10 Different Tattoo Styles for 2023

There are many different tattoo styles, each with its unique aesthetic, techniques, and cultural roots. Here are some of the most popular tattoo styles:

1) Tribal

This style draws inspiration from traditional tribal tattoos from various cultures, often featuring bold, abstract designs with heavy black linework. Artists who specialize in Tribal style often hand-draw their designs onto their client’s body before they begin tattooing instead of applying a stencil. Hand-drawing the design onto the client’s body can ensure that the lines flow well with the curves of the client’s body.

2) Floral

This style involves creating designs inspired by different types of flowers, often using bright and vibrant colors to create a visually stunning result. These tattoos can range from simple and minimalist designs to intricate and detailed pieces.

3) Realism

This style aims to create tattoos that look as realistic as possible, often featuring portraits, animals, or landscapes. Realism tattoos require a lot of skill to execute properly, as they often involve shading and intricate details.

4) Illustrative

This style focuses on creating tattoos that resemble illustrations or sketches. It often involves using bold, thick lines, with vivid colors or black and grey to create a visually striking design that stands out on the skin.

5) Fine Line

Fine Line tattooing is a technique that uses thin, delicate lines to create intricate designs. It is often used to create subtle and understated tattoos.

6) Black and Grey

This style uses only black ink and shading techniques to create a range of tones and textures. Black and Grey tattoos can be realistic or abstract and often have a softer, more subtle look than traditional tattoos.

7) American Traditional / Old School

This style of tattooing originated in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th century. It features bold lines, bright colors, and classic designs like anchors, roses, and eagles.

8) Neo-Traditional

A modern take on the american traditional style, neo-traditional tattoos often use brighter colors, more intricate designs, and incorporate elements from other styles like realism or surrealism.

9) Japanese

This style has a rich history and tradition and often features motifs like koi fish, dragons, and cherry blossoms. Japanese tattoos are typically large and cover entire limbs or backs and feature intricate linework and shading.

10) Watercolour

This style mimics the look of watercolor paintings, with bright, blended colors and no black outlines. Watercolor tattoos are often delicate and whimsical and require a skilled artist to execute well.

Takeaway:

The tattoo styles listed above are just a few examples of the many tattoo styles that exist, and many tattoo artists incorporate elements from multiple styles to create their unique look. If you are interested in a specific style, check out the following section of our website for references.

If you know the style you would like to get, share your tattoo idea with us and we can connect you with one of our artists :)