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For a growing number of people—no matter their age—tattoos are a sign of self-expression. As access to the work of tattoo artists grows via social media and celebrity ink (think Hailey Bieber's myriad dainty pieces), we got curious about what is driving the trends for 2024. Is it solely social media? Is it all about what celebrities are rocking? According to tattoo artist Sydney Smith, there isn't just one thing: "Tattoo trends are often influenced by a combination of factors," she explains. Indeed, there are four key pillars: cultural movements, social media, celebrities, and the vision of the artist and client.
Ahead, explore eight of the most sought-after tattoo trends for 2024, according to Smith and fellow tattoo artists Cassie May and Koral Ladna.
Meet the Expert
- Cassie May is a Toronto-based tattoo artist and owner of The Cassie May Studio, whose style focuses on microrealism and linework.
- Sydney Smith is an Arizona-based tattoo artist, owner of SYZYGY Precision Tattooing, and Mad Rabbit pro tattoo artist whose style focuses on intricate detail, fine lines, and florals.
- Koral Ladna is a tattoo artist, co-owner of Fortune & Love Tattoo, and Mad Rabbit pro tattoo artist whose work reflects her time traveling and studying traditional folk art worldwide.
Cybersigilism Tattoos
AI might be polarizing, but May tells us the technology is already informing tattoo artwork. "Cybersigilism is growing rapidly," she says. "[These pieces are] essentially a mix of tech and tribal, which suits our AI technology age perfectly."
Finger Tattoos
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@sydsmithhh / Instagram
Finger tattoos are among my favorites (I have two). They're dainty and subtle and can mark the love of something significant in your life. Smith tells us finger tattoos are increasingly popular among Gen Z, so the trend is not slowing down anytime soon.
Floral Tattoos
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@girlknewyork / Instagram
Smith notes floral tattoos are here to stay. Why? "Floral tattoos have a timeless beauty to them, and they can be done in [various] styles," she says, helping them stay relevant in 2024 and beyond.
Lower Back Tattoos
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@sydsmithhh / Instagram
Lower back tattoos are making a comeback. However, Smith tells us these aren't your '90s and aughts lower back tattoos. "They're everywhere now, but with a fresh take," she says. "They're a small word or phrase, or the design is more simplistic."
Animal Tattoos
Our pets are a large part of our lives, and our love for them is unmatched. For this reason, Ladna says animal tattoos are growing in popularity. "More and more animal tattoos that represent either a pet, a loved one, or a concept of self" are trending, she shares. "These are found in [many] styles from realism to modernism to fine line."
Minimalist Modernist Color Block Tattoos
"Tattoo technology has evolved so much that now tattoos that were not possible ten years ago are," Ladna shares. Minimalist color-block tattoos are representative of the growth of said technology. "So many artists are pushing what it means to tattoo in 2024," she says. "Clients are drawn to unique and non-traditional."
Freehand Abstract Styles
Given the sea of inspo images you can find on social media, finding a totally unique tattoo can feel impossible. But if you find an artist well-versed in freehand abstract styles, May says you'll have the opportunity to create a tattoo that is "entirely original, at the moment, [that] can rarely be copied."
Script and Calligraphy
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@sydsmithhh / Instagram
For a personal touch, Smith says script and calligraphy will remain popular. With this type of tattoo, you can add a piece to your fingers, inner arms, lower back, neck, and beyond. The possibilities are endless.
The Final Takeaway
We know that trends come and go, and when it comes to permanent artwork, you want to ensure you're making a choice you'll love far beyond the trend. Before you settle on a tattoo this year, May has lasting advice: "Really ask yourself why you're getting the tattoo. I always tell my clients to take their time with an idea," she says. "If something seems too impulsive, I will occasionally deny a piece because I want my clients to be happy with their decision long term. These aren't items of clothing that can be easily removed; you should sit with an idea for a few weeks at least."
