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The Ultimate 7-Step Guide: How To Master The Elusive Kipper Plait (Fishtail Braid)

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The Kipper Plait, or as it is more commonly known, the Fishtail Braid, is one of the most stunning and intricate-looking hairstyles you can master. Despite its complex appearance, the technique is surprisingly simple, relying on just two main sections of hair rather than the three used in a traditional French or English braid. As of December 19, 2025, this classic style remains a top trend, offering an elegant, bohemian, or even edgy look depending on how it's finished.

This comprehensive guide will break down the "Kipper Plait" into seven easy-to-follow steps, revealing the secrets to creating a tight, detailed weave or a loose, romantic, tousled texture. We'll also dive into the essential tools and advanced variations to elevate your braiding game and achieve true topical authority in your hairstyle repertoire.

The Essential Toolkit and Historical Context of the Plait

Before you begin braiding, having the right preparation and tools is crucial for a flawless Kipper Plait. While the term "Kipper Plait" is a charming, often regional or older name, it refers directly to the modern Fishtail Braid, a style whose origins, like many plaits, can be traced back thousands of years to ancient cultures including the Greek, Celtic, and Sung dynasties.

The Fishtail Braid itself is an adaptation of the popular three-strand French Plait, simplified to a two-strand technique that creates the unique, overlapping pattern resembling fish scales.

Your Kipper Plait Toolkit Checklist

  • Rattail Comb: Essential for straight, clean parts and separating small, precise strands.
  • Snag-Free Hair Elastics: Clear or hair-colored elastics are a must for securing the braid without causing damage.
  • Texturizing Spray or Mousse: Applying a volume-enhancing product before braiding gives the hair grip and helps the plait hold its shape, especially for fine hair.
  • Light-Hold Hairspray: Used to tame flyaways and set the final look.
  • Mirror: A hand mirror or a second mirror is necessary to check your work on the back of your head.

Preparation is key. Ensure your hair is brushed completely to remove all tangles. A slightly dirty or second-day hair often holds a braid better than freshly washed, silky hair, so a dry shampoo can be beneficial for adding texture and grip.

7 Steps to Master the Basic Kipper Plait (Fishtail Braid)

The basic Kipper Plait is typically started at the nape of the neck, or over the shoulder for a side braid. This step-by-step guide is for a simple, low ponytail style plait, which is the easiest to learn.

  1. Secure a Ponytail: Start by gathering all your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck or over one shoulder. Secure it temporarily with an elastic. This step is optional but makes the learning process significantly easier.
  2. Divide into Two Sections: Split the ponytail into two equally sized main sections: a left section and a right section. Unlike a traditional braid, you will only be working with these two large sections.
  3. The First Cross-Over (Left to Right): Using your fingers, take a small, thin strand of hair from the outer edge of the left section. The key to the 'fishtail' pattern is the size of the strand: the smaller the strand, the more intricate and detailed the final braid will be.
  4. Bring it to the Middle: Cross this small strand over the top of the left section and merge it into the inner side of the right section.
  5. The Second Cross-Over (Right to Left): Now, repeat the process on the opposite side. Take a small, thin strand of hair from the outer edge of the right section.
  6. Merge and Repeat: Cross this small strand over the top of the right section and merge it into the inner side of the left section. This completes one full cycle of the Kipper Plait.
  7. Finish the Braid: Continue this alternating process—taking a small outer strand from one side and crossing it over to the inner side of the other—until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the finished plait with a snag-free elastic and gently remove the temporary elastic from Step 1, if you used one.

Advanced Kipper Plait Variations and Pro Tips

Once you’ve mastered the basic Kipper Plait, you can explore more advanced variations to elevate your style. Integrating the plait into your overall hairstyle adds significant topical authority and depth to your look.

The French Kipper Plait (French Fishtail)

The French Kipper Plait is a sophisticated cross between a French braid and a fishtail. Instead of starting at the nape, this braid begins at the crown of the head, incorporating new sections of hair as you go.

  • Starting Point: Separate a section of hair from the crown of your head and divide it into two.
  • Incorporating Hair: As you perform the cross-over (Step 4 and 6), you must simultaneously gather a new, small section of loose hair from the side of your head and merge it with the crossing strand before bringing it over to the opposite section.
  • Result: This technique creates a braid that lies flat against the scalp, perfect for a half-up, half-down style or a full braided look.

The Messy, Tousled Kipper Plait

The messy, loose Kipper Plait is a popular bohemian look that adds volume and texture, often seen on runways and at festivals. This is achieved through a technique called "pancaking."

  • The Technique: Once your braid is fully secured, gently pull on the outer edges of the woven sections. Start from the bottom and work your way up.
  • The Goal: Pulling the strands apart—or "pancaking"—makes the braid wider, softer, and gives it a fuller, more relaxed appearance. Be careful not to pull too hard, which could unravel the entire plait.
  • Pro Tip: Use a dry wax or texturizing spray after securing the braid and before pancaking to enhance the messy texture and hold.

Troubleshooting Common Kipper Plait Challenges

The Kipper Plait can be challenging at first, but most issues are easily solved with the right technique adjustments.

Why is my braid falling apart?

This is usually due to using strands that are too large. The essence of the fishtail/kipper plait is the constant interweaving of very small sections. If you use thick strands, the weave will be loose and will not hold its shape. Always aim for strands no thicker than your pinky finger. Also, ensure you are pulling the strands tight as you cross them over.

How do I keep the braid tight while working on the back?

For a full Kipper Plait, it's easiest to start by pulling all your hair to one side and braiding it over your shoulder. If you are doing a French Kipper Plait, secure the two main starting sections with a clip or an elastic while you gather the outer strands to keep the tension even. Alternatively, a hair braiding tool can help beginners maintain control.

What if my hair is layered?

Layered hair can cause small pieces to poke out, especially near the top. Combat this by using a smoothing serum or a light-hold gel on the hair before you begin. For the final look, gently mist with hairspray and use a fine-toothed rattail comb to smooth down any stubborn flyaways. The messy, tousled technique is also a great way to hide layers, as the intentional looseness blends the shorter pieces seamlessly.

The Ultimate 7-Step Guide: How to Master the Elusive Kipper Plait (Fishtail Braid)
how to do a kipper plait
how to do a kipper plait

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