How to Do a Herringbone Braid

The herringbone braid is a type of hairstyle. It also goes by the name of fishtail braid. Though it does require some practice to get the movements down, this is an easy braid.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hair band

1. Pull the hair back into a ponytail or gather the hair you want to start the braid with. The ponytail gives it a tighter appearance, while the loose method allows you to choose how tight you want the herringbone braid to be.

2. Separate a section of hair where the braid will start either near the middle top of the head or at the top of the ponytail. Divide it into two equal parts. Hold both in your left hand using your fingers to keep them separated. This leaves the left hand free for making the braid.

3. Gather a small amount of hair from the right side. If using the ponytail method of herringbone braid, gather the hair from the bottom of the right section. Cross it over the right section and add it to the left section. Transfer all of the hair, still separated by your fingers, to your right hand to leave your left hand free to do the left side.

4. Grab a small amount of hair from the left side this time. Cross it over the left section and add it to the right section.

5. Transfer the separated hair back to the right hand and repeat Steps 3 and 4 until there's no more hair to add for the loose method or just a couple of inches are left of the ponytail. You are left with two sections.

6. Hold one section in each hand if you're using the loose method. Use your fingers to separate a small amount from the left side and add it to the section in your right hand. Repeat this using a small amount from the right side and adding it to the section in your left hand. Continue back and forth until you have a couple of inches left to complete the herringbone braid.

7. Use a hair band to secure the remaining hair. Leave enough room at the end that the tie can't work itself off the hair.

Tips & Warnings

• The herringbone braid works best with hair that's dry and at least medium length.

• Make all sections equal and pull them tightly to give the braid an even appearance.