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Make a side fishtail braid

Bring the working hair over a shoulder for a visible, reachable braid with a fine woven pattern. Choose this when the lengths reach your hands without pulling at the roots.

Step by step

  1. A man separates his loose hair over one shoulder into two bundles before making a fishtail braid.
    STEP 1 OF 3

    Divide the lengths in two

    • Detangle using your usual gentle method. Place a soft tie nearby and bring the lengths over one shoulder without pulling at the hairline.
    • Separate the working hair into two similar-sized bundles. Hold one in each hand at chest height; leave short face-framing hairs outside.
  2. A man transfers a thin outer strip between the two main sections of his own fishtail braid.
    STEP 2 OF 3

    Transfer small outer strips

    • From the outer edge of one bundle, separate a thin strip with your thumb and index finger. Carry it over that bundle to join the inside of the other.
    • Repeat from the opposite outer edge. Keep just two main bundles, adding each transferred strip to its new bundle before changing hands.
    • Alternate down the lengths. Pause to separate snags with your fingers; keep the roots comfortable instead of pulling the bundles apart.
  3. A man supports his completed fishtail braid while securing its end with a soft tie.
    STEP 3 OF 3

    Tie the end and take it down

    • Stop while enough loose ends remain to hold easily. Support the weave in one hand and fasten a soft tie around the tail with the other.
    • Check that the braid stays comfortable as you turn your head. Loosen or remove it if it pulls.
    • For takedown, remove the tie and gently separate the woven strips from the bottom upward. Put away the tie and loose tools.

One braid, including setup, securing and later takedown. Preparatory detangling is separate; practice may take longer.

Unmeasured editorial handling estimate for one familiar solo braid. Length, density and dexterity change the time.

You’re done when…

A fine herringbone weave holds above the tie, with comfortable roots and no trapped snags.