Tattoo Style Guide
Explore different tattoo styles and find the perfect one for your design
Traditional
Bold lines, vibrant colors, and classic motifs like roses, anchors, and swallows. Traditional tattoos feature solid black outlines and a limited color palette.
Key Characteristics:
- Bold black outlines
- Limited but vibrant color palette
- Classic Americana imagery
- Simple, clear designs
Neo-Traditional
A modern take on traditional style with a broader color palette and more detailed designs. Incorporates elements from art nouveau and illustration.
Key Characteristics:
- Bold lines with more detail
- Expanded color palette
- Illustrative elements
- Decorative patterns
Realistic
Highly detailed tattoos that look like photographs or real-life objects. Focuses on shading, depth, and precise detail work.
Key Characteristics:
- Photorealistic detail
- Complex shading
- Natural color gradients
- True-to-life proportions
Watercolor
Mimics the flowing, ethereal quality of watercolor paintings. Features soft edges, color bleeds, and artistic splashes.
Key Characteristics:
- Fluid color transitions
- Artistic splashes and drips
- Minimal outlines
- Soft color blending
Geometric
Uses geometric shapes and patterns to create intricate designs. Often incorporates sacred geometry and symmetrical patterns.
Key Characteristics:
- Precise lines and shapes
- Symmetrical patterns
- Sacred geometry
- Clean, minimal design
Minimalist
Simple, clean designs with minimal detail. Uses negative space and simple lines to create impactful imagery.
Key Characteristics:
- Simple line work
- Minimal shading
- Effective use of space
- Clean, uncomplicated design
Japanese
Traditional Japanese tattoo art (Irezumi) featuring mythological creatures, nature elements, and symbolic imagery.
Key Characteristics:
- Bold, flowing designs
- Traditional Japanese motifs
- Full-body integration
- Rich symbolism
Tribal
Inspired by indigenous tattoo traditions, featuring bold black patterns and cultural motifs.
Key Characteristics:
- Solid black designs
- Intricate patterns
- Cultural significance
- Bold, flowing shapes
Blackwork
Uses solid black ink to create striking designs. Can range from simple to highly detailed patterns.
Key Characteristics:
- Solid black ink
- High contrast
- Detailed patterns
- Geometric elements