Tattoos are no longer just for rebellious teenagers or rock stars; they have become a powerful means of self-expression for moms like you and me. The topic can be a mix of excitement and nerves, especially when you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo or adding to your collection.
Choosing Your Tattoo Style
Picking a style for your tattoo is like choosing the perfect outfit for a special occasion. It’s all about what makes sense to you. Each of these tattoo types shows how different and creative the world of tattoos is. You can find a style that fits your taste and story, whether you like traditional tattoos that stand out or simple designs that are more understated.
Tattoo Style Types
- Traditional or Old School Rooted in the classic Americana style, these tattoos are known for their bold lines, bright colors, and iconic designs like roses, skulls, and nautical symbols. They carry a sense of nostalgia and timelessness, appealing to those who love a retro vibe.
- Realism As the name suggests, realism tattoos are all about lifelike images, whether it’s a portrait of a loved one, a beloved pet, or a scenic landscape. These tattoos require a high level of skill and attention to detail, making them a true art piece on the skin.
- Watercolor Watercolor tattoos break the norm with their lack of bold outlines, instead using a freeform splash of colors that mimic the brushstrokes of a watercolor painting. They are perfect for those looking for something unique and artistic, often featuring floral designs, animals, or abstract forms.
- Tribal One of the oldest tattoo styles, tribal tattoos have their roots in indigenous and ancient cultures. Characterized by black lines and geometric patterns, they often hold significant cultural and spiritual meanings.
- Japanese or Irezumi This style of tattoo is rich in history and symbolism, often featuring large-scale designs like koi fish, dragons, and cherry blossoms. These tattoos are known for their vibrant colors and detailed imagery, often telling a story or representing a life philosophy.
- Minimalist Minimalist tattoos cater to the ‘less is more’ philosophy. They are often small, simple designs that use clean lines and minimal color. These tattoos are also great for first-timers or those who prefer subtle, understated art.
- New School A playful and modern take on the traditional style, New School tattoos are characterized by cartoonish, exaggerated forms and bright, vivid colors. They often incorporate elements of pop culture, making them a favorite among younger enthusiasts.
- Dotwork and Geometric Focusing on patterns and shapes, these styles of tattoos use dots and lines to create intricate designs. Geometric tattoos can range from simple shapes to complex mandalas, while dotwork is often used in shading and creating texture.
20 Tattoo Style Ideas to Inspire You
Sunflower Tattoo
- A vibrant and realistic sunflower with intricate petals and a bright yellow center.
- A sunflower with a quote or word integrated into the stem or leaves.
- A small and minimalist sunflower on the wrist or ankle.
Nautical Style Tattoo
- A classic anchor with detailed chains and ropes.
- An anchor combined with a compass rose for a nautical theme.
- A tiny anchor tattoo on the finger or behind the ear.
Heart Tattoos
- A heart-shaped locket with a personal photo or message inside.
- A heart made of minimalist geometric shapes like triangles or squares.
- A heart with a lifeline or heartbeat rhythm for a medical or sentimental touch.
Feather Tattoo Style
- A detailed and realistic feather with intricate patterns.
- A feather turning into a flock of birds, symbolizing freedom.
- A small, delicate feather on the collarbone or forearm.
Mountain Theme Tattoos
- A landscape tattoo featuring towering mountains and a serene lake.
- A minimalist mountain range silhouette on the forearm or ankle.
- A geometric mountain design with clean lines and shapes.
Arrow Tattoos
- A Native American-inspired arrow with feathers and beads.
- An arrow piercing through a heart, symbolizing love and determination.
- A small, minimalist arrow on the ribcage or wrist.
Moon-Styled Tattoos
- A crescent moon with intricate details and a face.
- A full moon surrounded by stars, creating a celestial scene.
- A tiny moon tattoo on the finger or back of the neck.
Rose Style Tattoo
- A realistic red rose with delicate petals and thorns.
- A black and gray rose with a splash of red to highlight a specific petal.
- A small and minimalist rosebud on the ankle or shoulder.
Butterfly Tattoos
- A colorful and realistic butterfly with intricate wing patterns.
- A butterfly with a gradient of colors, creating a vibrant effect.
- A tiny butterfly on the wrist or ankle, symbolizing transformation.
Tree Designs
- A detailed and majestic oak tree with sprawling branches.
- A family tree with initials or names on the leaves.
- A minimalist tree silhouette on the calf or forearm.
Key Style
- An ornate vintage key with intricate details and patterns.
- A key with a tiny heart-shaped handle, symbolizing love and access to one’s heart.
- A small and minimalist key on the ribcage or behind the ear.
Compass Tattoos
- A classic compass with detailed directions and a working needle.
- A compass rose with additional elements like a ship wheel or anchor.
- A tiny compass-style tattoo on the forearm or collarbone.
Anchor Tattoo Styles
- An anchor entwined with realistic roses, blending nautical and floral themes.
- An anchor with roses in black and gray, adding depth and contrast.
- A small anchor with a single rose on the ankle or wrist.
Infinity Sign Tattoos
- An infinity symbol with a heart in the center, representing eternal love.
- An infinity loop with the word “family” incorporated into the design.
- A tiny infinity symbol on the ring finger or nape of the neck.
Birds Tattoos
- A flock of birds in flight, creating a sense of freedom and movement.
- A single bird with a meaningful word or phrase incorporated into its shape.
- A small bird tattoo on the collarbone or forearm.
Dreamcatcher Tattoos
- A dreamcatcher with intricate webbing and hanging feathers.
- A dreamcatcher with a detailed wolf or bear in the center.
- A small dreamcatcher on the thigh or upper arm.
Lotus Flower Tattoos
- A lotus flower in full bloom with vibrant colors and detailed petals.
- A lotus flower with an Om symbol at its center, signifying spiritual growth.
- A tiny lotus flower on the ankle or behind the ear.
Dragonfly Tattoos
- A realistic dragonfly with intricate wings and shimmering colors.
- A dragonfly in flight with a trail of delicate dots to represent movement.
- A small dragonfly tattoo on the wrist or ankle.
Elephant Styled Tattoos
- An elephant with ornate patterns and jewelry, symbolizing strength and wisdom.
- An elephant family with baby elephants, representing family bonds.
- A small elephant tattoo on the calf or forearm.
Watch Tattoos
- A vintage pocket watch with intricate details and Roman numerals.
- A wristwatch with the time set to a significant moment, like a birth or wedding.
- A small wristwatch tattoo on the wrist or inner forearm.
Finding the Right Tattoo Artist to Fit Your Style
Just like you wouldn’t trust just anyone to babysit your kids, finding the right tattoo artist is important. Look for someone whose work you admire and who has a track record of clean, safe practices. Social media is also a great place to start; you can see their portfolio and read reviews from other clients. Don’t be shy to reach out and ask questions!
Preparation and Aftercare
Getting a tattoo is a bit like preparing for a minor medical procedure. You want to be well-rested, hydrated, and have eaten a good meal beforehand. When it comes to aftercare, think of it as taking care of a small scrape or burn. Keep it clean, moisturized, and avoid direct sunlight. Your artist will give you detailed care instructions – make sure to follow them!
Considering the Pain Factor
Let’s be real, getting a tattoo can hurt. But it’s a bearable kind of pain. Most people compare it to a constant scratching or a mild burning sensation. The level of discomfort varies depending on where on your body you’re getting inked. Areas with more flesh tend to hurt less than bony areas.
Tattoos and Motherhood
As moms, we often worry about what message we’re sending our kids. Having a tattoo doesn’t make you less of a mom or a professional. It’s a form of self-expression and art. It can be a great conversation starter about individuality and creativity with your kids as they grow up.
My daughter and I recently got matching tattoos after her 18th birthday. We each decided to have them on a different part of our body, but still the same tattoo. It was a mother-daughter bonding experience for sure! I’m on the left in this photo (chose my neck for placement) and my daughter is on the right (chose her arm for placement). This was taken right after we had them while still at the tattoo studio.
Our tattoo artist recommended that we use a product called, Tattoo Goo, to help protect our tattoos while they were healing. They both healed amazingly well, so if you are thinking about a tattoo for yourself, grab a container of Tattoo Goo before you get inked!
Final Thoughts on Tattoo Ideas and Styles
A tattoo can be a powerful way to tell your story, honor loved ones, or mark significant life events. Each tattoo is as unique as the person wearing it. It’s a journey of self-expression that you wear proudly on your skin.
So, whether you’re contemplating your first tiny tattoo or planning your next big piece, remember it’s all about what makes you feel good. Find your style, do your research, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Tattoos are not just ink on skin; they’re a reflection of who you are and the stories you carry.
