What Are The Different Types Of Tattoo Styles? Tattoos are a unique form of body art, with a vast array of styles that go far beyond just the image itself. At tattooat.com, we help you explore these diverse art forms, each with their own unique aesthetic and techniques, allowing you to discover the perfect match for your personality and artistic vision. Whether you’re drawn to classic techniques or modern designs, understanding the different tattoo art, tattoo design options, and tattoo culture is essential.
1. Traditional & Old School Tattoo Style
Traditional, often called Old School tattoos, are the quintessential American tattoos. Think of the kind your grandfather might have gotten in the Navy. The hallmarks of this classic tattoo art are bold black outlines and a vibrant color palette.
Traditional Tattoo Style Gypsy
Traditional Tattoo Style by Sara
These tattoos often feature iconic images like:
- Roses
- Anchors
- Eagles
- Pin-up girls
The bold lines and simple designs ensure these tattoos hold up well over time, making them a reliable choice for those seeking a lasting piece of body art.
2. Neo Traditional Tattoo Style
As the name suggests, Neo Traditional tattoos draw heavy inspiration from the Traditional style, but with a contemporary twist. This modern take combines the bold lines of the original with finer details, a broader color palette, and more illustrative qualities.
Neo Traditional Tattoo Style
Neo-Traditional Tattoo Style by Sara
Neo Traditional tattoos often incorporate:
- Intricate floral designs
- Detailed portraits
- Animals with elaborate ornamentation
The result is a tattoo that feels both classic and fresh, appealing to those who appreciate tradition but want a more refined aesthetic.
3. Fine Line Tattoo Style
Fine line tattoos offer a delicate and subtle look. This style has surged in popularity, especially among those getting their first tattoo, as the minimalist designs are easy to conceal and aesthetically pleasing.
Fine Line Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Fine Line Tattoo Style by Alex
Key characteristics of fine line tattoos include:
- Delicate, thin lines
- Minimal shading
- Emphasis on detail and precision
Popular motifs include:
- Geometric shapes
- Botanical elements
- Simple words or quotes
This style requires a skilled artist to ensure the lines are crisp and the design holds up well over time.
4. Pointillism Tattoo Style
The Pointillism tattoo style, also known as Dot Work, involves creating an image using a series of small dots. This technique is inspired by the 19th-century pointillism art movement and offers a unique, textured look.
Pointillism Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Pointillism Tattoo Style by Sage
Key features of Pointillism tattoos:
- Images formed from dots
- Varying dot density to create shading and depth
- Can be used for simple or complex designs
This style is versatile and can be adapted to various subjects, from simple shapes to detailed portraits.
5. Tribal Tattoo Style
Tribal tattoos have been around since the earliest days of tattooing, with each culture developing its own distinct style. Popular tribal styles include Polynesian, Native American, and more. These tattoos typically feature intricate patterns and can range from small designs to full-body coverage.
Tribal Style Tattoo
Tribal Tattoo Style by Eddie
Common characteristics of Tribal tattoos:
- Bold black lines
- Geometric patterns
- Symbolic meanings rooted in cultural traditions
These tattoos often represent heritage, identity, and spiritual beliefs.
6. Cybersigilism Tattoo Style
Cybersigilism is a tattoo style characterized by thin lines, sharp angles, and black ink, creating intricate patterns that blend circuitry and organic forms. While reminiscent of the tribal tattoos of the 90s, Cybersigilism offers a more modern, technological aesthetic.
Cybersigilism Tattoo Different Tattoo Styles
Cybersigilism Tattoo Style By Devon
Key elements of Cybersigilism tattoos:
- Thin, precise lines
- Sharp, angular shapes
- Black ink
- Abstract, futuristic designs
This style appeals to those interested in technology, science fiction, and avant-garde art.
7. Watercolor Tattoo Style
Watercolor tattoos have gained significant popularity in recent years, prized for their delicate and artistic appearance. This style mimics the look of watercolor paintings, with colors blending seamlessly on the skin and minimal or no outlines.
Water color Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Watercolor Tattoo Style by Alex
Characteristics of Watercolor tattoos:
- Soft, blended colors
- No harsh outlines
- Flowing, organic shapes
- Appearance of paint on skin
This style is ideal for those seeking a tattoo that resembles a beautiful, ethereal work of art.
8. Blackwork Tattoo Style
Blackwork tattoos are characterized by the exclusive use of black ink. These tattoos can range from simple, minimalist designs to complex, large-scale pieces. Blackwork is a striking choice for those who want a tattoo that makes a bold statement.
Blackwork Tattoo Style by Sarah
Key features of Blackwork tattoos:
- Exclusively black ink
- Bold, solid areas of black
- Can range from simple to complex designs
- High contrast and visual impact
Popular motifs include geometric patterns, tribal designs, and abstract art.
9. Realism Tattoo Style
Realism tattoos aim to replicate images as true to life as possible. These tattoos require a high level of skill and attention to detail, and can be done in color or black and grey. Realism tattoos are perfect for those who want their body art to look like a photograph or painting.
Realism Tattoo Style Realistic Tiger Tattoo
Realism Tattoo Style by Ryan
Characteristics of Realism tattoos:
- Highly detailed and lifelike
- Accurate representation of subjects
- Can be in color or black and grey
- Requires a skilled and experienced artist
Popular subjects include portraits, animals, and natural landscapes.
10. Japanese Tattoo Style
The classic Japanese tattoo style has been a favorite for centuries, and for good reason. These stylistic tattoos are ideal for telling stories in ink, with a distinct look and rich symbolism.
Japanese Tattoo Style by Eddie
Elements of Japanese tattoos:
- Elaborate, full-body designs
- Symbolic imagery, such as dragons, koi fish, and cherry blossoms
- Bold outlines and vibrant colors
- Storytelling through interconnected images
These tattoos often represent values, aspirations, and personal narratives.
11. Trash Polka Tattoo Style
Trash Polka is a unique tattoo style that combines blackwork, realism, and abstract elements. This style typically uses only black and red ink, but other colors may be incorporated depending on the design. Trash Polka has gained popularity for its ability to blend disparate elements into striking works of art.
Trash Polka Tattoo Style by Eddie
Key features of Trash Polka tattoos:
- Combination of blackwork, realism, and abstract elements
- Typically black and red ink
- Dynamic and chaotic composition
- Use of contrasting textures and patterns
This style appeals to those who want a tattoo that is both visually striking and conceptually complex.
12. Geometric Tattoo Style
The Geometric tattoo style focuses on lines and shapes, ranging from simple shapes to elaborate patterns. This contemporary style is more versatile than it appears, allowing for the creation of intricate and visually stunning designs.
Geometric Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Geometric Tattoo Style By CC
Common elements of Geometric tattoos:
- Lines and shapes
- Symmetrical patterns
- Mathematical precision
- Can be combined with other styles
Geometric tattoos often represent harmony, balance, and the interconnectedness of the universe.
13. Patchwork Tattoo Style
Patchwork tattoos are not a single tattoo, but rather a collection of individual tattoos placed on the body in a “patchwork” style. These tattoos can be done in almost any style, but are often done in a traditional style. Patchwork tattoos can be in color or blackwork.
Patchwork Style Tattoos Different Tattoo Styles
Tattoos done by various artists
Characteristics of Patchwork tattoos:
- Collection of individual tattoos
- Variety of styles and subjects
- Placement that resembles a patchwork quilt
- Personal and eclectic
This style allows for a unique and ever-evolving form of self-expression.
14. Patch Tattoo Style
Patch tattoo style (not to be confused with patchwork tattoos), is a tattoo style that makes the tattoo look like an embroidered patch on the skin. This style creates a visual illusion that the tattoo is a fabric patch attached to the skin.
Patch Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Patch Style Tattoo Style By Wulf
Features of Patch tattoos:
- Appearance of an embroidered patch
- Detailed stitching and fabric texture
- Often features cartoon characters, logos, or pop culture icons
- Playful and whimsical
This style is perfect for those who want a tattoo that is both creative and visually interesting.
15. Black and Grey Tattoo Style
The black and grey tattoo style is a classic and versatile option. This style focuses on shading and gradients to create depth and dimension, and can be applied to virtually any subject or design.
Black and Grey Tattoo Style by Ryan
Key features of Black and Grey tattoos:
- Use of black ink only
- Emphasis on shading and gradients
- Can be applied to any subject
- Timeless and elegant
This style is a great choice for those who want a tattoo that is both understated and visually striking.
16. Aesthetic Tattoo Style
The Aesthetic tattoo style is defined by its focus on beauty and visual appeal. These tattoos are designed to evoke a sense of pleasure and appreciation for art. Aesthetic tattoos can be large or small, black or color, as long as they are visually pleasing.
Aesthetic Tattoo Style by Tacho
Characteristics of Aesthetic tattoos:
- Focus on beauty and visual appeal
- Evokes a sense of pleasure and appreciation
- Can be large or small, black or color
- Often features nature, art, or abstract designs
This style is perfect for those who want a tattoo that is a work of art in itself.
17. Ignorant Tattoo Style
The Ignorant Tattoo Style is a relatively new style characterized by simple, crude designs that resemble the drawings of a child. These tattoos typically feature simple linework and a deliberately imperfect appearance.
Dinosaur Ignorant Style Tattoo Ignorant Style Tattoo Ideas
Ignorant Tattoo Style By Devon
Key elements of Ignorant tattoos:
- Simple, crude designs
- Resembles children’s drawings
- Simple linework
- Deliberately imperfect
This style is often chosen for its humor, irony, and rejection of traditional tattoo conventions.
18. Anime Tattoo Style
The Anime Tattoo Style is inspired by Japanese animation, comics, and films. These tattoos often feature characters, scenes, or iconic imagery from popular anime series.
Anime Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Anime Tattoo Style By Jah
Common features of Anime tattoos:
- Inspired by Japanese animation
- Characters, scenes, or iconic imagery
- Vibrant colors and bold outlines
- Often incorporates Japanese text or symbols
This style is a popular choice for fans of anime and manga.
19. Small Tattoo Style
Small tattoos are exactly what they sound like: tattoos that are small in size. They can be done in any style, color, or black and grey. Small tattoos are popular as first tattoos, or as a way to fill in gaps between larger pieces.
Small Tattoo Style by Sarah
Characteristics of Small tattoos:
- Small in size
- Can be done in any style or color
- Popular as first tattoos or fillers
- Minimalist and discreet
This style is a great option for those who want a subtle and understated tattoo.
20. Micro Tattoo Style
Micro Tattoos are the smallest of tattoo styles. These tattoos are incredibly tiny, and often require a highly skilled artist to execute properly due to the level of detail involved.
Micro Tattoo Style Different Tattoo Styles
Micro Tattoo Style by Sarah
Key elements of Micro tattoos:
- Extremely small size
- Intricate detail
- Requires a skilled artist
- Minimalist and delicate
This style is perfect for those who want a tiny, yet meaningful, piece of art.
21. Abstract Tattoo Style
Abstract tattoos, like abstract art, do not attempt to represent external reality. Instead, these tattoos use shapes, forms, and colors to create a visually interesting and unique design.
Abstract Tattoo Style by Sarah
Characteristics of Abstract tattoos:
- Does not represent external reality
- Uses shapes, forms, and colors
- Unique and visually interesting
- Open to interpretation
This style is ideal for those who want a tattoo that is both artistic and thought-provoking.
22. 3D Tattoo Style
3D tattoos are a visually striking style that creates the illusion of depth and dimension. These tattoos often use red and blue lines to create a 3D effect when viewed with 3D glasses.
3D Tattoo Style by Ryan
Key features of 3D tattoos:
- Creates the illusion of depth and dimension
- Often uses red and blue lines
- 3D effect when viewed with 3D glasses
- Visually striking and unique
This style is a great choice for those who want a tattoo that stands out and grabs attention.
23. Cartoon Tattoo Style
The cartoon tattoo style is inspired by classic Saturday morning cartoons. These tattoos are fun, colorful, and often feature beloved cartoon characters or reimaginings of everyday objects in a cartoon style.
Cartoon Tattoo Style by Sarah
Characteristics of Cartoon tattoos:
- Inspired by classic cartoons
- Fun and colorful
- Features cartoon characters or reimaginings
- Playful and nostalgic
This style is perfect for those who want a tattoo that is whimsical and lighthearted.
24. Continuous Line Contour Tattoo Style
In the Continuous Line Contour Tattoo Style, the artist tattoos the outermost edges of a form, as well as any dramatic changes within the form. The tattoo looks like an outline drawing, without shading, and the tattoo machine appears to never lift from the skin.
Continuous Line Contour Tattoo Style
Continuous Line Contour Tattoo Style by Sara
Key elements of Continuous Line Contour tattoos:
- Outermost edges of a form
- No shading
- Continuous line
- Minimalist and elegant
This style is a great choice for those who want a simple, yet striking, tattoo.
25. Portrait Tattoo Style
Portrait tattoos depict the likeness of a person or animal, either famous or someone the client loves. These tattoos are highly realistic and require a skilled artist to execute well. Portrait tattoos can be done in color or black and grey, and can range from simple to complex.
Portrait Tattoo Style Pinhead Different Tattoo Styles
Portrait Tattoo Style By Wulf
Characteristics of Portrait tattoos:
- Likeness of a person or animal
- Highly realistic
- Requires a skilled artist
- Can be in color or black and grey
This style is a meaningful way to honor someone special.
26. Pet and Animal Tattoo Style
Animal tattoos can be done in almost every style. Whether it is a dog portrait tattoo, a cat cartoon tattoo, a horse watercolor tattoo, or any other animal tattoo, they are all extremely meaningful tattoos. These Animal tattoo styles are always great as long as the tattoos portray the animal the way you remember them.
Pet and Animal Tattoo Style Bulldog Tattoo Different Tattoo Styles
Animal & Pet Tattoo Style By Wulf
Key elements of Pet and Animal tattoos:
- Depicts an animal
- Can be done in any style
- Meaningful and personal
- Celebrates the animal’s unique qualities
This style is a great way to honor a beloved pet or animal.
27. Sketch Tattoo Style
Another tattoo style the has been more popular is Sketch Style Tattoos. Sketch tattoo are usually black like a pencil. But, they can also be done in color (see image below) like a colored pencil. The Sketch Tattoo Style is a great tattoo style choice for almost any tattoo subject, and gives a not too clean, very authentic look to any type of tattoo.
Sketch Style Tattoo
Sketch Tattoo Style By Devon
Characteristics of Sketch tattoos:
- Resembles a sketch or drawing
- Often uses linework and shading
- Can be in black or color
- Authentic and imperfect
This style is a great choice for those who want a tattoo that looks like a work in progress.
28. Video Game Tattoo Style
Video games are an iconic part of modern life. They are not only fun to play, but fun to get tattooed. And, the video game style tattoos look amazing. Whether you go for a classic video game tattoo, or something newer, video game tattoos are a great choice.
Video Game Tattoo Style Yoshi Tattoo Different Tattoo Styles
Features of Video Game tattoos:
- Inspired by video games
- Characters, scenes, or iconic imagery
- Can be done in any style
- Celebrates a love for gaming
This style is a popular choice for gamers and fans of video game culture.
FAQ: Tattoo Styles
1. What is a tattoo style?
A tattoo style refers to the overall aesthetic and technique used in creating a tattoo, distinct from the subject matter of the tattoo. It’s like recognizing the difference between a Picasso and a Monet, regardless of what they’re painting.
2. How do I choose the right tattoo style for me?
Consider your personal aesthetic, the subject matter you want, and how you want the tattoo to look over time. Research different styles and artists to find a style that resonates with you and an artist who specializes in that style.
3. Can I combine different tattoo styles in one tattoo?
Yes, but it requires a skilled artist who understands how to blend different styles seamlessly. Combining styles can create a unique and personalized tattoo, but it’s important to ensure the styles complement each other.
4. What tattoo style is best for a first tattoo?
Fine line and small tattoos are popular choices for first tattoos due to their minimalist and discreet nature. However, the best style for you depends on your personal preferences and the subject matter you want.
5. Do different tattoo styles age differently?
Yes. Bold styles like Traditional and Blackwork tend to hold up well over time, while delicate styles like Watercolor and Fine Line may fade more quickly. Proper aftercare and sun protection are crucial for all tattoo styles.
6. How important is it to choose an artist who specializes in the style I want?
It’s very important. Artists who specialize in a particular style have the experience and expertise to create high-quality tattoos in that style. Research artists and view their portfolios to ensure they are a good fit for your vision.
7. What are the most popular tattoo styles in 2024?
According to Inked Magazine, the most popular tattoo styles in 2024 include Neo Traditional, Fine Line, Blackwork, and Realism. These styles offer a mix of classic and contemporary aesthetics, appealing to a wide range of people.
8. How has tattoo culture evolved over the years?
Tattoo culture has evolved from being associated with sailors and outlaws to becoming a mainstream form of self-expression. As Portland State University’s Art Department noted in July 2023, tattoos are now widely accepted and celebrated as a form of art and personal identity.
9. How can I find a tattoo artist who specializes in a specific style near me?
Websites like tattooat.com offer directories of tattoo artists and studios, allowing you to search by location and style. Social media platforms like Instagram are also great resources for finding artists and viewing their work.
10. What aftercare is recommended regardless of Tattoo Style?
Proper aftercare is essential for all tattoo styles. This includes keeping the tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun. Follow your artist’s specific aftercare instructions to ensure your tattoo heals properly and looks its best for years to come.
There are a countless number of tattoo styles to choose from, but these few tattoo styles are a great starting point for you tattoo journey. Whatever tattoo style you decide on make sure you get it from the best tattoo artists at the best tattoo shop. At tattooat.com, we offer inspiration and connection to talent, and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to find the perfect style and artist for your next tattoo? Explore tattooat.com today to discover a wealth of designs, artists, and inspiration. Let us help you bring your vision to life.
