We’re a long way away from looking at inked people like they’ve come from another planet. In fact, tattoos have become so mainstream that it’s hard to find a person who doesn’t have a single tattoo. Social media is rife with beautiful designs, techniques and talented tattoo artists sharing their work with the world.
tasteful shoulder tattoos
-
Colorful flowers
Floral tattoos are well-suited for shoulder placement. This larger design perfectly frames the shoulder as it gently climbs up the neck and down the arm.
Image: @yelizozcan_tattooer
-
Minimalist tattoos
Minimalist tattoos are having a moment and tend to be the choice of many for their first-ever tattoo. This simple lock tattoo is paired with a key tattoo on the back of the other shoulder. Balance is key, right?
Image: @wittybutton_tattoo
-
Black roses
A simple outline of roses and their leaves extends from the shoulder onto the collarbone, proving that placement can make or break a tattoo.
Image: @rachellchengg
-
Back of the shoulder
The back of the shoulder is also a great spot, as evidenced by this origami tattoo.
Image: @ninaautering
-
Memorial tattoos
People tend to get tattoos of dates, symbols and names related to people, places or events that mean something to them. This back-of-the-shoulder tattoo features a daffodil, a date and a name, all tastefully put together.
Image: @blondiekeogh
-
Lotus flower
Pink lotus petals hug the shoulder and almost look like they're painted on the skin.
Image: Instagram
-
Saturn lollipop
This unique shoulder tattoo merges Saturn with a lollipop. Any guess on its meaning?
Image: @caistattoo
-
Wave tattoo
For that wave-riding, beach-loving girl, this artistic shoulder tattoo of ocean waves is an interesting piece if you're looking for a combo of modern and classic imagery.
Image: @vedinxtattoo
-
Quote tattoos
The shoulder is a great place for a short quote written in a small font. Every time the wearer looks in the mirror, it can be a reminder to just let life happen.
Image: @mnsantanatattoo
-
A powerful message
The placement of this tattoo is everything. The effect of the gun shooting a bouquet over her shoulder is the perfect combination of sweet and tough.
Image: @woonatattoo
-
The Little Prince
Is there a book that made a huge impression on you and impacted your life in some way? A tattoo of a detail related to that book, be it the image or a quote from its pages, is the perfect homage.
Image: @sanjatattoo
-
A different kind of rose
For centuries, roses have been one of the most common tattoo choices and their appeal is obvious. However, you don't have to go with a traditional look. This conceptual interpretation focuses solely on the outline, giving it a very modern feel.
Image: @cagridurmaz
-
Botanical tattoos
This botanical shoulder tattoo has an almost 3D look that resembles a drawing more than a tattoo.
Image: @zihee_tattoo
-
Tiny flower
The shape of a single flower done in multiple colors sitting at the front of the shoulder has a feminine and decorative effect on the body. It's also easy to add more details around it later on if you feel the desire to make it more prominent.
Image: @soltattoo
-
A romantic approach
This rose shoulder tattoo has a hidden word etched into the stalk, giving it an elegant, romantic look.
Image: @jk.tat
-
Over the moon
This small shoulder tattoo is placement goals. The bright, ombre shading makes it truly special.
Image: @wittybutton_tattoo
-
Watercolor splash
For the artistic soul who likes unconventional designs, this watercolor tattoo is the perfect base for a special quote.
Image: @peztattoo
