Tattoo Trends of 2023

Tattoos have come a long way from being frowned upon in the past. While tattoos can’t be called ‘mainstream,’ they are certainly more accepted in society.  No longer the sigil of the rebel, the tattoo is now an art form – a form of self-expression and creativity. And just like art tends to evolve over time, so do tattoos.  Read on for top tattoo trends for 2023.

Placement Trends

As tattoos are no longer taboo, tattoos are becoming more visible. So, you’ll see ink in interesting places like the ear, for example. Ear tattoos can complement a variety of ear piercings too. Back tattoos are (ahem!) back this year as well. Sleeves will continue to be popular, but with a twist – you’ll see what we mean soon.  Read on for some of the top trends you’ll see when it comes to the artwork itself.

1. Sticker Sleeves

Sleeves have always been fun, constructed with intermingling random images tattooed at different times by various artists or carefully constructed to look like they have. 2023 will see the rise of sticker sleeves. Sticker sleeves are a refreshing new take on the traditional sleeves with smaller images and loads of negative space that makes it look like the wearer has little stickers on the arms. The artworks can be random and unique, or you could go with a particular theme that is important to you.

1. Micro Tattoos

Teeny-tiny tattoos are all the rage. Typically, less than an inch squared, they are a great option for someone who wants a tattoo that’s easy to cover up. The best part about micro tattoos is that their fun size lets you get as quirky as you like. Think about it a little chilli pepper or tiny baguette is a fun tattoo to have while full sized versions of those particular items might just look a bit odd. Micro tattoos are also great for letter-work or meaningful numbers to mark something important. 

1. Ignorant Style Tattoos

Ignorant style tattoos continue the playful note set by micro tattoos and sticker sleeves. They are all typically line work with no shading and have a fun, cartoony look to them. Many people get an ignorant style tattoo with an ironic sense of humour. If there ever was a tattoo style that symbolizes the artwork and culture of today, the ignorant style tattoo is it. 

1. Nostalgia

This year is all about nostalgia too. We’ve seen it with makeup and hair trends as well as labret piercings making a comeback. Barbed wire tattoos are in vogue this year albeit in a much chicer form. You don’t have to have a barbed wire arm band (unless you want one, of course), you can incorporate the barbed wire motif into other designs like hearts and circles too. 

1. Black is Back

While traditional black and grey tattoos will never go out of style, illustrative blackwork tattoos are on-trend this year. Illustrative blackwork uses dotwork, lines, stippling and crosshatches to create depth and dimension. Blackwork tattoos are perfect for those who want a graphic style that takes inspiration from traditionalism and realism. 

1. Colour It Up

In stark opposition to blackwork, coloured tattoos in different styles are in demand in 2023. You’ll see coloured tattoos in a variety of styles, including delicate watercolours. While many of those with deeper skin tones are hesitant to get coloured tattoos, asking a tattoo artist for a colour test can help you see how different colours play off on your skin. 

1. Nature Inspired Tattoos

Nature inspired tattoos are another timeless tattoo trend. Different flowers, leaves, birds, or animals hold special significance to people, whether it is culturally or personally. Whether it’s the wolf that comes to you in your dreams or the delicate butterfly that symbolizes who you are, the inspiration for tattoos is endless.

BodyMods – A Place of Expression and Art

At BodyMods, The Studio is much more than just a place to get tattooed or pierced. It is a place for you to express your creativity and freedom. Modern, clean, and bright, it’s a far cry from the dingy tattoo parlours of the past. It’s a meeting place for everyone from all walks, and it’s just as much yours as it is ours. Read about the awesome tattoo artists that call it home and book your tattoo appointment here today.