10 Timeless Tattoo Designs That Will Be Cool Your Whole Life, From Flowers To Skulls (Yes, Skulls)
news flash: tattoos are permanent. I’d be lying if I said I thought long and hard about this before I had all my ink. in fact, it’s just luck that the ink I started using is still a relevant tattoo idea 10 years later. Yes! turns out this venus sign will probably be very relevant, no matter what year it is, as i have no plans to stop being a feminist or a girl. Of course, I can’t say the same for the “ironic” location I chose on my lower back, also known as the tramp’s seal. Well I can’t win them all I guess.
related: everything you need to know about getting a tattoo on your finger
It’s not always important that a tattoo be relevant in the pop culture sense in 10, 15 or 20 years; the important thing about your new ink is that it is relevant to you and you can stand to look at it. butterfly tattoos are the most removed tattoos in america today! ok i just made that stat up but if you remember everyone rushing to the nearest tattoo parlor to get a new butterfly or dragonfly tattoo on their 18th birthday back in the 90s and early 2000s then you know why there may be some truth. to my dummy stat.
Before you book your tattoo removal consultation, remember that the beauty of any fad is that trends are in constant rotation, and a well-done, intricate tattoo remains relevant and beautiful despite changing fashions. Unless you only have a tattoo that says “nobama” or depicts a left shark, you shouldn’t have a hard time defending the meaning of your tattoo in the future.
Luckily for my tattooed self, I’ve gotten pretty good at arguing that a hammer and sickle tattoo is totally timeless, but if you’re nervous about getting a tattoo that you and society can stare at for all eternity, here are several ideas of tattoos that will always be great.
1. animal tattoos
Some of the most intricate and detailed tattoos I’ve seen have been of animals. It doesn’t really matter which one you choose; animals are great. you can make them creepy, cute, or a tribute to your favorite pet and it will never look outdated.
2. hands
I recently started digging handmade artworks: a small palm, praying hands or even a middle finger make me smile. If you find the right artist, you can get a pair of hands that are simple yet timeless. after all, humans will probably always have hands.
3. flowers
It’s no surprise that flowers are one of the most popular tattoo ideas. they’re feminine without being cutesy, and a well-done set of petals can be absolutely stunning.
4. send her
I love mandala tattoos. This spiritual symbol is used in Hinduism and Buddhism to represent the universe, and there is nothing more relevant than the universe. Play around with the size and placement of your tattoo, but either way you’ll be left with an image and idea that will last a lifetime.
5. skulls
Hear me out on this. A flaming skull that reminds you of a guns n’ roses video may not be timeless, but a beautifully detailed moose skull will definitely hold up. if you have feelings for the dead, fear not, there are some pretty awesome skull ideas to keep you entertained forever.
6. dates
doesn’t date the fruit and it’s certainly not your last tinder date, but a date that has special meaning to you. a day of the year that makes you reflect on things past, present and future, such as the birthday of a friend who passed away or the sister’s tattoos from the date they both got tattooed together. Regardless, this idea can be made big or small and will remain relevant throughout your life.
7. timeless quotes
Dating can be complicated, but if it means anything to you now, it probably will in 10 years. Pick your favorite quote and catchy script and you can hardly go wrong, regardless of location.
8. initials
Initials are ideal for tattoos, especially behind the ear, on the wrist, or on the side of the neck. Just like tattooing dates on your body, this tattoo leaves something to the imagination and is highly personal… just the way tattoos should be.
9. ships
there are few tattoos that seem more badass to me than ships and boats. the details of these pieces are always on point, plus they symbolize adventure and peace, all in one image. you don’t have to have a boat to put this image on your body; anyone who loves water or exploring can enjoy this tattoo for all eternity.
10. places
The outline of the state that shaped you in your youth or a place of study abroad that left a lasting impression on you can be an ideal tattoo. It would only make sense for you to pay homage to that special place by leaving a lasting impression on your body with permanent ink. the moral of this article? If your tattoo provokes many emotions in you, it will always be relevant.
image: shannon mary/flickr; giphy: kristin collins jackson
