101 best tattoo ideas for your next ink, from big and bold to small and delicate
So, you’ve decided that you want to get inked. And now you need to filter through the countless tattoo ideas to find a design you love enough to make permanent. Whether it's your first time or fifteenth, deciding on a tattoo design can be a lengthy process.
The permanency alone is a daunting prospect (top tip: a tattoo is a bad medium for declarations of love), and then there's the difficulty of choosing something that will remain timeless and immune to ever-evolving trends. Oh, and throw in the fact that you need to decide on tattoo placement and it’s no wonder the process can be a lengthy one.
Here to help, we've rounded up the best tattoo ideas for women – from dainty designs and uplifting quotes, to bold illustrations and graphic symbols. Sometimes, even a single dot will do (anyone remember Phoebe's tattoo of the Earth "from a great, great distance", in Friends?)
What are the best tattoo styles?
The answer to this is, of course, subjective. There are myriad tattoo styles out there and what one person likes, another may dislike. But generally speaking, there are a few styles that continue to be popular. Cursive styles, for instance, always look cool – choose a word, phrase or single initial and find a size/font you like.
Flower tattoos are also in-demand and have various meanings, depending on the bloom you pick. For instance, rose tattoos represent love and passion. Other tattoo styles include line art tattoos (where it looks as though the design is drawn in one continuous line) and watercolour tattoo ideas.
Whichever tattoo style you go for, make sure to do your research first to find a reputable parlour and tattoo artist with experience in this style. Plus, find out everything you need to know about tattoo aftercare.
How do I find a meaningful tattoo?
When searching for tattoo ideas, it’s important to find a design that’s true to you. Consider what makes you happy – the lyrics in your favourite song, or maybe a symbol that reminds you of a loved one - person or pet. If you’re not sure where to start, look for visual inspo (Pinterest and Instagram are great for this) and consult a tattoo artist who can help dream up a few ideas based on what you tell them.
If you're looking for some inspiration for your next tattoo, keep scrolling to see our round up of the best tattoo ideas with different placement ideas from lip tattoos to collarbone tattoos…
Cherub tattoo
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While the subject could seem quite old-fashioned, this design is the complete opposite and Lydia Amor's back of the ankle hand poked cherubs are 100% angelic and 100% stylish.
Scenic tattoo
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You can't fail to be wowed by John Washington's bright and beautiful mountaineer scenescape. In a bold, old school design, if you're looking for the wow factor, this has plenty.
Single line portrait
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More subtle than a sketched out version of a face, this outline of a silhouette is original and delicate.
Constellation tattoo
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A stellar piece of work, whether it's your star sign constellation or someone else who means the world to you, this is as chic as it gets.
Multicoloured artwork
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So incredibly striking, this brightly coloured tattoo really pops. Playful and cartoonish, it's Kiran's speciality.
Monochrome rabbit tattoo
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Even if you're not an animal lover you can't fail to be wooed by this cute cartoonish rabbit tattoo by genius tattooist Mike Love.
Miniature ear tattoos
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If you fancy decorating your ears but want artwork instead of jewellery, these mini multicoloured drawings and doodles could be the inspiration you've been looking for.
Matching stickman tattoos
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Hand poked, fine line tattoos should be a go to for creating cute designs like these matching stickmen. Safer than a 'name' tattoo for your loved one, it's original and endearing.
Dinky dice tattoo
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If you've got a date or age or number that has great relevance to you, this is a clever design to showcase it as you can use the numbers on the dice to represent it on your behalf.
Fiery dragon back tattoo
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Intricate and eye catching, this design isn't for the fainthearted but it's a modern way to display a Chinese dragon. The red and pink ink together is a match made in heaven.
Dates tattoo
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From birth dates to anniversaries to memorable moments, Adam Claridge has created a beautiful and simplistic way to display those special digits.
Musical note tattoo
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This treble clef finger tattoo positioned neatly on the thumb is a must for musicians.
@tattooideas_igSister circle tattoo
We love this sibling tattoo idea, which circles whether you're the eldest, middle, or baby of your fam.
@hybridink.helsinkiFamily cursive tattoo
This sweet inscription is simple but meaningful.
@FEATHERANDMINK / INSTAGRAMCosmic tattoo
This dinky cosmic cluster looks adorable nestled on the inside of wrists, or the crook of elbows.
- @nemo.tattoo / Instagram
Wrist tattoo idea
We love this subtle statement tattoo that's trending on the gram RN.
@mayo.tttSmiley toe tattoo
Along with being fun and cheery, this is a good shout if you want to be able to keep your design hidden on certain occasions.
@hanamaeataya / InstagramUnder boob tattoo
Female form art has seen a huge surge in popularity lately, inspiring everything from graphic prints to naked body vases and interiors. Why not enjoy the trend forever with these delicate line drawings celebrating women's bodies?
@takemymuse / InstagramPortrait tattoo
This pretty portrait incorporating the Jacaranda flower and Korean Hangul script is beautiful.
@tattoosca / InstagramTiger tattoo
A fierce design placed just below the shoulder blade.
@broccoli_tattooer / InstagramSunflower tattoo
A delicate way to incorporate colour into your inking.
@zaya / InstagramFloral ankle tattoo
This sun flower is a total mood booster.
@sukilune / InstagramCute shell tattoo
For those who like to be beside the seaside.
Instagram / @tatbaddiesExtraterrestrial tattoo
Love all things extraterrestrial? This cute little finger tat is for you.
@iam_tatt_lyfe / InstagramNeck tattoo
Loud and proud lips.
@zaya / InstagramInner arm tattoo
Bare boobs on bare skin. Beaut.
@takemymuse / InstagramSunset tattoo
This beautiful snapshot of a sunset is shaded perfectly.
@broccoli_tattooer / InstagramNostalgic tattoo idea
A childhood tribute right there.
@zaya / InstagramVine hand tattoo
This pretty vine design wraps around the whole hand.
@takemymuse / InstagramMultiple tattoo ideas
Make your body the canvas and paint it with all of your favourite things.
@fauna_tattoos / InstagramEvil eye tattoo
The simple but effective evil eye should always be inked on the back of a limb, so the gaze meets those talking sh*t behind your back.
@d_tattooer / InstagramLadybird tattoo
Hello there, little ladybug! Symbolising good fortune and prosperity, an inking of the tiny red beetle will bring you luck as well as looking lovely.
- @nemo.tattoo / Instagram
Colourful ankle tattoo
The perfect accessory to your ankle-grazing jeans. Remember, not all tattoos need to have 'meaning'. Sometimes it's just fun to inject a little colour into your life.
@tiny.tunes / InstagramLeafy tattoo
Wear your love for Autumn as a badge of honour on your thigh with this delicate leaf tattoo.
@supersmalltattos / InstagramRainbow tattoo
Why not make it Pride everyday of year? This colourful rainbow tat is as cute as it is meaningful.
Instagram/ @zihee_tattooTribute tattoo
A little inspiration for those that want to show their support for iconic strong women through ink. We love how this colourful design is as powerful as it is jaw-dropping gorgeous.
Getty ImagesSmall flower tattoo
If defining your collarbone with bronzer doesn't work, this dainty flower design will definitely draw the eye...
@mr.k_tats/ InstagramMountain tattoo
Minimalist tattoos might be taking the spotlight, but we're really loving landscape inspired ink - perfect for the wanderluster.
Pink promise tattoo
How adorable are these pinky promises? Such a unique idea for a tattoo.
@mr.k_tats/ InstagramAnimal tattoo
What a gorgeous way to keep a memory alive! He looks like a very good boy.
Boxed flower tattoo
Can't decide on a line drawing and something floral? Do both!
@wittybutton_tattoo/ InstagramZodiac sign tattoo
For the zodiac sign obsessive, this is probably the most perfect (tiny) tattoo.
Short quote tattoo
Short and sharp quotes like this one work well.
Quote tattoo
And we like things like this, too.
Sternum tattoo idea
If you're opting for a small design, why not build up your collection so you have several?
@bangbangnyc / InstagramSpring tattoo idea
Super delicate spring inkspiration.
@kevinking.nyc / InstagramWhite tattoo idea
White ink is winning over our hearts.
@small_tattoos / InstagramFinger heart tattoo
This cute little pink heart design is perfect as a symbol of friendship.
Instagram / @cagridurmazLandmark tattoo idea
If there's a place in the world that captures your heart, prove it with ink.
mongotattoo/ InstagramElephant tattoo idea
These elephants are so cute just below the collar bone.
small_tattoos__/ InstagramSide boob shell tattoo
This shell reminds us of holidays.
rekabittencourt/ InstagramDelicate heart tattoo
We love this delicate heart on the wrist.
@tattoologistofficial InstagramUpper arm floral tattoo
This pretty floral design looks gorgeous on the inner arm.
@tattoologistofficial InstagramLavender ankle tattoo
Love lavender? This one's for you...
@tattoologistofficial InstagramHalf sleeve tattoo idea
If you're wild at heart, a bird design may be up your street.
Morethannow InstagramSingle word tattoo idea
A single word imprinted on your wrist can look stunning.
@tattoologistofficial InstagramDisney tattoo
How cute is this line drawing picture?
Laura2855 InstagramFingerprint tattoo
How adorable is this heart made of finger prints?
First tattoo idea
Awh! Show your pet some love with a dedicated inking.
Skeleton tattoo
We love a skull design here at GLAMOUR HQ.
AnntiPatia InstagramPaw print tattoo
Our cats really do leave paw prints on our hearts...!
Fruity tattoo
A cute mini fruit is a fun choice.
Playground_tat2 InstagramHeart of roses tattoo
We love a good heart design, especially when it's made from roses.
Tattooist_flowerIntricate butterfly tattoo
Butterflies are girly and sweet, especially in pink.
Little.tattoos InstagramAvocado tattoo
Love avocados, like, a lot? There's a tattoo for that...
_cutegirlytattoos InstagramAnchor tattoo
An anchor is a classic choice.
justsmalltattoos InstagramFinger tattoo ideas
These designs are simple yet sweet.
justsmalltattoos InstagramTravel tattoo
A palm tree print is a great way to show your love for travel and warm climates.
justsmalltattoos InstagramTattoo hand heart
This heart print has an edge, and the positioning on the hand is very unique.
_cutegirlytattoos InstagramColourful finger tattoo
Don't want to quite commit? Try a different coloured ink.
_cutegirlytattoos InstagramShoulder bird tattoo
This bird has character and looks lovely with the slogan necklace.
Quotetattoos InstagramLittle finger tattoo
Little finger tattoos are a great way to get inked if you want to keep it simple.
Cutegirlytattoos InstagramLove and infinity tattoo
This love heart meets infinity symbol is creative.
_cutegirlytattoos InstagramBlack bird tattoo
How understated yet chic is this bird tattoo? We love the positioning of this, too.
Myskavanek InstagramMusical tattoo idea
If music is a big part of your existence, a design like this will resonate with you.
MarinaLanda InstagramWave tattoo
Release your inner mermaid with a cute wave design on your foot.
Tattoo Inkspiration instagramWave tattoo
If you love a certain city or place in the world, show your dedication by getting a tattoo of its skyline.
Tattooinkspiration InstagramAffirmation leg tattoo
Tattoo your daily affirmation to your thigh.
Tattoogoalsaf InstagramMoon tattoo idea
A half-moon line drawing is so incredibly chic.
WeaverByNight InstagramLeg tattoo idea
And never feel you have to stick to one, either!
Bethanwi InstagramHarry Potter tattoo
If you have a favourite book, choose a tattoo which represents something from that. This Harry Potter design is only for insiders...
Little.tattoos InstagramNeck quote tattoo
A quote on the back of the neck looks so subtle and pretty. This 'Made of stardust' design is charming.
Pina_tattoo InstagramLarge flower tattoo
A slightly larger design, this gorgeous floral tat is edgy yet feminine.
Tattoo Banoo InstagramLove letter tattoo
Signed, sealed, delivered, this tattoo could be yours...
Little.tattoos InstagramLine drawing tattoo
This line drawing of a cat is fun, quirky and cool.
Tattooinkspiration InstagramBold lion tattoo
If you're a Leo, this bold lion is perfect for you.
Little.tattoos instagramSingle wave tattoo
Love the sea? This simple wave is a great subtle choice.
Bloody Ink Tattoo InstagramArrow tattoo
Arrows represent being pulled back in life but being able to spring forward despite difficulties.
_Mr.OC InstagramNeck tattoo idea
This one is original and unique.
AnastasiaVYAltSeva InstagramColourful flower tattoo
If you feel like committing to a slightly bigger tattoo, this flowery design is a total dream.
Ftrujilken InstagramAnklet tattoo
A design like this one means you never have to take your anklet off.
Dovmesehri InstagramHot air balloon tattoo
Up, up and away!
Sammipixieneves InstagramHand written tattoo
Personalise your tat by using a loved-one's handwriting.
Annalisafemiano InstagramBalloon tattoo
Wish it could be your birthday everyday? With this balloon design, it (kinda) can.
LallabarbbierbiDetailed pet tattoo
Show your ultimate dedication to your pet with an intricate animal design.
Nabi.tattoo InstagramMini triangle tattoo
Little shapes make for perfect first tattoos.
XIAOZHV102Pattern tattoo
Behind your ear is a great place to get a tattoo, as you can keep it hidden when you need to.
Ninaborgenstal InstagramArm quote tattoo
This section on your arm is perfect for a cute picture or short quote.
ziggydenim InstagramWild heart tattoo
We are obsessing over this fun design, and its secret placing.
Doan_TT InstagramYolo tattoo
Remind yourself that life is precious, and sometimes short, with this design.
EdenViolet InstagramFlower ankle tattoo
You don't need an entire bunch of flowers to make a statement.
Maarthehb InstagramThree tattoo ideas
Three are better than one! Just follow this Instagram user's lead.
Tattoogoalsaf InstagramShare the love tattoo
This look is creative and cool.
Tattoogoalsaf InstagramSeahorse tattoo
How detailed and intricate is this amazing seahorse design?!
Tattooinkspiration InstagramCompass tattoo
This tattoo will ensure your life has purpose and direction.
Tattooinkspiration InstagramPet portrait tattoo
Cutest.tattoo.EVER?!
MagicFetish InstagramHeart outline tattoo
A line drawing of a heart is a highly popular design.
tattooist_noa InstagramMini ear tattoo
Look closely and you'll see pretty much the sweetest tattoo you've ever seen...!
Lindsnag InstagramDisney tattoo
Disney fan? Share the love...
Baam.kr InstagramFingers crossed tattoo
Keep your fingers constantly crossed.
Little.tattoos InstagramDelicate font tattoo
If you're going for a word or phrase, pick a very delicate font to make it ultra pretty.
