25+ Simple Tattoo Ideas Offering Creative Ways to Say More with Less

 

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Tattoos have transitioned from being a taboo form of art to something that people of all ages wear on their bodies. As the visual styles grow beyond the traditional sailor tattoos, they now encompass elements of fine art with designs influenced by watercolor painting and abstract imagery. There is a seemingly endless pool of tattoo inspiration available! But what if you want body art that’s on the simpler side? Simple tattoo ideas don’t have to mean boring ones. Artists from around the world demonstrate how even the most minimal shapes and lines can be eye-catching.

If you’re not ready for a full sleeve design or large cross-body work, consider getting something small (like one on your finger). This will ensure that the tattoo uses fewer lines and is simple in its execution. To make sure it still has visual impact, focus on how a tattoo like this can say a lot with a little. It can be cleverly placed on your body—perhaps on your arm or down your back. Alternatively, simple but cool tattoos can utilize a combination of line and color to create compelling illustrations that are vibrant and bold without feeling overworked.

Scroll down for a variety of simple tattoo ideas that will help inspire your next bit of body art.

Looking for simple tattoo ideas? Check out some of our favorite designs that show how you can say more with less.

 

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Next: More Simple Tattoo Ideas

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Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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