There are countless tattoo styles to choose from today, each enriched by the unique flair of talented artists. Many of these styles take inspiration from historical designs that have been around for centuries.
If you’re considering getting involved in tattoo design, it’s helpful to be familiar with the current trends in this art form. Deciding on your ideal tattoo style can be challenging, but the options we’ve listed may help guide your choice.
**Classic Americana**
When you think of old-school tattoos, Classic Americana likely comes to mind. Known for their bold outlines, these tattoos often use a consistent palette and feature imagery linked to nautical themes, including hearts, roses, and pinup figures.
**New School**
In stark contrast to classic designs, New School tattoos resemble vibrant comic-book art, depicting colorful, chaotic worlds.
**Japanese**
Japanese tattoos are another traditional style that has gained global popularity. While modernized for today’s fashion, these designs still incorporate classic imagery like Japanese women, floral patterns, and samurais.
**Black and Grey**
For those who prefer something less colorful, black and grey tattoos offer a subtle alternative. This style can capture a wide range of images through different shades of black and grey, allowing for diverse subject matter without the use of color.
**Portraits**
Portrait tattoos provide a strikingly realistic representation of people, fitting into the realism genre. These designs forgo bold outlines, allowing for detailed and lifelike renditions in both color and black and grey tones.
**Stick and Poke**
Growing in popularity, the stick and poke technique involves using a single needle to create simple, distinctive designs. Originally popularized by DIY artists, professionals now bring their unique touch to this method, crafting beautiful, bold yet uncomplicated tattoos.
**Realism**
Realism tattoos are perfect for depicting beloved people or animals, offering the versatility to render virtually anything in intricate detail using color or shades of grey. Mastery of this art form requires a highly skilled tattoo artist to achieve strikingly accurate visuals.
**Blackwork**
Rooted in tribal designs, blackwork tattoos are known for their bold black lines and geometric patterns. Artists now push this genre further by integrating trending imagery and designs.
**Biomechanical**
Often drawn freehand, biomechanical tattoos adapt to the body’s flow, revealing intricate machinery beneath the skin. While less common among women, this sophisticated style demands a high level of skill and offers visually captivating results.
**Geometric**
Currently among the most fashionable choices, geometric tattoos combine precise shapes with organic elements to create striking contrasts. Nature motifs like flowers are paired with exact, angular designs following the body’s natural curves. Only an expert tattoo artist can achieve the precision these tattoos require.
These are some of today’s most popular tattoo styles. Which one do you like best?