Flower tattoos are the way to go if you prefer your ink with a side of symbolism and hidden significance. Florals of all varieties are a popular choice across the country, especially for new clientele. They are simply scaled down to the delicate sizes that have been popular on Instagram in recent years. At the same time, they look equally lovely when enlarged to cover your torso or arms. And because flowers have associations of wonderful things (such love, fresh beginnings, and happiness), chances are you won’t want to get rid of them one day.
“A lot of my inquiries are for flower tattoos because of the different meanings behind them,” says Seoul-based artist Hongdam, whose meticulously detailed sketches and delicate aesthetic have made him popular globally. “I think they can be a good design for anyone.”
Hongdam recommends coming in with some reference images that show the exact style you want, then thinking about how you’d like your tattoo to look on your body. “There are no rules for choosing placement, but sometimes I’ll recommend where the design would work well,” he says. Ultimately, though, it’s up to you. “Since it lasts a lifetime, you need to choose where you want it,” he adds.
We gathered the coolest flower tattoos and floral designs from our favorite artists and asked them to discuss the significance behind each to help you narrow down your references.