Today, getting a tattoo is very trendy for men. Women find men with tattoos very sexy and masculine. Tattoos can also be a fantastic way to showcase your personality. Some men know what they want, while others need a little guidance when choosing the best tattoo for men.
If you are looking for a new tattoo or getting your first tattoo, you will love the below 50 tattoo ideas for men. Here you will find everything from minimalist tattoos to full-blown arm sleeves, as well as meaningful tattoo designs for men.
But first, remember to keep an open mind and don’t just get the first cool-looking one you find.
Contents
- 1 Tattoo Ideas For Men
- 1.1 1. Tribal Tattoos For Men
- 1.2 2. Star Tattoos For Men
- 1.3 3. Celtic Tattoos For Men
- 1.4 4. Skull Tattoos For Men
- 1.5 5. Small Tattoos for Men
- 1.6 6. Music Tattoos For Men
- 1.7 7. Leg Tattoos
- 1.8 8. Compass Tattoos For Men
- 1.9 9. Roman Numeral Tattoos For Men
- 1.10 10. Koi Fish Tattoos
- 1.11 11. Dragon Tattoos
- 1.12 12. Anchor Tattoos
- 1.13 13. Lettering Tattoos
- 1.14 14. Cross Tattoos
- 1.15 15. Angel Tattoos
- 1.16 16. Viking Tattoos
- 1.17 17. Rose Tattoos
- 1.18 18. Medusa Tattoos
- 1.19 19. Religious Tattoos
- 1.20 20. Name Tattoos
- 1.21 21. Simple Tattoos
- 1.22 22. Feather Tattoos
- 1.23 23. Arrow Tattoos
- 1.24 24. Snake Tattoos
- 1.25 25. Tiger Tattoos
- 1.26 26. Lion Tattoos
- 1.27 27. Owl Tattoos
- 1.28 28. Bird Tattoos
- 1.29 29. Animal Tattoos
- 1.30 30. Wave Tattoos
- 1.31 31. Geometric Tattoos
- 1.32 32. Money Tattoos
- 1.33 33. Crown Tattoos
- 1.34 34. Portrait Tattoo
- 1.35 35. Clock Tattoos
- 1.36 36. Grim Reaper Tattoos
- 1.37 37. Angel Wings Tattoos
- 1.38 38. American Flag Tattoos
- 1.39 39. Blackwork Tattoos
- 1.40 40. Joker Tattoos
- 1.41 41. Hand Tattoos For Men
- 1.42 42. Shoulder Tattoos For Men
- 1.43 43. Stomach Tattoos For Men
- 1.44 44. Forearm Tattoos For Men
- 1.45 45. Neck Tattoos For Men
- 1.46 46. Back Tattoos For Men
- 1.47 47. Head Tattoos For Men
- 1.48 48. Knuckle Tattoos
- 1.49 49. Arm Tattoos
- 1.50 50. Face Tattoos
- 2 Coloring & Placement of Body Art for Men
Tattoo Ideas For Men
1. Tribal Tattoos For Men
Tribal tattoos for men are one of the most popular tattoo designs out there today. Although tribal tattoos come in a wide range of variety depending on the cultures, the one thing that they have in common is their very artistic interpretation. With the linear lines and bold edges, it is no wonder why tribal tattoos are so popular among men.
Ancient tribes used symbols to represent their social status to provide protection to the wearer or express themselves. In most cases, these designs are detailed, using meaningful patterns to the chosen tribe, and this is an excellent way to remember your roots. Tribal tattoos tend to look best on shoulders and arms.
2. Star Tattoos For Men
Star tattoos for men are a great classic and look very good in multiple colors of dark ink. The North Star is by far the most common star tattoos for men design. The meaning here is to remind one of his path in life or how to find it again.
To many people, stars symbolize hope, guidance, or even the chance to wish for something better. It makes sense that men choose to get star tattoos because they have such deep symbolic meaning.
3. Celtic Tattoos For Men
Celtic tattoos are inspired by the traditional art of the Celtic people who inhabited western Europe. The Celtic style of energetic circular forms, knots, spirals, and triskeles has a timeless appeal that lends itself very well to tattoo art. Celtic tattoo designs probably owe some of their popularity because they can be excellent ‘space fillers.’ A talented artist can create an interlocking Celtic tattoo design to cover the required amount of space. They can also be a very effective way to link other tattoos together or frame them.
People often get Celtic tattoos to express their patriotism and individuality who consider themselves Celts or Celtic origin. Most commonly, people from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and occasionally England.
4. Skull Tattoos For Men
Skull tattoos can have many different meanings, depending on the tattoo design. A human skull with large, gaping, eye sockets can look very visually striking. However, the skull has long been regarded by most cultures as a symbol of death. Skull tattoos show that the wearer has no fear of death and has accepted their mortality, which is pretty cool! They could also remind the wearer that they will die one day, so they should live each day to the full. Because of this association with death, skull tattoos can also be an excellent choice to commemorate a friend or loved one’s death. While some skull tattoo designs can look quite scary, colorful skull tattoos can be quite the opposite!
5. Small Tattoos for Men
Small tattoos are not a girl’s thing anymore. When it comes to ink, size doesn’t matter, and small tattoos are the real proof that less is more. Sometimes a tiny tattoo can be more artistic and tasteful than a large tattoo. They can pack a ton of meanings in a tiny space. The Bigger the better, is more like an ego thing for men. You don’t have to get a full sleeve or big back tattoo to look trendy or badass, just because you are a guy. The small tattoos for men look as badass as the big tattoos.
6. Music Tattoos For Men
Music has the power to move us. It can uplift us, improve our moods, and inspire us. It makes us feel love, hate, and every other human emotion you can think of, so it is no wonder that it is also the inspiration for tattoos. Many men want to show their deep appreciation for music by getting a music tattoo. Music tattoos are becoming increasingly popular with men.
Your imagination is your limit when choosing a music tattoo; you can include flowers, sheet notes, and lyrics or keep it simple.
7. Leg Tattoos
In contemporary tattooing, leg tattoo designs are becoming more common. Leg tattoos are often underappreciated since most guys like to get tattoos on their arms, chest, shoulder, or back. Despite this, many cool leg tattoo designs take advantage of this excellent canvas. Whether you want a tattoo on your thigh, calf, shin, ankle, or even an entire leg sleeve tattoo, getting a leg tattoo may be the perfect choice for some guys.
8. Compass Tattoos For Men
There is a lot of detail on a compass, which makes it a cool tattoo design. A compass tattoo can be associated with a strong sense of direction, perseverance, and a love for travel. It’s a versatile option that can be complicated or straightforward depending on your preference, and it suits well on any part of the body.
9. Roman Numeral Tattoos For Men
The Roman Numeral Tattoos have risen in popularity over the past few years. Not only do they create interest in the wearer and the meaning of the numbers written on the body of the wearer, but they also give the rest of us a reason to learn Roman Numerals in Math class.
They lend themselves to be emblazoned across a back, down a spine, down the outside of a leg. However, they work just as well as a small delicate affair just inside a wrist, ankle, or a small piece on the back.
There are many reasons why people may have Roman Numeral Tattoos as their tattoo of choice. It may be commemorating the date of passing a loved one or a more joyous event such as the birth of a child or a wedding anniversary.
10. Koi Fish Tattoos
Koi Fish Tattoos are derived from real Koi fishes that have a fascinating history and mythology. Both sides of the globe acknowledged their hybridization, which is a very delicate matter. If you release them into the wild, they will revert to their regular gray coloring within several generations. An additional piece of trivia, the breeding of Koi, led to the development of the common goldfish.
Although China was the first on the eastern part of the globe to start working with this carp, Japan introduced them to the world. The word Koi in Japanese translates to carp.
Traditionally people bred different color Koi fishes for beauty. As in all things, different colors symbolize different things. The same applies to Koi Fish Tattoos. Some agree with this, and others do not. It’s your choice.
11. Dragon Tattoos
Dragon tattoos are a trendy choice of tattoo designs. Dragons are mythical creatures, which appear in many cultures throughout the world. The popularity of Dragon tattoos is easy to explain. Dragons are commonly depicted as spiritual beings combining beauty and intelligence with strength and power.
12. Anchor Tattoos
There is so much history associated with anchor tattoos. The early Christian sailors used anchor tattoos as a symbol of the cross. In time anchor tattoos were worn by experienced sailors as a rite of passage. In modern times anchor tattoos are seen on sailors for the pride of their job and also water lovers to symbolize the love of boating and water sports. Anchor tattoos also have a meaning of stability and strong foundations, which is its real appeal these days with men.
13. Lettering Tattoos
Lettering tattoos are pretty simple, and they are not only about the words, which could be the name of a loved one or a place of significance, but also about the style. The font and the size of these letters make it unique. Fonts can range from popular options such as Arial to more fancy ones like Calligraphy. Ideally, you should choose a font that appeals to you but also emphasizes your tattoo.
14. Cross Tattoos
You can honor your faith in many ways, including getting a cross tattoo. In the Christian faith, the symbol represents Jesus Christ’s willingness to sacrifice himself for the good of humanity. Although each interpretation of the cross tattoo is different, designs can be simple or elaborate and incorporate various elements.
15. Angel Tattoos
Angel tattoos are a very popular choice of tattoo designs. Angels appear in many religions, particularly Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Beings resembling angels also appear in many other religions around the world. Angels are the messengers from heaven. The popularity of Angel tattoos is easy to explain. Angels are commonly depicted as beings of great beauty and grace. Also, angels encapsulate purity and faithfulness and having an Angel tattoo can be like carrying your guardian angel with you everywhere you go. Some people even choose to have angel wings tattooed on their back – perhaps to reflect that they aspire towards angel-like qualities themselves.
16. Viking Tattoos
Vikings were the groups of warriors who came from Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Denmark and Sweden between 700 AD – 1100 AD (known as Viking age) in order to raid and settle in Europe, Asia and North Atlantic . Vikings were famous for their sailing and navigational skills. The name ‘Viking’ came from a language called ‘Old Norse’ that means ‘Pirate Raid’. They used to sail in their longboats and raid the coasts of Britain and nor-west of France for centuries.
These days Viking tattoos are very popular among the people with Norse heritage who like to show their pride by carrying Viking tattoos on them. Others get Viking tattoos fascinated by the Norse mythology, culture and beliefs.
Modern Viking tattoo designs are not actually from the Viking age but mostly inspired by the Norse mythology including mythological objects, animals, symbols and weapons.
17. Rose Tattoos
While flower tattoos have always been popular, the most popular type of flower tattoos is definitely the Rose tattoos. Roses associates with beauty, love, and romance. It is also the flower of passion. Valentine’s Day would hardly exist without this bold and beautiful bloom. Because they come in various colors, roses make for quite versatile tattoos.
18. Medusa Tattoos
The myth of Medusa has captivated us for almost 3,000 years. Today her images still command instant recognition around the world. Medusa is probably one of the most misunderstood characters in Greek mythology. People depict her as a cruel monster, but she was quite the opposite.
If you are into ancient mythologies and looking for an interesting tattoo, then you will like the designs of medusa tattoos. You can incorporate different elements into the design.
There are many ways to portray Medusa. You can either go for a realistic look or cartoonish look. According to the legend, Medusa had a hideous face, so a lot of people portray her as a monster. However, some give her a face of an angel. So, the choice is totally up to you.
19. Religious Tattoos
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 tattoo designs are often uplifting and encouraging, reminding the wearer they have a purpose or a guiding force to help them find their way.
20. Name Tattoos
Name tattoos are and will always be popular. Names are labels used to signify our identity. For that reason, they make great tattoos. For some, it’s the birth of a child, others a deceased loved one, a new love, a person who has put you on a path of righteousness, or someone who has saved your life in one way or another.
A suggestion for those who are not sure about a name tattoo is to consider placing it in a hidden spot.
21. Simple Tattoos
If you prefer clean or minimalistic designs, you will like simple tattoos, just as cool and meaningful as any other tattoos. Their simplicity makes them so appealing; they often stay away from colored ink and shading in favor of basic shapes and outlines. Simple tattoos are an excellent choice for more classic and laidback men and want a tattoo that reflects these qualities.
22. Feather Tattoos
When considering getting a new tattoo, a feather tattoo may not be one of the first things that come to mind – but maybe it should be! Feathers are rich in history, culture, and symbolism. Before you choose the type of feather you might like to get added to your body art collection, consider the different types and what they mean. Feathers can symbolize thousands of things literally, and it all depends on who you ask. They can mean luck, love, loss, courage, and so much more. Keep reading to find out more.
23. Arrow Tattoos
Arrow tattoos are not only a terrific way to show the direction you are heading, but they can also symbolize strength. Native Americans used arrows for hunting, and by warriors, it was a means of protection. Depending on the complexity of the design, there are numerous design options available. If this is your first tattoo, you may want to keep it simple without color or shading as a great way to ease into the process!
24. Snake Tattoos
If you are looking to make a statement or just want to grab the attention when you’re at a party or in a crowd, then snake tattoos are for you. Snakes are most often seen in evil or menacing stance, coiled and ready to strike. Usually, the meanings that are popular with men are power, darkness, and authority.
Snakes are also seen with a positive meaning like power, authority, wisdom, protection, balance, and life cycle, giving snake tattoos plenty of versatility.
Some people get a snake tattoo for the pure love of the serpent and show them off with pride.
25. Tiger Tattoos
Tigers are one of the most fearsome and graceful animals on the planet. In Asia, tigers have traditionally represented the power of kings and great rulers. According to folklore throughout the world, tigers are said to protect the good and bring devastation upon the evil.
They are fierce and deadly animals, well adapted to their environment, and equipped to handle any struggles they might face. All of these make the tiger a very appealing animal to people in any culture. Their vibrant colors and magnificent form also make tigers an excellent choice for body art that stands out and makes a bold statement.
If you are looking for a tattoo that is both beautiful and representative of strength, power, and justice, then it has to be tiger tattoos!
26. Lion Tattoos
The lion is one of the most popular animals for people to get tattooed on their bodies, and they have been for centuries. The lion symbolizes royalty and self-confidence. It once was, and still is in some cultures, viewed as a creature of aristocracy and law. In the past, the people of Asia got tattooed with lion images to show that they are full of energy and very powerful. Today, lion tattoos signify the same things, plus courage, glory, victory, strength, vitality, spirit, and masculinity.
27. Owl Tattoos
Owl tattoos can be a popular choice of tattoo design. The popularity of the Owl is easy to explain. With their large eyes, Owl’s have a very distinctive appearance. The forward-facing eyes and prominent ears of many owls also give them an appearance closer to our own than that of other birds. Also, for many people, Owls epitomize wisdom and experience. Owls are very clever hunters and of a solitary nature. They are also winged creatures, possessing much grace – Owls possess the innate ability to fly silently. Owl’s hunt only at night, so perhaps this nocturnal nature also appeals to some. They can also have quite spiritual significance and are featured prominently in the legends of many cultures.
28. Bird Tattoos
Bird tattoos are trendy for men. The bird itself stands for the liberation of the soul and the mind. Many people see them as a victory of good against evil. They also play an essential role in legends and culture, making them extremely respected in many places throughout the world. However, even though the bird is highly regarded in many places, it is a symbol of negativity in some areas. Before getting a bird tattoo, do some research and choose carefully. Even though birds are beautiful, you have to live with them forever, so take the time to make the right choice for you!
29. Animal Tattoos
If you have a favorite animal or you like certain qualities that a creature is usually associated with, it makes sense to get an animal tattoo. You can choose from various options, including wolves, elephants, and gorillas, to make something truly unique. A reputable tattoo artist can help you create a meaningful tattoo.
30. Wave Tattoos
Do you love the ocean, water and adventures? Then a cool wave tattoo will be prefect for you to show your passion for them. Sound of waves breaking against the sand is very calming and therapeutic. Wave can be calm or aggressive just like human emotions. A simple wave tattoo can carry the deepest meanings. People get wave tattoos because they feel a strong connection with the ocean.
31. Geometric Tattoos
Geometric tattoo is perhaps the oldest tattoo design based on simple mathematical patterns. Geometry provides symmetry and you can find it in anything and anywhere. Geometry is the architecture of all living organisms and a simple dot or a triangle or a circle can have so many meanings. So, the geometric symbols are the fundamental building blocks of all things in the universe. Geometric tattoos are made of various geometric shapes.
32. Money Tattoos
If you believe that money makes the world go round, a tattoo of a bill or coin may be particularly appealing to you. Cash also signifies wealth, profit, and success, making it a perfect choice for a man who wishes to remind himself of his ambition to accomplish his goals, whether financial or otherwise.
33. Crown Tattoos
Do you feel like a king in the making? Well, why not get a crown tattoo, then? The crown represents power and royalty and the desire to be better or self-control, making it an appropriate design to get inked into your skin. Men often get matching crown tattoos with their partners as well.
34. Portrait Tattoo
A portrait tattoo is a great way to honor a loved one or a celebrity who has inspired you. While it is a wonderful way to preserve the memory of the individual you have chosen to ink, but it also requires a lot of skill to create the tattoo. Take the time to research the various tattoo artists before selecting the person who will work on your design.
35. Clock Tattoos
We all understand the concept of time and how we have a limited amount of it, which is why a clock tattoo is a thought-provoking choice. A clock tattoo often represents the balance between life and death. If you think a lot about your mortality, it might be the right tattoo for you. People also get it to honor the memory of a loved one, with the timepiece indicating when they passed. It can also be a touching way to announce the birth of a child. You can also incorporate other elements, such as roses and trees, which signify life, skulls, and fire, representing something darker.
36. Grim Reaper Tattoos
Grim Reaper tattoos are one of the old school tattoos that were popular for decades, and they are still very trendy.
For thousands of years, various cultures have had figures to represent death. One of the most common and enduring of all is the Grim Reaper. Grim Reaper is a personification of death depicted in the form of a cloaked skeleton wielding a large scythe. In some mythologies, the Grim Reaper causes death by collecting humans’ souls. Grim Reaper is also known as the Angel of Death. Death is most often personified in male form, although in some cultures, death is a female.
37. Angel Wings Tattoos
Not sure if angels have wings but angel wings tattoos are extremely trendy among the tattoo lovers. For the past decades, angel wings tattoos never went out of fashion. The designs of angel wings tattoos can be pretty simple and basic, but you can also personalize them in countless ways. Meanings of Angel wings tattoo are also as diverse as its designs, so it appeals to both men and women from all walks of life.
38. American Flag Tattoos
What can be better than getting an American flag tattoo to show your love for your country?
39. Blackwork Tattoos
Blackwork tattoo style is a fascinating and unique approach to tattooing. The first impression of the tattoos looks like some old body paints. A lot of people often think of them as cover-up tattoos as they sometimes cover a large area of skin. It is not always the case.
The origin of Blackwork tattooing goes back millennia. The “black” actually refers to the material used in the history of tattooing of thousands of years. People have been using charcoal to make black pigments for more than 7000 years.
So basically, any tattoos that use only black ink for shading and line work are considered Blackwork tattoos. This style of tattoos are distinguished for their bold lines, dense black shading, and the perfect use of negative space.
40. Joker Tattoos
Joker tattoo is probably one of the most popular tattoos among the comic fans. People are fascinated by the Joker. His cheeky grins, twisted humor, green hair, purple suit and the makeup made him one of the most iconic villains of all time.
41. Hand Tattoos For Men
Getting a hand tattoo is a huge commitment. Even if you wear a full sleeve shirt, your hands are still going to be very visible. Before committing to a hand tattoo, make sure you understand the pros and cons so that you won’t have any regrets afterward.
42. Shoulder Tattoos For Men
One of the most common questions people ask before getting a tattoo is where to place it on their body. An excellent location option for anyone considering getting new ink is the shoulder. You can easily conceal shoulder tattoos with the most professional attire and show off during the summer months.
Shoulder tattoos can be beautiful and trendy. Moreover, the unique shape of the shoulders allows for some extremely creative and unique designs.
43. Stomach Tattoos For Men
A stomach tattoo can give you a sexy look that’s easy to hide. However, be aware that stomach tattoos tend to look best on toned bodies and can stretch out if you gain weight.
44. Forearm Tattoos For Men
Forearm tattoos are usually considered “manly” and only suitable for men but recently more and more women have become interested in getting them as well. While a lot of people opt out of getting a forearm tattoo for fear of not being able to find work, others embrace it. The people who choose to get forearm tattoos usually get bold and decorative designs that they are proud to show off.
45. Neck Tattoos For Men
Besides the face, the neck is probably the most visible part of your body. With neck tattoos, I can guarantee you that you are going to grab a lot of attention, which can be good and bad.
It’s so amazing how neck tattoos can radically alter your whole appearance. It also has the power to make or ruin the image that you have been trying to create. Choosing a tattoo design for neck is an important decision since it sits so close to your face. Everyone will notice your neck tattoo when you are meeting people for the first time. It is a part of your first impression and will always represent you. So, you must think carefully about choosing the design that will suit your personality and how you would like to express yourself in public.
46. Back Tattoos For Men
Back tattoos are easily hideable. If you are conscious about it, you can hide a back tattoo very easily by wearing a t-shirt. So, if you want to sort of look tattooed but you also want to be able to hide it easily, then a big back piece is a way to go.
The back offers a massive canvas. You can put almost any design you want on the back because it provides a flat surface and a lot of room for your artwork. Portraits look stunning on the back whether they are side-facing or front-facing, you can add so much detail there.
47. Head Tattoos For Men
If you don’t already have a tattoo on your body and going for a head tattoo first, then probably it’s not the best decision. It is better to wait before you jump to those exposed places. Start by getting a tattoo on your arms, forearms and slowly move on to the neck and head. But if you’re over 30 or full of tattoos and you want to get your head tattooed, then, by all means, go for it.
I think head tattoos look super cool, and they give you a badass look.
48. Knuckle Tattoos
Knuckle tattoos are not for everyone. Some people are quick to stereotype you as a possible drinker who made a big mistake. The absolute truth with knuckle tattoos is that most people who choose knuckle tattoos do so because they have a deeply personal or profoundly symbolic message, and they genuinely want the world to see it.
49. Arm Tattoos
Arm tattoos work nicely with some of the most incredible tattoo ideas. You really can’t go wrong with arm tattoos. There are so many designs and styles to choose from, and a choice of an upper, back, front, side, forearm, bicep, tricep, or full sleeve tattoo, makes the arm the ideal spot for tattoos.
50. Face Tattoos
The thought of getting a face tattoo could be an extreme thing for most people. Even if people are skeptical about it, we are seeing a lot of face tattoos these days. Face tattoos have become very popular and trendy now.
Before getting a face tattoo, you should consider that it is forever. Getting a face tattoo is a big commitment, and it will definitely change your image and your life. So it would help if you put a whole lot of thought before getting your face tattooed.
Coloring & Placement of Body Art for Men
Coloring for tattoos for men looks great in single dark-colored ink. By adding colors, some of the designs will look more appealing to the eye. White, black, red, blue, yellow, brown, orange will be standard colors found in these tattoos. Try and use your favorite colors here.
Placement for tattoos for men will depend on size; small tattoos look great on the neck, forearm, chest, hand, calf. Larger tattoos look great on the back, shoulder, upper arm, chest, waist, thigh, lower leg.
Tattoos for men are fun to design. If you have not made up your mind yet on a design, seek a tattoo artist for their advice and look through the gallery images to help you find the right tattoos for men that fit your need.
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