Herringbone braids, also known as fishtail braids, are stylized braids that use two strands of hair, rather than the three of a French or English braid. While a herringbone braid looks challenging to master, they are quite simple in structure. Herringbone braids are created by pulling a strand of hair from either side of the hair section you wish to braid, then crossing the strands. Put the first two strands back into the body of hair and pull two new strands out and cross them in the same manner. Repeat this process until the length of hair you wish to be braided is complete. While the herringbone braid is a classic hairstyle, there are many modern twists that can be styled with the look.
Single Herringbone Braid
To create a clean, smooth herringbone braid, consider a single herringbone that looks similar to that of a French braid. The single herringbone braid should begin at the crown of the head. Using the hair from both sides of the scalp, the braid should be worked down the center of the head – vertically – to the base of the skull. Pull hair away from the scalp as you braid, forming a braided ponytail until you have reached the tips of the hair. Secure the ends of the hair with an elastic band to complete the style.
Double Herringbone Braid
The double herringbone braid is created in the same manner as the single herringbone, except that two braids are made into either side of the hair and joined together at the base of the skull. To create a double herringbone braid, part the hair down the center, starting at the crown of the head and working down to the neck. Create a herringbone braid on each side of the head, similar to pigtails. As you get closer to the base of the skull, bring the braids back towards the center to merge them into a single ponytail. Secure the tips of the hair with an elastic band.
Right-Side Herringbone Braid
Herringbone braids created on the right or left side of the head are trendy and still look great even if they are messy. To create a right-side herringbone braid, create a part on the left side of the scalp. Gather all of the hair into a low ponytail and pull the ponytail towards the right side of the neck. Separate the ponytail into two sections, and then two smaller strands from the outside right and left ponytail. Cross the two sections in the middle. Repeat this process until you have reached the tips of your hair. Secure the ends of the hair with an elastic band.
Sources:
Seventeen: Try a Fishtail Braid
Italian Group: Braid Trends
Daily Glow: Hair Braids Fun and Flirty
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