Traditional style tattoos

Classic motifs of the traditional style

• Nautical: Anchors, ships, sailors, compasses — the original motifs of modern tattoos

• Fauna: Swallows, eagles, snakes, wolves, panthers

• Florals: Roses and daggers, one of the most iconic combos of the style

• Figures: Pin-ups, mermaids, skulls, hearts with ribbons and names

• Native American motifs: Headdresses, arrows, dreamcatchers

• Cherries, lightning, stars: Small classics that work well on their own or alongside larger pieces

What size makes sense?

Old school tattoos work in almost any size, although small and medium pieces are the most common. The arm is the most classic location, but they work equally well on legs, chest, or ribs.

One of the best things about this style is that it encourages you to keep going. You can start with a small piece and gradually add more, slowly building a visually coherent collection without having to plan everything from the beginning.

More options than you'd think

The traditional style offers more possibilities than many expect:

• Portraits adapted to the style: Your partner, a family member or someone special, interpreted with an old school aesthetic.

• Occupations and hobbies: There are traditional reasons for almost any profession or passion.

• Tattoos for couples or families: The same design or two complementary pieces — Here are more ideas for family tattoos.

• With names or phrases: Text-embellished ribbons are part of the style's DNA, not an add-on — they fit naturally

• Combined with pets: A cat or dog portrayed in a traditional style can look incredible — Check out our pet portraits