Comparison of pull-through and fishtail braids

Braided hairstyles

comparison: pull through braid vs. fishtail braid

By Willow Brooke

Published: 29 Apr 2025

Hey there, braid lovers! So, the other day I was getting ready for a friend's wedding – you know, the kind where you really want to look your best? I was agonizing over which hairstyle to rock. My go-to is usually a messy bun, but I felt like something a little fancier was in order. That's when the age-old question popped into my head: pull-through braid or fishtail braid? Both are gorgeous, but which one reigns supreme? Let's find out!
woman deciding between two hairstyles

woman deciding between two hairstyles | Image: Supplied

Pull-Through Braid: The Quick & Easy Charm

This braid is my absolute lifesaver on busy mornings. It looks intricate, but it's surprisingly simple. You basically create sections of hair and pull them through each other. The result? A cascade of beautiful loops. It's super forgiving, too – even if a few strands escape, it still looks amazing. Perfect for those days when you just want something pretty without a huge time commitment.

  • Pros: Fast, easy to learn, looks complex even for beginners, works on most hair lengths.
  • Cons: Can look a little bit too 'perfect' sometimes, might not be as durable as fishtail braids for very active days.
woman with a pull-through braid

woman with a pull-through braid | Image: Supplied

Fishtail Braid: The Romantic, Intricate Look

The fishtail braid is where things get a little more challenging, but oh-so-worth it! It's characterized by that stunning, delicate, almost scale-like pattern. It's a bit more time-consuming, but the end result is an undeniably romantic and sophisticated look. I often use this one for special occasions or nights out. It's definitely a head-turner!

  • Pros: Elegant and intricate, looks very polished, holds up well even if you're dancing all night long, adds a touch of whimsy.
  • Cons: Takes more practice to master, can be tricky on thick or short hair, might be a bit too much for everyday wear.
woman with a fishtail braid

woman with a fishtail braid | Image: Supplied

The Ultimate Showdown: Pull-Through vs. Fishtail

Choosing between these two braids really depends on your hair type, skill level, and the occasion. If you're short on time and want something effortlessly chic, the pull-through braid is your best friend. But if you want to make a statement, and have the time to dedicate to it, the fishtail braid is the way to go. I personally use both! Its all about knowing when to use which one. Honestly, I think both hairstyles are gorgeous, and that makes choosing one difficult. Its always a battle between beauty and time constraints.

Honestly, I often choose based on my mood—some days I feel like a quick and easy style, other days I'm in the mood for something more elaborate. So go ahead and experiment! You might surprise yourself with which one you prefer more. What do you think? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Beauty is braided into the very fabric of life, found not only in elaborate styles but also in the simplicity of each strand.

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