35 Meaningful Tattoo Ideas for Women

PDF download Download Article
Popular and unique tattoo designs for ladies
PDF download Download Article

Historically, tattoos were seen as a more masculine art form, but these days, more and more women are getting tattooed. Still, it can sometimes be difficult to find tattoo designs in a feminine style. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve gathered some of the most popular tattoos for women with meanings, design and placement ideas, and general tattoo tips from professional tattoo artists.

1

Butterfly

PDF download Download Article
  1. Butterflies are popular tattoo designs for women because they’re small and delicate but hold a lot of significance. Because they transform from a caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly, these insects often symbolize rebirth, transformation, beauty, and freedom. Some people get butterfly tattoos to represent an important change in their life or to symbolize a departed loved one. [1]
    • Design ideas: Combine your butterfly tattoo with other design elements, like flowers or a quote. Choose your favorite butterfly, like a Monarch, or go for a delicate fine-line tattoo.
    • Placement ideas: Get a small butterfly on your wrist or ankle, or place a larger design on your back or ribs.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When deciding on a tattoo design , tattoo artist Burak Moreno suggests that you “Collect the designs you like as reference images and give them to an artist if you like their work and think they work in a similar style to your reference images. Let them design [the tattoo] for you.”
    2. Advertisement
2

Rose

PDF download Download Article
  1. Rose tattoos have a long history and are popular with many people. While the exact meaning can vary depending on the color of the rose, in general, roses are a symbol of beauty, love, and passion. Many women may choose a rose tattoo to represent a loving relationship. [2]
    • Design ideas: Consider the rose’s color when choosing a design. For example, white roses can symbolize purity, while black roses can symbolize strength or defiance.
    • Placement ideas: If you want a big tattoo, consider a sleeve or half-sleeve of roses or get several roses trailing up your thigh.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Tattoo artist Grant Lubbock advises being flexible about your tattoo design and placement: “The more willing you are as a client to work with the artist and let your artist guide you through the tattoo process, the better tattoo you’ll wind up with. If the client can be flexible with control over where the tattoo’s going, how it’s going to be placed, and all that stuff, overall, the tattoo will be much better.”
3

Medusa

PDF download Download Article
  1. In some versions of the Medusa myth, Medusa was sexually assaulted by Poseidon in Athena’s temple. Because of this, many sexual assault survivors have claimed Medusa tattoos as a symbol of protection, empowerment, and resilience. A Medusa tattoo can also represent female empowerment in general. [3]
    • Design ideas: Get a large portrait of Medusa to highlight the angry expression on her face and the intricate details of the snakes in her hair. Many popular Medusa designs are done in black and gray realism.
    • Placement ideas: Medusa tattoos are usually large and intricate, so display yours on your arm, thigh, or chest.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Moreno shares a classic motto: “Good tattoos are not cheap, and cheap tattoos are not good.” The price for a good tattoo will vary depending on your location, so be sure to check out the artist’s portfolio to make sure you like their work.
    2. Advertisement
4

Semicolon

PDF download Download Article
  1. The semicolon tattoo is most commonly associated with the Semicolon Project, a movement dedicated to mental health awareness. People often get semicolon tattoos as a symbol of strength in the face of mental health struggles, such as depression, self-harm, and anxiety. The semicolon represents a pause, rather than an end, in life’s journey. [4]
    • Design ideas: Stick with a simple semicolon or incorporate it into a larger design, like a butterfly, flower, or quote about hope and perseverance.
    • Placement ideas: Because semicolon tattoos are usually small, many people get them on their wrists, fingers, ankles, or behind their ears.
    • Tattoo pro tip: The location of your tattoo can determine how quickly it fades. Moreno explains, “If a tattoo is on your hand/finger or feet, it might fade as fast as 6 weeks.”
5

Quotes

PDF download Download Article
  1. Many women get tattoos of quotes that they find especially impactful or meaningful. The exact meaning of these tattoos depends on the quote used and the individual’s attachment to it.
    • Design ideas: Choose a quote that means something special to you, like your favorite song lyrics or something your favorite person always says. Consider having it tattooed in their handwriting, as well.
    • Placement ideas: Depending on the length of the quote and the font used, quote tattoos can look good on the wrist, forearm, collarbone, or ribs.
    • Tattoo pro tip: According to tattoo artist Katherine D. Vargas, people get tattoos for a variety of reasons: “People find different ways to cope or to find closure with things. I do a lot of grief tattoos, and that helps them a lot. [Sometimes], people just like the look and aesthetic of it, but mostly, it’s because of healing or overcoming something and becoming a better version of themselves.”
    2. Advertisement
6

Faces

PDF download Download Article
  1. If a woman gets a tattoo of someone’s portrait, it’s usually a way to honor or remember them, especially if it’s a portrait of a loved one. [5] However, fine line tattoos of generic faces have also become popular. These are often the outline of a woman’s face, so they may symbolize femininity and beauty.
    • Design ideas: If you want a portrait, consider getting it done in black and gray realism to highlight the details. For something more symbolic, consider a fine line outline of a face or pair of faces. These often look like they were drawn with one singular line.
    • Placement ideas: Many people place portraits or other tattoos of faces on their arms or legs.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Vargas warns, “Don’t expect one artist to know how to do every [style].” For example, if you want a fine line tattoo, look for an artist who specializes in that style. It’s probably not a good idea to go to someone who specializes in traditional or realism.
7

Heart

PDF download Download Article
  1. While roses traditionally represent romantic love, heart tattoos often represent all kinds of important relationships, including friends and family. While the color of the heart can add to or change the meaning, heart tattoos generally symbolize love, compassion, life, and emotional depth. [6]
    • Design ideas: Include additional design elements to give your heart tattoo new meanings. For example, a shattered heart could symbolize heartbreak, while a heart with wings could symbolize a soaring love. For something more unique, try an anatomical heart instead.
    • Placement ideas: Traditional heart tattoos often look good on the bicep or the forearm. Or, consider getting one on your chest to represent your actual heart.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When it comes to choosing the least painful area to get a tattoo, Vargas explains, “Everyone is different. I would definitely say the arms are the easiest, though.”
    2. Advertisement
8

Bird

PDF download Download Article
  1. While the exact meaning of a bird tattoo varies depending on the type of bird it is, in general, these tattoos symbolize freedom, independence, hope, and new beginnings. Many women get them as a visual representation of their journey or as a reminder of their ability to rise against adversity. [7]
    • Design ideas: Consider what kind of bird you want. For example, ravens symbolize spiritual connection and intelligence, sparrows are associated with freedom, and phoenixes symbolize rebirth.
    • Placement ideas: The collarbone and shoulder blade are popular locations for bird tattoos, especially if you’re getting a tattoo of several small birds flying. Larger tattoos of singular birds often look good on the arm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: To help handle the pain of a fresh tattoo, Vargas says, “Usually, the next day, I tell the clients to take a Tylenol or something because the body is in shock when you get a new tattoo.”
9

Lion

PDF download Download Article
  1. While lion tattoos are often considered masculine, many women also get these designs. In nature, female lions are hunters who also care for the cubs, making lion tattoos the perfect symbol for motherhood. Lions also symbolize courage, loyalty, and leadership. [8]
    • Design ideas: Lion tattoos are often done in black and gray realism. To make your design more feminine, consider pairing a lioness’s face with your favorite flowers.
    • Placement ideas: Lion tattoos often look good on the arm, leg, or back. Many people also get lion faces on the backs of their hands.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Depending on the size of your tattoo, don’t expect to get it done quickly. Vargas explains, “It’s not a fast process. People think it’s like you’re in and out, but it’s definitely like a two-hour process.” Your appointment may be longer or shorter depending on how large and intricate the design is, however.
    2. Advertisement
10

Skull

PDF download Download Article
  1. Skull tattoos are a great option for women who appreciate the darker things in life. In general, skulls symbolize death and the afterlife, serving as a reminder of our mortality. They also sometimes symbolize strength, rebellion, and non-conformity. [9]
    • Design ideas: If you want to add a more feminine touch, consider incorporating roses, hearts, or butterflies into your design. Or, embrace your edginess by including a snake, spider, or raven.
    • Placement ideas: Get a skull tattoo on your bicep or forearm, your thigh or calf, or your shoulder blade. These are versatile designs, so they look good practically anywhere.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When examining a tattoo artist’s portfolio, Lubbock says, “Look for clean linework, solid shading, smooth gradient shading, and consistency throughout pieces. Just because they have one rockstar piece in their portfolio doesn’t mean they’re going to be a good tattooer.”
11

Snake

PDF download Download Article
  1. Snake tattoos often represent transformation and rebirth because snakes shed their skin. [10] Snakes are also beautiful but deadly, so they also sometimes symbolize seduction and temptation. In some cases, they even represent fertility.
    • Design ideas: For a more feminine look, pair your snake with flowers or the moon and stars. Minimalist snake tattoos often look good with a pop of pink in the details or the background.
    • Placement ideas: Snake tattoos are extremely versatile. Get one on your forearm, wrapped around your collarbone, or slithering up your spine.
    EXPERT TIP

    Burak Moreno

    Tattoo Artist
    Burak Moreno is a Professional Tattoo Artist with over 15 years of experience. Burak is based in New York City and is a co-owner and tattoo artist for Fleur Noire Tattoo Parlour in Brooklyn. Born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, he has worked as a tattoo artist throughout Europe. He works on many different styles but mostly does bold lines and strong color. You can find more of his tattoo designs on Instagram @burakmoreno.
    Burak Moreno
    Tattoo Artist

    Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions. Each artist has different instructions, but in general, keep your clear bandage on for 3 days. After that, apply a very thin layer of the ointment your artist recommended 4-5 times a day. Keep your tattoo out of the sun and don’t submerge it in water for at least 3 weeks.

    2. Advertisement
12

Lotus

PDF download Download Article
  1. Historically associated with Buddhism and Hinduism, lotus flowers often symbolize purity and rebirth because they bloom out of the mud into beautiful white blossoms. Lotus tattoos also often represent spiritual growth and overcoming adversity. [11]
    • Design ideas: Lotus tattoos often pair well with mandalas or geometric backgrounds. Consider including watercolor elements for a splash of color.
    • Placement ideas: Depending on the size, get a lotus tattoo on your arm, back, foot, or collarbone.
    • Tattoo pro tip: While watercolor tattoos can look pretty at first, Moreno warns, “Watercolor fades way easier than any tattoo if it isn’t made the right way. It’s best if you use the watercolor effect as a supporter element. If it’s the main part of the design, it won’t hold very well.”
13

Wings

PDF download Download Article
  1. The meaning of a wing tattoo depends on the type of wings, but in general, wing tattoos symbolize freedom and the ability to rise above challenges. [12] Angel wings may represent spirituality, while feathered wings may symbolize strength and wisdom.
    • Design ideas: Consider the type of wings you want tattooed. For example, eagle wings are sometimes associated with hunters, while demon or dragon wings often symbolize power.
    • Placement ideas: Wing tattoos generally look best on the back, though you can also get them on the back of your neck or your calves.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Lubbock recommends checking a tattoo artist’s reviews before booking an appointment: “The client has a lot of tools at their fingertips, whether it's social media, Yelp, Google, Google Plus, etc. There are so many different platforms that they can go on and find an artist's work before they even step into the studio.”
    2. Advertisement
14

Cross

PDF download Download Article
  1. Many Christian women get cross tattoos as a symbol of their faith, as the cross represents sacrifice, salvation, and unconditional love. These tattoos serve as a reminder of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and can sometimes be a symbol of protection. [13]
    • Design ideas: Keep things simple with a minimalist cross, or incorporate other elements like flowers, birds, or your favorite Bible verse.
    • Placement ideas: Many women get cross tattoos on their arms, wrists, ankles, back, or ribcage.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Be careful about getting hand, neck, or face tattoos. Moreno says these are “job stopper tattoos,” as they may prevent you from getting hired for certain jobs.
15

Dreamcatcher

PDF download Download Article
  1. In some Native American cultures, dream catchers are hung above the bed to catch bad dreams and allow good dreams to pass through to your mind. Because of this, dreamcatcher tattoos are often symbols of protection, safety, and beauty. [14]
    • Design ideas: Add a pop of color to your dreamcatcher tattoo by including colorful feathers or flowers. Add other elements of nature, like birds or butterflies, or consider including a watercolor background.
    • Placement ideas: Get a large dreamcatcher on your arm, or opt for a smaller design on your ribs or behind your ear.
    • Tattoo pro tip: “If they’re going to have a long appointment,” tattoo artist María Fernández González explains, “I will recommend that [the client] takes something to drink, maybe some snacks. When you are getting a tattoo, your body temperature feels lower, so something that I think helps a lot of people to feel calm and relaxed is to take a little blanket with them.”
    • Note: Dreamcatchers are very important to many indigenous cultures, so getting a dreamcatcher tattoo may be considered cultural appropriation if you aren’t of Native American descent.
    2. Advertisement
16

Wolf

PDF download Download Article
  1. While we often think of the “lone wolf,” wolves are typically pack animals, so wolf tattoos frequently symbolize loyalty and family. These designs also commonly represent strength, protection, freedom, and intelligence. [15]
    • Design ideas: Get a wolf’s face paired with other natural elements, like flowers or the moon. Wolf tattoos also look good with geometric backgrounds.
    • Placement ideas: Wolf tattoos are often placed on the forearm or upper arm, though larger designs may look better on the back.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Lubbock suggests seeing the tattoo shop in person before committing to getting a tattoo there: “You can generally just walk into a shop and look around to pick up on cues as to whether or not the shop is clean. Many shops will often open their doors and show you the back so they can show you their cleaning rooms and how they sterilize.”
17

Sunflower

PDF download Download Article
  1. Known for their bright yellow patterns, sunflowers are often symbols of joy and optimism. Sunflower tattoos also sometimes represent loyalty, hope, resilience, and personal growth. Because sunflowers follow the sun, they can also symbolize an individual’s devotion to seeking light and truth. [16]
    • Design ideas: Sunflower tattoos are often done in color to highlight their bright yellow petals, though more minimalist designs also look cute in black and gray.
    • Placement ideas: Many people get sunflower tattoos on their arms, though they also look good on the back, ribcage, or ankle.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Moreno warns, “In my experience white and yellow [ink] fade the fastest.” If you get a sunflower tattoo, it’s a good idea to outline it in black so the color holds better.
    2. Advertisement
18

Moon

PDF download Download Article
  1. Moon tattoos are popular with women because, in many cultures, the moon is associated with femininity, motherhood, and intuition. Because the moon goes through different phases, moon tattoos also commonly symbolize growth and transformation. [17] When paired with the sun , a moon tattoo can also represent duality and balance.
    • Design ideas: Get a minimalist tattoo of your favorite moon phase, or opt for a more detailed design by including flowers or geometric elements. Consider giving your moon a face, as well.
    • Placement ideas: Moon tattoos look good almost everywhere. Get a smaller design on your wrist, ankle, or behind your ear, or get a larger design on your sternum, forearm, or back.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When it comes to placing your first tattoo, tattoo artist Michelle Myles says, “That’s a personal preference. A lot of times, it just goes back to how visible you want it to be. Girls sometimes go for the ankle or shoulder, but I would say get it where you really want it.”
19

Sun

PDF download Download Article
  1. The sun provides us with the warmth and light necessary for life, so sun tattoos frequently symbolize vitality, growth, and the ability to overcome darkness. While the sun is associated with masculinity in many cultures, women often get sun tattoos to represent positivity, hope, and new beginnings. [18]
    • Design ideas: Like the moon, opt for something small and minimalist, or give your sun a face. Though the sun is known for its brightness, most people tend to get sun tattoos in black and gray.
    • Placement ideas: Get a small sun on your wrist or ankle, or place a larger design on your back, sternum, thigh, or arm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: “Many girls are targeting this kind of sticker tattoo,” Fernández González says. “It’s just like a little word or a little symbol, and they are doing them in a very, very small size, mostly on a single needle.”
    2. Advertisement
20

Cat

PDF download Download Article
  1. Across cultures, cats are often associated with mystery, luck, magic, and the supernatural, so cat tattoos often hold the same meanings. These designs are also sometimes associated with freedom, independence, and grace, and many people get them to symbolize their love for their pet cat. [19]
    • Design ideas: If you have or had a cat, consider getting their portrait to honor them. Minimalist outlines are also cute, as are tattoos of just their eyes.
    • Placement ideas: Larger portraits often look best on the bicep or thigh, while smaller cat tattoos often go on the forearm, wrist, or ankle.
    • Tattoo pro tip: If you’re thinking of getting a sleeve tattoo , Moreno recommends, “Get a small tattoo first and see if you can carry it.”
21

Dog

PDF download Download Article
  1. Humans and dogs often share a deep bond. Because dogs are man’s best friend, dog tattoos often represent loyalty, friendship, and unconditional love. Many people also get dog tattoos to memorialize their beloved pet. [20]
    • Design ideas: Get a portrait of your dog to memorialize them, or go for something more minimal, like the outline of their ears. Paw prints are another great option.
    • Placement ideas: Like with cats, larger portraits tend to look best on the bicep or thigh, while smaller designs can go on the forearm, ankle, or wrist.
    • Tattoo pro tip: To help prevent your tattoo from getting infected , Myles recommends, “Wash it a couple times a day the first few days, and just use a very mild soap and your hands. Don’t use a washcloth because washcloths tend to hold bacteria.”
    2. Advertisement
22

Eyes

PDF download Download Article
  1. In many cultures, eyes are symbols of protection from negative energy. They’re also associated with intuition, spiritual enlightenment, and wisdom. Tattoos of eyes can also symbolize vigilance, guidance, and self-expression. [21]
    • Design ideas: Opt for something traditional, like the evil eye, or choose something more modern, like a set of women’s eyes done in black and gray.
    • Placement ideas: Small designs like the evil eye can go almost anywhere, while a tattoo of a set of eyes often looks best on the outside of the forearm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When showering with a new tattoo, Moreno says to avoid “hot or long showers” as well as baths.
23

Unicorn

PDF download Download Article
  1. In myths and fantasy, unicorns are often symbols of innocence and purity. They’re also traditionally associated with femininity, as only virgin maidens can tame them. In addition to purity, unicorn tattoos can also symbolize protection, healing, or a connection to the divine. [22]
    • Design ideas: Embrace your girlhood by incorporating a lot of color, like pinks and purples, or choose a more realistic design in black and gray.
    • Placement ideas: Many unicorn tattoos are large, so they look good on the arm, leg, or back.
    • Tattoo pro tip: If your tattoo is infected, Myles explains, “There will be a lot of redness and irritation. If you’re worried, your best bet is to show the artist who did it and ask their advice. If it seems like something that’s very urgent, go to your doctor.”
    2. Advertisement
24

Angel

PDF download Download Article
  1. In many religions, angels are believed to offer divine protection, guidance, and comfort to humans. Angel tattoos often symbolize a person’s faith, as well as kindness, remembrance, and inner strength. These designs are often a tribute to loved ones who have passed on. [23]
    • Design ideas: Choose something trendy and aesthetic, like a cherub, or embrace more traditional angel designs to highlight your faith.
    • Placement ideas: Many people place angel tattoos on their arms or backs.
    • Tattoo pro tip: While you should always listen to your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions , Lubbock says, “If you already have a couple of tattoos, listen to your body because your body will tell you what’s going to work best for you. We all heal a little bit differently.”
25

Mandala

PDF download Download Article
  1. Mandalas (Sanskrit for “circles”) originated in India as an artistic representation of the universe. [24] These symbols signify the interconnectedness of life and the many paths one takes. Mandala tattoos serve as a reminder of personal growth, spiritual development, and inner peace.
    • Design ideas: To embrace all the intricate details, consider getting a large mandala tattoo with lots of different geometric shapes and patterns. These often look good in black and gray, but adding bright colors can create a striking appearance.
    • Placement ideas: Most mandalas are large and detailed, so get them on your back, chest, arm, or thigh so you have plenty of room to show them off.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Depending on the studio, you may be out in the open when getting a tattoo. “For example, if you’re getting an under-boob tattoo, then maybe you’re not going to feel very comfortable if you have to be almost naked in front of many people,” Fernández González explains. “So always think about which body position [you’ll be in] and try to use clothing that allows you to show this area without being naked.”
    2. Advertisement
26

Deer

PDF download Download Article
  1. In many cultures, deer are associated with spirituality, as well as femininity, grace, and devotion. Deer tattoos often symbolize gentleness and a connection to nature, though they can also represent strength, resilience, fertility, and the cycle of life. [25]
    • Design ideas: Choose a stag for a more powerful design, or go for a doe or fawn for something more gentle and feminine. Deer tattoos often look nice with flowers in the background.
    • Placement ideas: Get a large deer tattoo on your thigh, or place a smaller design on your forearm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: To help prevent your tattoo from fading, Lubbock explains, “The sun is your worst enemy. After your tattoo is fully healed, about three weeks to a month, start to apply sunscreen. Also, hydrate the tattoo daily with light lotion.”
27

Feather

PDF download Download Article
  1. In many cultures, feathers are sacred symbols connected to the spiritual world. Because of this, feather tattoos often symbolize spiritual guidance and enlightenment, as well as freedom, lightness, and the ability to overcome challenges. [26]
    • Design ideas: Many people choose small, delicate feather tattoos, but if you want something bold, try a big, bright design, like a peacock feather.
    • Placement ideas: Place a small feather tattoo on your wrist or behind your ear, or get a larger one on your arm or collarbone.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When getting tattooed, Lubbock says, “Try to avoid moving around a lot, and definitely don’t eat while you’re getting tattooed. It becomes a high risk of health contamination.”
    2. Advertisement
28

Anchor

PDF download Download Article
  1. Because anchors ground ships, they often symbolize support and stability. Anchor tattoos serve as a reminder to stay steady and centered, especially when faced with challenges. They also symbolize hope, security, and commitment. [27]
    • Design ideas: Include other nautical design elements, like waves, tentacles, or nautical stars for a traditional anchor tattoo design.
    • Placement ideas: Get a small anchor on your ankle or wrist, or place a larger design on your bicep.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When paying for your tattoo, Lubbock advises, “Tip your artists. Don’t tip the owner, but tip the artists. They work hard for their money.”
29

Moth

PDF download Download Article
  1. Moth tattoos are similar to butterfly tattoos in that they both represent change and new beginnings. Additionally, moth tattoos also sometimes symbolize intuition, the pursuit of light, and the duality of life and death. [28]
    • Design ideas: Choose a death's-head moth if you want something edgy, or pick a rosy maple moth or a luna moth for something more feminine and delicate.
    • Placement ideas: Moth tattoos look great on the sternum or upper stomach, as well as on your arms or above or below your knees.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When healing your tattoo, Lubbock stresses that you should listen to your artist, not your friends: “Don’t listen to what your friends say. More often than not, friends [think they’re] professional tattooers, that they know best for a tattoo, but don’t follow what they say.”
    2. Advertisement
30

Dragon

PDF download Download Article
  1. In many cultures, dragons are symbols of good luck and protection. Dragon tattoos also symbolize strength, resilience, power, and ambition. Many people get them as a reminder of overcoming adversity. [29]
    • Design ideas: Decide if you want an Eastern or Western-inspired dragon, as they have different features. For a feminine design, surround your dragon with pink cherry blossoms.
    • Placement ideas: Large dragon tattoos look great on the back, chest, or leg, while smaller ones look nice on the arm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: If you decide you want to cover up a tattoo, Lubbock recommends, “First, find an artist you fall in love with, then make sure they have experience doing cover-up work. It’s always best to meet with the artist first.”
31

Scorpion

PDF download Download Article
  1. Scorpions often represent strength, resilience, and transformation. They’re also associated with passion and intensity, so scorpion tattoos may also represent strong emotions and a fighting spirit. [30]
    • Design ideas: Pair your scorpion with stars (especially if you’re a Scorpio), or flowers for a more feminine design. Scorpion lollipops are also popular designs.
    • Placement ideas: If you want something really small, a minimalist scorpion can be a great finger tattoo. Otherwise, place your tattoo on your arm, thigh, or ribcage.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Myles says, “The secret to dealing with the pain is to relax as much as you can. The more tense you are, the more it hurts.”
    2. Advertisement
32

Elephant

PDF download Download Article
  1. Elephants hold many positive associations, including strength, intelligence, loyalty, and protection. Elephant tattoos also sometimes symbolize patience, endurance, family values, and good luck. [31]
    • Design ideas: Get a small, fine-line elephant outline, or go for a larger, black and gray piece for something more realistic. Consider including flowers or geometric patterns as a background.
    • Placement ideas: Tiny elephant tattoos look great on the wrist or ankle, while larger designs work well on the bicep.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Before going to your appointment, Myles explains, “The most important thing before you go in and get a tattoo is to get a good night’s sleep and to have something to eat. You want to be in as good a shape as you can be. You don’t want to go in all hungover and tired from the night before.”
33

Arrow

PDF download Download Article
  1. Because arrows point the way, they often represent guidance, purpose, and a sense of where one is headed in life. Arrow tattoos are also associated with overcoming obstacles, independence, self-defense, and focus. [32]
    • Design ideas: Incorporate other design elements along the length of the arrow, like flowers, geometric shapes, or even words. A compass is another great option.
    • Placement ideas: Because they’re long and straight, arrows often look best on the forearm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Myles explains that you shouldn’t let pain dictate where you get your tattoo: “You don’t want to make the decision based on how much it hurts because it’s not going to make much of a difference from one place to another, especially for small tattoos. The pain will go away, but you’re still going to be stuck with the placement.”
    2. Advertisement
34

Infinity symbol

PDF download Download Article
  1. While they aren’t as trendy as they used to be, infinity symbols are still popular tattoo designs because they represent eternity, limitless possibilities, and endless love. Some cultures also believe the symbol represents rebirth or reincarnation. [33]
    • Design ideas: Go for a simple infinity symbol, or make the design more complex by forming the shape out of feathers, flowers, or hearts.
    • Placement ideas: Infinity symbols work well on the finger, wrist, or forearm.
    • Tattoo pro tip: When it comes to ointment, Myles recommends “Vitamin A&D ointment or Aquaphor. You don’t want to use anything that’s too greasy like vitamin E, aloe, or Vaseline.”
35

Dragonfly

PDF download Download Article
  1. Dragonflies are associated with adaptability, agility, and a desire for change. Dragonfly tattoos often represent an individual’s ability to navigate life’s challenges with grace and flexibility. They symbolize transformation and self-realization. [34]
    • Design ideas: Choose a watercolor dragonfly for a vibrant option, or keep things delicate with a fine-line design.
    • Placement ideas: Get a dragonfly tattoo on your arm, ribcage, wrist, or thigh.
    • Tattoo pro tip: Myles says, “Be careful of clothes rubbing on your tattoo. [For example], how often do you actually wash your jackets? If you have a dirty jacket sleeve, rubbing on your tattoo, that can make the healing process take longer.”
    2. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Remember, your tattoo is personal to you, so feel free to make up your own meaning! It doesn’t have to represent any of the meanings listed here.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • If the pain is too much or you start to feel lightheaded during your session, let your tattoo artist know you need a break.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Don’t worry about whether your tattoo is considered “feminine” or “masculine.” Get a design you truly love.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      The Significance & Importance of Semicolon Tattoos
      A Guide to Triangle Tattoos and Their Meaning
      Everything You Need to Know About Barbed Wire Tattoos
      What Does a Sun and Moon Tattoo Mean?
      What Does a Lotus Flower Tattoo Mean?
      What Does a Medusa Tattoo Mean?
      Everything You Need to Know About Crow Tattoos and Their Meaning
      What Do Teardrop Tattoos Mean?
      What Are Cyber Sigilism Tattoos? Plus, Design Ideas for Inspo
      What Does a Dragon Tattoo Mean? The Complete Cultural Guide
      What's the Meaning Behind an 8 Ball Tattoo?
      A Beginner's Guide to Anchor Tattoos: Symbolism & Designs
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://burnedhearts.com/blog/what-does-a-butterfly-tattoo-mean-exploring-the-symbolism-and-significance
      2. ↑ https://chronicinktattoo.com/blogs/latest/rose-tattoo
      3. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/pop-culture/medusa-tattoo/
      4. ↑ https://projectsemicolon.com/why-the-semicolon-tattoo-resonates-with-millions-all-over-the-world/
      5. ↑ https://www.inkaholik.com/so-you-want-a-portrait-tattoo-heres-what-you-need-to-know/
      6. ↑ https://chronicinktattoo.com/blogs/latest/heart-tattoo
      7. ↑ https://www.theblackhattattoo.com/galleries/bird-tattoo
      8. ↑ https://www.theblackhattattoo.com/galleries/lion-tattoo
      9. ↑ https://skindesigntattoos.com/skull-tattoo-vegas/
      1. ↑ https://parade.com/living/snake-tattoo-meaning
      2. ↑ https://inknationstudio.com/meaning-and-symbolism-behind-lotus-tattoos/
      3. ↑ https://www.sidelineinkbali.com/blog/wing-tattoo-meaning.html
      4. ↑ https://certifiedtattoo.com/blog/3-cross-tattoo-designs-and-meanings-a-symbolic-guide
      5. ↑ https://vean-tattoo.ca/tattoo-sketches/dream-catcher
      6. ↑ https://inknationstudio.com/wolves-in-skin-choosing-the-perfect-wolf-tattoo-for-your-story/
      7. ↑ https://inknationstudio.com/the-bright-symbolism-of-sunflower-tattoos/
      8. ↑ https://parade.com/living/moon-tattoos#what-does-a-moon-symbolize
      9. ↑ https://inkppl.com/en/magazine/knowledge/sun-tattoos-symbolism-and-styles
      10. ↑ https://www.studioaureo.com/en/blog/a-purr-fect-2025-guide-to-cat-tattoos-meanings-designs-and-styles
      11. ↑ https://www.studioaureo.com/en/blog/loyalty-in-ink-celebrating-your-bond-with-dog-tattoos
      12. ↑ https://inknationstudio.com/the-all-seeing-ink-eye-tattoos-and-their-multifaceted-meanings/
      13. ↑ https://vanishingtattoo.com/tattoos_designs_symbols_unicorn.htm
      14. ↑ https://chronicinktattoo.com/blogs/latest/angel-tattoos-and-their-meanings
      15. ↑ https://www.britannica.com/topic/mandala-diagram
      16. ↑ https://www.theblackhattattoo.com/galleries/deer-tattoo
      17. ↑ https://blackpoisontattoos.com/portfolio_category/feathers-tattoos/
      18. ↑ https://chronicinktattoo.com/blogs/latest/anchor-tattoo-meaning-ideas
      19. ↑ https://certifiedtattoo.com/blog/geometric-moth-tattoos-a-trending-style-with-a-dark-inspiration
      20. ↑ https://thirteenfeettattoo.com/blog/dragon-tattoos
      21. ↑ https://www.holisticink.com/scorpion-tattoo-design/
      22. ↑ https://www.holisticink.com/elephant-tattoo/
      23. ↑ https://chronicinktattoo.com/blogs/latest/arrow-tattoo-meaning
      24. ↑ https://collegian.com/blogs/2016/03/understanding-the-trend-infinity-tattoos/
      25. ↑ https://www.holisticink.com/dragonfly-tattoo/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 168 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement