Tattooing, an ancient form of self-expression, continues to evolve, reflecting cultural shifts, technological advancements and personal narratives. With 2024 now in full swing, the tattoo industry is set to unveil an array of mesmerising trends. From an increase in minimalism to a resurgence of traditional motifs, let’s explore our predictions for tattoo trends this year.
Popular Tattoo Styles for 2024
Minimalism
Minimalist tattoos are understated yet impactful, as they often convey deep meanings with simple, elegant designs. The minimalist style has always been popular, and due to its aesthetic appeal and ease of getting a minimalist tattoo, we believe it’ll continue to be one of the most popular styles in 2024.
Blackwork
Characterised by intentional black space and thick outlines, we believe blackwork tattoos are set to make an even bigger comeback in 2024. Blackwork is an ancient form of tattoo and has been around for thousands of years, specifically in the Polynesian and Maori cultures. Blackwork tattoos couldn’t be any more different than the minimalist style above. From detailed tribal patterns to modern geometric designs, there are so many unique tattoos you can create with the blackwork style.
Watercolour
As well as minimalist and blackwork tattoos, we predict a resurgence of watercolour tattoos in 2024. As the name suggests, watercolour tattoos mimic the understated aesthetics of watercolour paintings. Using this style, artists can create a beautiful blend of colours and shapes on the skin. This tattoo style is perfect for those who love watercolour art and want to reflect that love on their skin.
Traditional (Old School)
Traditional tattoos, also known as old-school tattoos, are set to make a comeback in 2024 as well. This tattoo style is probably the first thing that comes to your parents or grandparents’ minds when you say you’re getting a tattoo. As one of the most common styles of Western tattoos, the common motifs among traditional tattoos include the ocean and nautical imagery, pinup girls, fierce animals, and hearts and roses. These tattoos are characterised by bold lines, bright colours and heavy shading.
With the resurgence of this style comes a few additions. Not only can you get a traditional tattoo, but now you can get a traditional tattoo with more modern elements. For example, this style is perfect for those who love traditional motifs but want to add a unique twist to the design.
Upcoming Tattoo Design Trends
Micro-realistic tattoos
Traditionally, realistic tattoos are done in bigger sizes. However, micro-realism is gaining traction and becoming more popular with the new generation of tattoo enthusiasts. So many people are starting to love micro-realist tattoos because they don’t take up too much space on the skin and are a lot easier to hide if need be.
Minimal fine-line tattoos
Celebrities have heavily influenced small, fine-line tattoos placed in patch-style around the body. Celebrities such as Zoë Kravitz, Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber have one thing in common: they have multiple minimal fine-line tattoos around their bodies.
Fine-line tattoos are already popular, as they’re subtle and not very painful to get. However, we predict an increase in the number of people getting minimal fine-line tattoos due to their dainty nature and endless design options.
Geometric tattoo sleeves
Pleasing to the eye with their symmetrical design, geometric tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. From small, single-shaped designs to larger, more detailed pieces, the list of geometric tattoo designs is endless, and even more so when it comes to sleeves.
The main motifs associated with geometric tattoos include animals, symbols, shapes and mathematics. However, while single geometric tattoos are popular, we predict that geometric tattoo sleeves that showcase a range of motifs to create an optical illusion will take off in 2024. Whether it’s an arm or leg sleeve tattoo, there are so many designs to choose from to create your perfect geometric tattoo.
Upcoming Cosmetic Tattoo Trends
Microblading innovations
When it comes to microblading techniques, we expect to see numerous advancements, such as finer strokes and more natural-looking results. We predict that innovations in tools and pigments will lead to even more realistic cosmetic eyebrow enhancements.
Subtle lip blushing
We anticipate a surge in requests for lip blushing, a technique that adds natural-looking colour and definition to the lips, in 2024. This cosmetic tattooing technique focuses on softer, more subtle lip shades to create a refreshed but natural appearance.
Intricate eyeliner designs
From delicate winged liners to intricate lash enhancements, we predict there will be a rise in demand for intricate eyeliner designs. We anticipate these designs will include techniques that enhance and define the eyes while maintaining a natural look.
Freestyle freckles
While cosmetic freckles are already popular, we expect to see an increase in those embracing natural beauty and adding faux freckles to their face. With that increase in demand, we may see more artists experimenting with organic placement and variation in freckle sizes for a unique, sun-kissed look.
Get Your Next Tattoo at Celebrity Ink
Whether you’re looking at getting your very first tattoo or adding to your collection, why not start the new year with some new ink? With so many tattoo styles to choose from, we can expect to see an increase specifically in minimalist, traditional, blackwork and watercolour tattoos this year.
If you’d like to learn more about these styles or how we can bring your vision to life through one of these tattoo styles, contact your nearest Celebrity Ink studio today.
