two pigtails will end up forming a full circle around your head – the "crown!" Like the first braid, pin this second braid in place with bobby pins.^[8]
3

Secure everything with hairspray. Once you have pinned your pigtails into place, use a handheld mirror to examine the back of your hairstyle. Make sure you like how everything looks, and re-pin your braids if necessary! Then, spritz your entire style with hairspray. This will help hold your braids in place as well as to reduce the chance of frizz and flyaways.^[9]

Add New Question

Question

Why do my braids always come unraveled?

Janet Miranda
Professional Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist

Janet Miranda is a Professional Hair Stylist, Makeup Artist, and the Founder of Be.NYLA. With over 15 years of experience, Janet specializes in makeup and hair for advertising, commercial, editorial, runway, special events, television, and videos. She was trained at Vidal Sassoon Academy and with top hair and makeup artists including MAC Cosmetics and Redken. Janet has worked five seasons of New York Fashion Week and one season on Project Runway. She continues to add brands to her growing client list including Armani Exchange, Neutrogena, and Pantene. Janet's work has been featured on CBS, Brides Magazine, 100 Layer Cake, Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes, Ireland Image Brides Magazine, and Elle Japan.

Professional Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist

Expert Answer

Preparation is key with fishtail braids. I think using some light pomade or hairspray will really make it easier to secure your braids tightly. Elastic bands also make a big difference; you really need to make sure your bands are tight if you're using them.
Question

How many bobby pins do I really need?

You might need a minimum of about 10 bobby pins. Of course, you might need more if you have thicker and longer hair.
Question

What are some other types of braids I can do?

There are lots of braids, like the fishtail braid, the halo braid, and even the French fringe braid. wikiHow has tons of articles that can help you learn different types of braids, like How to Braid Hair, How to French Braid, and How to Make a Dutch Braid.
Question

I'm trying to do this on my 9 year old daughter, but I can't seem to get it right. What are some tips?

Try making two low pigtails, and then braid. This helps me very much. Also, use small, clear elastics.