Exploring the 10 most popular types of tattoo styles: Which one suits you?

August 21, 2024 - 1 year ago

Deciding on a tattoo style can feel a bit like choosing a new haircut, but way more permanent—exciting yet kinda nerve-wracking, right? With so many cool styles out there—from the classic boldness of traditional tattoos to the dreamy splashes of watercolour—it's easy to feel a tad lost.

You might find yourself wondering, "Will this style match my vibe? Or what if I change my mind about it later?" It's all about finding that perfect match that looks awesome and feels like a part of you.

Let's dive into the ten most popular tattoo styles and determine which speaks to your style and story.

And hey, if you're a tattoo artist inspired by these styles, don't forget to check out our shop and stock up on all your tattoo supplies. Add to the cart now and keep creating art that impresses!

1. Traditional tattoos

Traditional tattoos, or "old school" tattoos, are characterised by their bold lines, limited colour palette, and iconic imagery. These designs often feature solid black outlines with a limited use of primary colours, such as red, green, yellow, and blue.

Historical background and cultural significance

Traditional tattoos have a rich history rooted in Western tattoo culture, particularly among sailors, soldiers, and rebels. They became popular in the early 20th century, with icons like Sailor Jerry Norman Collins helping to popularise the style.

Typical motifs

Common motifs include anchors, swallows, roses, hearts, daggers, and pin-up girls. Each motif often carries its own symbolic meaning, such as swallows representing a safe return from a journey.

Who this style suits

Traditional tattoos are ideal for those who appreciate classic, timeless designs with a connection to the history and culture of tattooing

2. Neo-traditional tattoo style

Neo-traditional tattoo styles are an evolution of the traditional tattoo style, incorporating a broader colour palette, more intricate details, and a more comprehensive range of themes. While they maintain the bold lines of traditional tattoos, they often include more shading, depth, and complexity in their designs.

Evolution from traditional tattoos

Neo-traditional tattoos emerged as artists sought to expand the limitations of traditional tattooing, allowing for more creativity and artistic expression. This style blends the classic elements of traditional tattoos with modern techniques and aesthetics.

Common themes and colour palettes

Common themes include portraits of animals, people, and mythical creatures, often with a dramatic or illustrative twist. The colour palettes are more diverse, with richer tones and more subtle gradients.

Who this style suits

Neo-traditional tattoos are perfect for individuals who appreciate the boldness of traditional tattoos but desire more detail, colour, and artistic flair in their designs.

3. Realism tattoo style

Realism tattoos are designed to closely replicate real-life images, such as portraits, animals, or nature scenes, with lifelike precision. These tattoos require a high level of skill to capture fine details and shadows that make the image appear three-dimensional.

Techniques used to achieve lifelike images

Artists use techniques such as shading, layering, and careful attention to light and shadow. Both grayscale and colour realism are common.

Popular subjects

Popular subjects include portraits of loved ones, celebrities, animals, and nature scenes that capture a moment or memory with striking accuracy.

Who this style suits

Realism tattoos suit individuals who value precision and want a tattoo that captures a realistic image with emotional depth.

4. Watercolour tattoos

Watercolour tattoos mimic the appearance of watercolour paintings, characterised by soft, flowing lines and vibrant splashes of colour. These tattoos often lack bold outlines, creating a more fluid, abstract appearance.

Inspiration from watercolour painting techniques

The style is inspired by watercolour art, where colours blend seamlessly to create a dreamlike effect. Artists use shading and blending techniques to replicate this look on the skin.

Common themes and colour splashes

Common themes include floral designs, abstract patterns, animals, and nature scenes. The overlapping colours give these tattoos a dynamic, artistic feel.

Who this style suits

Perfect for those who love vibrant colours, abstract designs, and a fine-art-inspired aesthetic.

5. Blackwork tattoo style

Blackwork tattoos are designed using only black ink, often in bold, striking patterns that can range from minimalist to intricate full-body designs.

Use of bold black ink to create dramatic designs

The style relies on large, solid black areas or complex linework to achieve strong visual contrast.

Popular patterns

Geometric designs, mandalas, tribal motifs, and abstract forms are common, often using negative space creatively.

Who this style suits

Ideal for those who appreciate bold, minimalist, or monochromatic aesthetics.

6. Japanese tattoos

Japanese tattoo styles, or Irezumi, are known for their large, detailed designs that often cover significant portions of the body. They feature bold outlines, vibrant colours, and rich symbolism.

Deep-rooted cultural history and symbolism

Japanese tattoos have a rich cultural history representing spirituality, protection, and strength. Many designs draw from folklore and mythology.

Typical imagery

Common imagery includes koi fish, dragons, samurai, cherry blossoms, and tigers—each with symbolic meaning, such as perseverance, strength, and wisdom.

Who this style suits

Perfect for those who appreciate detailed, culturally rich designs and visual storytelling.

7. Minimalist tattoos

Minimalist tattoos feature simplicity, clean lines, and small, elegant designs that convey meaning through subtlety.

Emphasis on simplicity and clean lines

These tattoos follow the “less is more” philosophy, focusing on essential shapes and negative space for visual balance.

Popular designs

Geometric shapes, florals, small animals, and symbols—often done in fine black lines.

Who this style suits

Perfect for individuals who value simplicity, elegance, and timelessness.

8. Dotwork tattoos

Dotwork tattoos use tiny dots to build patterns, shading, and images, resulting in intricate and textured designs.

Techniques of using tiny dots to create images

Artists apply thousands of small dots, adjusting spacing to create gradients and depth.

Common applications

Often used in mandalas, sacred geometry, or abstract compositions, and sometimes blended with realism or blackwork.

Who this style suits

Ideal for those who appreciate detailed, meditative patterns and artistic precision.

9. New school tattoos

New school tattoos are known for their bold outlines, bright colours, and exaggerated, cartoon-like elements.

Evolution of traditional tattoo styles

Emerging in the late 20th century, this style blends graffiti, comic, and pop art influences for a lively, playful result.

Use of exaggerated features and vibrant colours

Designs feature neon tones, oversized proportions, and whimsical subjects that defy convention.

Who this style suits

Perfect for those who enjoy bold, unconventional, and expressive tattoos that reflect creativity and individuality.

10. Portrait tattoos

Portrait tattoos capture the likeness of a person or animal with realism and emotional depth.

Techniques for capturing likeness

Artists use detailed shading, fine lines, and careful highlights to achieve accuracy from photo references.

Popular subjects

Commonly feature loved ones, celebrities, or pets—serving as personal tributes or memorials.

Who this style suits

Ideal for those who value realism and want to preserve a meaningful connection through art.

Final thoughts

As we wrap up our exploration of the ten most popular tattoo styles, remember that choosing the right one is all about personal expression and connection. Take your time and choose a style that resonates deeply with you.

For tattoo artists ready to bring these styles to life, make sure you're equipped with the best tools for the job. Explore our collection of top-quality tattoo machines, vibrant inks, and soothing aftercare products to keep your art sharp and your clients happy.