While it used to be taboo to get a tattoo, these days a very large percentage of the population has some form of body art. Despite the fact that there are virtually millions of tattoo designs available, from pre-set designs to designs that the owner has illustrated themselves, there are still several designs that continue to remain popular.

1) Tribal/Maori tattoos: Tribal tattoo designs can be a variety of designs, from long-established indigenous designs that date back hundreds of years to newer, more contemporary graphic designs. Maori patterns originate from Polynesia and are especially geometric in form. For the most part Maori designs are based on a central spiral shape.

2) Spiritual symbols: Religious symbols are still one of the most popular tattoo designs. Crowns, crosses, and angels are all forms of religious images that are used to signify one’s devotion to their faith. They might also be used in a memorial tattoo, paying tribute to a lost loved one. Angels can represent protection and guidance, too.

3) Stars: The meaning behind the star more often than not has something to do with the number of points it contains. Pentagrams, the Star of David, and the Nautical Star are all potential star designs. The star can possibly represent forces of nature, as well as the light that can be found within darkness.

4) Butterflies: Butterflies are another design that is traditionally used by women. While butterflies were used to symbolize the soul in Greek mythology, they are mostly chosen today for their beauty and femininity.

5) Dragons: Dragon designs originate from the Far East. In that area of the world, dragons stand for the four elements, Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water. The dragon is neither good nor evil and represents the power of the earth.

6) Words: Words are still probably the most popular overall tattoo design. From the one word memorial (”Mom”) to the complicated phrases (think song lyrics) words are still used the world over. Words in other languages (like Chinese) are becoming more and more popular as well.

7) Flora: Flowers are indisputably one of the most favored tattoo designs, particularly for the female population. Depending on the look that you are going for, there are a lot of various flower designs available. Some popular flowers are daisies, roses, lilies, and violets. Flowers can also be used in concurrence with other designs as well, especially when it comes to religious symbols.
Birds: Like flowers, there are many different types of bird tattoos. Eagles can symbolize strength and courage. The phoenix can represent overcoming obstacles. Even hummingbirds have their place in the tattoo world. Wings themselves can be spiritual, as well as stand for speed and freedom.

9) Fantasy: Unicorns, faeries, and mermaids are still popular themes. They can be worn either to signify a simple love of the make-believe realm, or they can be a cultural expression for those people that practice alternative religions.

10) Hearts: Hearts still remain as one of the most popular designs. They can be used with names in order to show off your feelings for a loved one, or they can stand alone on their own.

Regardless of the fact that designs go in and out of fashion, some subjects never change in popularity. When most people get tattoos, they try to find something that showcases their individuality and says something about their personality. Then again, this isn’t always the case because sometimes you just want something that looks cool.

Tags: Tattoos