For many males nowadays, getting a tattoo is a no-brainer.
After all, some ink can be a seriously cool way to showcase your personality. But, while the choice to go under the needle may be easy, the decision of what exactly to get tattooed on your body and where can be challenging. To ensure you don’t end up regretting your tat in ten years’ time, it’s important to approach the process thoughtfully. To help you do so, we’ve created this ultimate guide filled with advice on how to choose the best tattoos for men.
Tattoo Ideas for Men
1. Small Tattoo
Small tattoos are appealing for many reasons, and it’s little wonder they are gaining in popularity. The great thing about tiny pieces is that you’re not limited in terms of placement, and you can get them inked behind your neck, or on your finger, if you so desire. These designs also tend to be more discreet, which can appeal to someone who wishes to cover them up or doesn’t want to draw attention to themselves. Plus, if this is your first time getting your skin inked, it’s a great way to ease into the process.
2. Simple Tattoo
If you prefer minimalistic designs, you will be drawn to simple tattoos, which are just as fresh and meaningful. The beauty of these pieces is just how uncomplicated they are, often focusing on basic shapes and outlines and avoiding colored ink and shading. This option is an excellent choice for a man who is more classic and laidback and wants a tattoo that reflects these qualities.
3. Animal Tattoo
If you have a favorite species or are inspired by certain qualities that a creature is usually associated with, then it makes sense to get an animal tattoo. There are so many different options to choose from, whether you want a wolf, or a majestic elephant, allowing you to design something unique to you. You will benefit from working with a reputable tattoo artist who can help to create a meaningful piece.
4. Portrait Tattoo
Honoring a loved one or a celebrity who has inspired you can be done through a portrait tattoo. It is a beautiful way to have a constant reminder of the significance of the individual you have chosen to ink, but it is also a piece that requires a lot of skill. Many ink artists will have a specific style that they specialize in, and you should do your research before finding the right one for your particular design. If you want great results, you need to find someone who focuses on portraiture, to ensure your ink does not look cartoony. You should also remember that the detail that this style requires will make for a lengthy tattoo session.
5. Lettering Tattoo
Lettering tattoos are relatively basic, and it is about not only the words, which could be the name of a loved one or a meaningful place but also the style. What makes each of these pieces unique is the font and size that have been chosen; these can range from frequently used options like Arial to fancier ones like Calligraphy. The importance is really to select something that appeals to you, but also emphases your tattoo.
6. Skull Tattoo
The skull is a universally recognized symbol and usually signifies death. Skull tattoos have been a much-loved design to tattoo for decades, although it was once favored by more hardened individuals who had a bit of a record for being tough. Nowadays, these pieces take on a wide range of different meanings and designs vary, often including roses, which represent love and beauty, or serpents, symbolizing wisdom or secrecy.
7. Cross Tattoo
Honoring your faith can be done in many ways, including getting a cross tattoo. The Christian religion sees the symbol as an essential part of its beliefs, as it represents Jesus Christ’s willingness to sacrifice himself for the good of humanity. There are many different ways to interpret the cross, though, and designs can be detailed and incorporate various other elements or be as simple as two lines intersecting.
8. Star Tattoo
When you look into the night sky, you will see countless stars. To many people, they symbolize hope, guidance, and even the chance to wish for something better. It makes sense then that individuals want to tattoo these astronomical objects onto their skin because of their deep personal meaning. There are several interpretations of the star tattoo design, with one of the most popular being the nautical star, which can represent your direction, or the ability to find your way home again.
9. Money Tattoo
There’s a common saying that money makes the world go round, and if you’re of that mindset, then a money tattoo of bills or coins may be particularly appealing. Cash also represents wealth, profit, and success, and is an excellent choice for the man who wants to remind himself of his ambition to attain his goals, financial or otherwise.
10. Angel Tattoo
If you want to honor a loved one who has passed or show your devotion to your faith, an angel tattoo is an excellent way to do that. Although there are many different interpretations of what these supernatural beings symbolize, most would associate them with purity and spiritual development. Other characteristics include protection and guidance, and the wearer may want a piece that serves as a reminder of how they are not alone.
11. Music Tattoo
Music plays a vital role in our lives and can uplift us, improve our moods, and inspire; this is even more true for those who play an instrument or simply have a deep love and passion for songs and sounds. When choosing a music tattoo, your creativity is your limit; you can incorporate other designs, such as flowers, sheet notes, and lyrics, or keep it simple.
12. Arrow Tattoo
Arrow tattoos are a fantastic choice to show the direction in your life, but can also represent strength. The weapon is often linked to Native American culture, where it was used for hunting, but also by warriors as a means of protection. There are numerous design options, and the complexity of your ink can vary. If this is your first piece, you may want to start small and keep it basic, without color or shading; a great way to ease into getting tattooed!
13. Feather Tattoo
Birds can soar above the sky, and this would not be possible without their wings. It is for this reason that feather tattoos often represent freedom or travel. The plumage is a popular tattoo option because of the meaning and message associated with it, and the wide variety of designs and interpretations make it an excellent choice for both men and women. It also represents different things to certain cultures; for example, in Christianity, it can be a symbol of virtue, while the Native Americans associate it with souls and spirits.
14. Crown Tattoo
Do you feel you have all the makings of a king? Well, why not a crown tattoo, then?! The head adornment is often associated with royalty; it thus represents power and glory, but can also signal self-control, or a desire to be better, making it a meaningful design to get inked onto your skin. Another popular choice is for men to get a matching crown tattoo with their partner.
15. Car Tattoo
Many men are passionate about motor vehicles, whether that’s for the design, engineering, or the need for speed, is up to you. We can see why car tattoos are such a popular option, though, and they can be incredibly eye-catching. If you have an emotional connection to your first car or worked hard to repair and rebuild one, both of these would make great ink options. Alternatively, you may simply be inspired by the automotive industry and bright colors; the choice is yours!
16. Family Tattoo
Our associations with our family make us who we are, and although not everyone has had a good upbringing, some want to honor their familial unit with a family tattoo. It’s a beautiful way to express your love and respect for those in your inner circle and shows dedication and loyalty. There are many different ways to create a piece like this, whether that be with realistic portraits, a meaningful quote, dates of birth, or names.
17. Scorpion Tattoo
Scorpions tattoos have been a popular choice for men to get inked for many years. They are both respected and feared and often serve as a warning for others not to get too close to the wearer. The predatory arachnid can cause pain, but it is also associated with protection or strength. Although there are many ways to ink this dangerous creature, the hyper-realistic versions are the most intimidating.
18. Tribal Tattoo
There are many variations of tribal tattoos, depending on the culture, but the one thing that they have in common is their very artistic interpretation. Initially, ancient tribes would use symbols to represent their social status, as a way to provide protection to the wearer, or simply to express themselves. Most of these designs are detailed, using patterns that are meaningful to the chosen tribe, and this is, therefore, an excellent way to honor your heritage. These pieces tend to look best on shoulders and arms.
19. Meaningful Tattoo
What is meaningful to one person may be entirely different for the next, and that is the beauty of getting a deeply personal meaningful tattoo. You can pay tribute to your nearest and dearest by including their names, dates of birth, or symbols that serve as a reminder of your bond with them. On the other hand, individuals can be inspired by animals or objects whose characteristics they may be able to relate with or give them purpose.
20. Name Tattoo
If you want a tattoo that has a lot of symbolism, then consider this meaningful design. The decision to ink someone’s name onto your skin says a lot about your feelings towards that person. Getting a name tattoo is deeply personal, and some choose the names of their family members, while others celebrate their friendships, or honor a loved one who has passed on. Regardless of whose moniker you want, this will be a piece that is unique to you!
21. Snake Tattoo
Snake tattoos are pretty badass, right?! They tend to make great options because of their versatility, and designs can be incredibly varied, with some people opting for vivid colors and large pieces that engulf their arm, while others want to keep it simple with a small black tattoo. One thing we can all agree on is that the serpent doesn’t just have a variety of design interpretations, but also meanings. It is a creature often associated with danger, but also rebirth and transformation because they shed their skin. In different cultures and religions, they can also symbolize varying things; for example, in Christianity, the snake represents sin, while in Japan, it could bring good luck and prosperity.
22. Compass Tattoo
A compass is a sophisticated navigational instrument, and the detailing makes it a super cool design. Still, it’s more than just the appearance that makes this symbol so common to get inked. The compass tattoo is often associated with a strong sense of direction, perseverance, and a love for travel. It’s a versatile option, which can be complicated or straightforward, depending on your preference, and suits many different placements on the body.
23. Elephant Tattoo
The symbolism associated with an elephant tattoo makes it an excellent option for any strong man. It is a majestic animal, celebrated for its wisdom and power. It is also a creature that symbolizes loyalty, prosperity, and good luck, which is why it is such a common choice for men to tattoo. You can opt for something small and uncomplicated, like an outline piece, or pick a large, detailed design that requires a spacious spot, like on your chest or back. One thing is sure; whatever design you choose, it will undoubtedly stand out!
24. Wolf Tattoo
Men who value family, loyalty, and protection are drawn to wolf tattoos because these beautiful animals often represent these characteristics. The animal lives in a pack, and its strength and survival are dependent upon the other members of this unit. This concept can remind the wearer of the importance of a familial bond, and the need to be there for loved ones. Alternatively, it can also represent a desire to be wild and free.
25. Phoenix Tattoo
The phoenix is a symbol of rebirth and renewal. The mythical bird is associated with fire and sun and cyclically regenerates, rising from the ashes. A phoenix tattoo appeals to anyone who has gone through a hard time but has survived it, only to come out stronger. This design is often best when created in vivid colors, including reds, oranges, and yellow, and tends to make quite the statement.
26. Dragon Tattoo
Dragon tattoos symbolize wisdom, fearlessness, and power, making it a popular choice for men to get inked onto their skin. These mythical beasts represent a variety of different things and have been featured in both European mythologies, as well as in East Asian cultures. They can be perceived as good or bad, and associated with fire or water elements. Depending on your interpretation, the color, and the size of the design, dragons can also represent passion, mystery, or fierceness.
27. Religious Tattoo
There are a variety of images that mean something special to individuals and their faith. For example, a dove or the face of Jesus Christ is relevant to Christians, while the Buddha is significant to Buddhists. Religious tattoos are connected to a person’s spirituality and those who want to show what it means to them. Designs like this are often considered to be uplifting and encouraging, reminding the wearer they have a purpose, or that there is a guiding force to help them find their way.
28. Moon Tattoo
The night sky is very dark without the light of the moon, and these ideas are translated into tattoo designs, with our natural satellite often symbolizing life, growth, and even creativity. The different phases also have varying meanings; for example, a waning design can encourage feelings of letting go and moving on, a crescent shape could be a time of transition, and a full moon is representative of something magical or transformative.
29. Tree Of Life Tattoo
Nature designs are popular symbols to get inked on your skin, but the tree of life tattoo is particularly meaningful. The importance of this ink is hard to ignore as it symbolizes immortality, renewal, knowledge, wisdom, and strength. It is something that has cross-cultural symbolism; in Norse mythology, it explores the link of the spiritual and human world, and in India, it is a connection between God and humankind. The design is intricate, often differing in color, shape, and style, but commonly features branches and roots intertwined in a circle. Some people choose to incorporate other elements into the piece, like birds or patterns.
30. Koi Fish Tattoo
Koi fish are of great importance in Japanese and Chinese culture, and in the form of tattoos, they often represent perseverance, determination, and strength, among other things. The worth of the species differs greatly depending on its size and color, and these designs look especially impressive when done in vibrant shades, as it makes the piece pop. There is also meaning behind the different hues, with red representing intense love or desire, blue is seen as a masculine option and associated with reproduction, and yellow or orange is connected to wealth and good fortune.
31. Bird Tattoo
Freedom and independence are two attributes connected to bird tattoos. Many of us wish we had the gift of flight and were able to fly away to new and far-off lands, which is why these beautiful winged creatures are so appealing. They may also represent the passing of a loved one, and the concept of heaven and earth. There are thousands of different bird designs, and the species, color, and size you choose to make your ink personal and unique. A goldfinch, for example, is associated with happiness, while a swallow is historically linked with sailors and represents exploration and travel.
32. Medusa Tattoo
In Greek mythology, Medusa was a female monster with venomous snakes for hair, and those who looked her in the eyes would be instantly turned to stone. It is a terrifying story, but these days, Medusa is considered more as a symbol of feminism and power. She can also represent mystery, jealousy, rebirth, and even death. The beauty in this tattoo is that it is out of the ordinary, appealing to men who want something different and thought-provoking.
33. Mom Tattoo
Many men choose to honor the loved ones in their lives with ink that includes dates, names, or portraiture, but a mom tattoo is common and rich in history. These classic pieces have been around for decades, and won’t be disappearing any time soon. As expected, this is a way to pay homage to mothers, but the designs, which vary significantly, are usually created in a Sailor Jerry style. It is thought that sailors, before a lengthy stint away from home, inked heart tattoos with the word “mom” to keep his family close.
34. Wave Tattoo
Maybe your horoscope is a water element, or you love the deep blue ocean? Either way, you can’t go wrong with a wave tattoo. It is one of the most versatile symbols and thus open to many different interpretations in both design and meaning. It could be a way to ‘go with the flow’ and not worry about being in control. Still, for others, the symbolism is associated with overcoming emotional turbulence or a difficult time in your life.
35. Aztec Tattoo
The ancient civilization of the Aztec people is an interesting one, and we should expect nothing less from the tattoo options. The symbols are highly detailed and complicated, but that is the beauty of the design. What can an Aztec tattoo mean for you? The answer varies, but they are generally mystical. Initially, they were created by the peoples who dominated Central America to honor a God, and there are many elements to the piece, including eagles, serpents, warriors, the sun, and a calendar. Each design is rich in symbolism and history; the calendar, for example, uses animal faces to represent a new month, while a warrior symbolizes the afterlife.
