When someone walks into our shop, tattoo style is one of the first things we love to discuss. Every tattoo tells a story—not just through its subject matter but also through its style, detail, and visual language.

Whether considering your first tattoo or adding to a growing collection, understanding the different tattoo styles can help you choose something that resonates with you artistically and personally.

At Tattoo People, we're passionate about the art form. We take pride in offering custom designs across various styles, ensuring that each tattoo reflects the client's vision with precision and creativity.

Let's explore a few of the most popular and enduring styles we work with, including traditional and neo-traditional tattoos.

Different Tattoo Styles. Detail of young tattoo artist girl with glasses and mask making a tattoo of 'La Santa Muerte' (Our Lady of Holy Death) in the arm of a woman with tattoo machine.

Traditional (American Traditional) Tattoos

Traditional tattoos are a staple in the tattoo world. Also known as "old school" or "American traditional," this style is known for bold black outlines, limited but vibrant colour palettes (think red, green, yellow, and blue), and iconic imagery.

You've probably seen traditional designs like roses, skulls, eagles, anchors, daggers, pin-up girls, or sailing ships. These designs are rich in symbolism and rooted in the early days of Western tattooing.

They gained popularity through the work of legendary artists like Sailor Jerry and have continued to thrive ever since. What makes traditional tattoos timeless is their visual strength.

The bold lines and solid fills mean they age well, making them an excellent choice for those who want something with staying power. In our studio, we respect the heritage of this style while offering modern twists for those looking to add a unique touch.

Neo-Traditional Tattoos

Neo-traditional tattoos take the foundation of traditional tattooing and push the boundaries. This style keeps the bold outlines and strong imagery but incorporates more intricate details, expanded colour palettes, and deeper shading techniques.

Neo-traditional tattoos often feature subjects like animals, portraits, or fantasy scenes and use more exaggerated or stylized forms. Think of them as a blend of classic and contemporary—a way to celebrate tradition while embracing more complex designs.

We often recommend neo-traditional tattoos for clients who love the boldness of old-school ink but want a bit more artistic flair or narrative in their tattoos. With the added depth and broader range of colours, these tattoos stand out and allow for more elaborate storytelling within the artwork.

Black and Grey Tattoos

While not part of the traditional spectrum, black-and-grey tattoos deserve mention. This style focuses on shading, contrast, and realism, using varying tones of black ink to create depth and texture. Many clients choose black and grey for portraits, religious iconography, or highly detailed scenes.

This style can pair beautifully with neo-traditional influences, especially when you want something rich in emotion or realism but still structured by bold lines.

Different Tattoo Styles. Tattoo artist skillfully drawing a detailed cat tattoo on the arm of a young woman, comfortably seated in the studio, during an engaging and creative tattoo session.

Fine Line and Minimalist Tattoos

On the other end of the spectrum are fine lines and minimalist tattoos. These designs rely on precision, negative space, and subtlety. Often created with a single needle, fine-line tattoos are great for small, delicate designs like flowers, script, or geometric shapes.

While very different from traditional or neo-traditional styles, these styles are incredibly popular today, especially for those seeking something more discreet or elegant. We've seen clients pair fine-line work with larger, bolder pieces to create interesting visual contrast on their bodies.

Which Style Is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing a tattoo style, it's all about what speaks to you. Do you love the timeless appeal of sailor-style tattoos?

Do you want a more modern take with lush detail and colour? Or are you drawn to clean, minimalist lines or rich black-and-grey shading?

Our team at Tattoo People is here to guide you through that process. Collaboration is key to creating a tattoo that feels right. Whether you're coming in with a clear vision or looking to explore options, we're ready to help turn your ideas into art.

We also match you with the right artist for the style you're interested in. Each artist on our team brings their strengths and passions to the table, and we're always happy to showcase portfolios and walk you through the creative possibilities.

Final Thoughts

Tattoos are a personal and permanent form of expression, and your style plays a big role in how your tattoo will look and feel for years to come. From the bold tradition of American classics to the evolving artistry of neo-traditional work, there's a style for every story and every canvas.

If you're ready to start your tattoo journey or want to expand your collection, contact us at Tattoo People. Let's explore the possibilities together and create something you'll be proud to wear for life.

Exploring Different Tattoo Styles: From Traditional to Neo-Traditional