Exploring Tattoo Styles: Finding the Perfect Ink for You
At Inked Under Ground, we believe tattoos are more than just ink—they’re personal stories, worn proudly on skin. But if you’re new to the world of tattoos (or even if you’ve been collecting for years), you might not realize just how many different tattoo styles exist. From bold traditional designs to hyper-realistic portraits, each style carries its own history, techniques, and personality.
Not sure which one is right for you? Let’s explore some of the most popular tattoo styles and what makes each one unique.
1. American Traditional
Bold, timeless, and iconic.
American Traditional tattoos are the classics—thick black outlines, a limited but bold color palette (usually red, green, yellow, and black), and designs that stand the test of time. Think anchors, roses, skulls, and eagles. This style is all about strong symbolism and straightforward design.
If you want a tattoo that looks just as powerful in 30 years as it does today, American Traditional is a solid choice.
2. Neo-Traditional
Classic foundation with a modern twist.
Neo-Traditional builds on the same foundation as American Traditional but adds more depth, detail, and color variation. These tattoos often include bold outlines but allow for more shading, gradients, and intricate designs.
Neo-Traditional is perfect if you love the strength of Traditional tattoos but want a richer, more modern look.
3. Black and Grey
Shadows, depth, and subtle elegance.
Instead of relying on color, black and grey tattoos use shading to create depth, dimension, and texture. This style works beautifully for realistic designs like portraits, religious imagery, or nature-inspired art.
Black and grey is versatile—you can go soft and subtle or dark and dramatic depending on your vision.
4. Realism
Like a photograph, but permanent.
Realism tattoos are exactly what they sound like: tattoos that look so life-like, they could be mistaken for a photo. From portraits of loved ones to animals and landscapes, realism is all about detail, shading, and precision.
It’s a challenging style that requires a highly skilled artist (like our very own Ren, “The Human Camera”).
5. Color Tattoos
Vibrant, eye-catching, and full of life.
Color tattoos can be applied to almost any style—realism, traditional, surrealism, or even illustrative designs. They bring vibrancy and personality to your ink, and when done right, color tattoos can stay bold and beautiful for years.
If you’re someone who loves bright, vivid artwork, color tattoos might be your perfect match.
6. Blackwork
Bold contrast, striking simplicity.
Blackwork tattoos focus exclusively on black ink, often using large areas of solid black, bold linework, or intricate patterns. They can be simple, abstract, or highly detailed.
Sequoia, one of our newest artists, loves blackwork because of its boldness and comfort—“it’s the same color as my soul,” she jokes.
7. Japanese (Irezumi)
Rich tradition, powerful imagery.
Japanese tattooing, also known as Irezumi, is one of the oldest and most respected styles in the world. These tattoos are often large-scale pieces that feature mythological creatures like dragons, koi fish, tigers, or phoenixes, along with cherry blossoms, waves, and other cultural motifs.
Japanese tattoos are known for their strong outlines, bold colors, and detailed shading that flow seamlessly across the body. If you’re looking for a style with history, storytelling, and incredible visual impact, Irezumi might be the one for you.
8. Surrealism
Where reality meets imagination.
Surrealist tattoos bend the rules of reality, combining dreamlike elements with bold artistry. They often feature unexpected imagery—melting clocks, floating objects, or fantastical landscapes.
Our artist Hannah specializes in surrealism, blending it with vibrant color to create tattoos that look like something straight out of a dream.
9. Fine Line
Delicate, detailed, and modern.
Fine line tattoos use thin, precise lines to create intricate designs. They’re subtle, elegant, and often minimalistic, but can also be surprisingly detailed.
Perfect for those who want something low-key, sleek, or unique without the bold outlines of traditional tattoos.
10. Custom Work (Our Favorite!)
At Inked Under Ground, we pride ourselves on custom tattoos. Many of our artists prefer to create designs unique to each client, ensuring no one ever leaves with the same piece of art as someone else. Custom tattoos allow us to blend different styles—maybe a touch of blackwork with elements of realism, or a surrealist twist on a traditional design.
Your tattoo should be as unique as you are, and custom work makes that possible.
Choosing the Right Style for You
The most important thing to remember when choosing a tattoo style is this: go with what speaks to you. Your tattoo should reflect your personality, your story, and your vision. Don’t worry about trends or what others are getting—this is your art.
And if you’re unsure? That’s what we’re here for. Our artists will walk you through your options, help refine your ideas, and guide you toward a tattoo style that fits you perfectly.
Ready to Find Your Style?
Whether you’re drawn to bold American Traditional designs, vibrant Japanese pieces, or a delicate fine line tattoo, Inked Under Ground has an artist ready to bring your vision to life. Each member of our team has their own specialty, so no matter what style you’re dreaming of, you’re in good hands.
Book your appointment today and let’s create something unforgettable together.
Looking for more of our work? Check out our Gallery page!
