Back To School Hairstyles, Split Fishtail Braid Ponytails

This week we decided to do a couple of cute ponytail tutorials for the start of our back to school hairstyles series.  The end results of these styles look quite different from each other, but both were created by using the same lace fishtail braiding technique (which we are calling the "split fishtail braid." )

 

Watch Our Split Fishtail Braid Ponytails Video Tutorial - 2 hairstyles, 1 braid. Click here to watch the video directly on YouTube. 

For the first hairstyle, the braids are hanging freely, coming together at the bottom of the ponytail forming a fishtail V-shape. This is more of a casual and relaxed ponytail (which would be great for school as well as sports.) 

For the 2nd hairstyle idea (shown in the pictures below) you will lift and pin the braids up over the top of the ponytail, similar to a "rib cage braid." This is a technique usually utilized with a single French braid. A few examples of this technique on YouTube using a single braid: Julie Morton, Cute Girls Hairstyles, Dluxhairnmakeup.

This look is more glamorous and would be great for a special or formal occasion.  I wouldn't necessarily recommend this variation for sports, as it is a little more delicate than the first ponytail.  If you are looking for more of an updo rather than a ponytail.... after pinning the top of the braids, you could tuck the ends of the ponytail underneath, for an elegant and unique upstyle.

Supplies needed to recreate these looks:

• 2 medium size elastics or hair ties, 1 for the top of the ponytail, and 1 for the bottom of the braid.
• 1 hair clip or temporary elastic to keep the first braid from unraveling while you work on the other side.
• Pomade, gel, or damp hair to help with flyaways.
• Several bobby pins (if you are creating the 2nd ponytail style.)
• A bow, ribbon, flower, or other accessory. (Optional.)