@MADISONBEER/INSTAGRAM

They showed up on buns, braids, and ponytails first, then moved on to our hairstyles. Then we began to see them on everything from aour most laid-back denim-and-a-T ensembles to our most delicate coquette cupcake dresses. One of the most popular (and adorable) tattoo designs this year is a bow, and its popularity is growing.

Consider how a lovely present would be lacking without a bow; perhaps your tattoo collection could need a little sweetness, like a delicately wrapped ribbon. Keep reading to find out why bow tattoos are all the rage and to get some ideas.

Current Fashion
When you see bows on bags, buns, and your favorite celebs, it’s only a matter of time until you consider getting one tattooed on your flesh. This is why bow tattoos are so popular.

Several bow tattoos have been designed by Ariel Wei, a tattoo artist located in New York City. “As balletcore [and coquettecore] are trending in fashion, it’s directly reflected in tattoo trends, because more and more people seem to see tattoos as an accessory to match their style,” Wei adds.

The bow, like the hearts, stars, birds, and flowers that came before it, is delicate and delicate, yet classic and everlasting; it’s the type of tattoo that you’ll adore now, but will wish you hadn’t gotten 10 years from now. (Cough, shrug, finger tats of the 2010s.) In addition to conjuring up images of dress-up with dolls and dancing classes from one’s youth, bows evoke a mix of nostalgia and melancholy, as if one’s younger self were finally able to realize their childhood goals.

The bow may be overly feminine, but it complements many other types. With its inherent sweetness and beauty, the bow complements every outfit, according to Wei. “The bow just adds that extra something special to everything—a sultry outfit, grunge, you name it.” According to Wei, there has been a recent surge in requests for tattoos with bows. She casually mentions that she is receiving more requests than in previous years.

Even famous people can’t escape the bow craze; in late 2023, Hailey Bieber received a tiny bow, while musician Madison Beer has a somewhat bigger one—almost a jewelry piece—atop her hand. The bow is clearly here to stay, so we can only imagine that more and more of these ink designs will be appearing this year.

@HAILEYBIEBER/INSTAGRAM

How to Wear a Bow Tattoo

Whether this is your first tattoo or your fifty-seventh, a bow design is sure to be a hit. Everything about them, from size and positioning to color and texture, is completely up for grabs. Although Wei prefers to wear them on the arms or in the middle of the chest, they are truly versatile and may be worn wherever. An lovely and ethereal design would be a bow on the hand or close to the wrist, while a pinup-inspired two-bow design on the back of the thighs, just below the butt, would be a popular choice. When worn on the shoulder, next to the collarbone, or anyplace else, a bow is sure to turn heads.

In addition to being a part of a bigger tattoo or an existing design, bows can be used in conjunction with butterflies or birds, as a jewelry motif, or as an homage to a loved one. You have the option to request a basic black and white, add color, provide shading for detail, or keep it simple with an outline. They can be as tiny and subtle as Bieber’s or as large and dramatic as you choose. Seeking inspiration? Do not stop reading.

Bow Tattoo Inspiration

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Black Bow Tattoo

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A flawless masterpiece. Subtle and elegant, a narrow black bow sits just above the elbow; it can be worn exposed or used as a foundation for a full-or half-sleeve tattoo, depending on the occasion.

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Pink Bow Tattoo

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The small pearl-like bubbles on either side of this traditional, simple bow give another depth of sweetness. If you want something more than just a bow, consider adding a few additional features for interest.

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Bow and Butterfly

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We adore the combination of this traditional black bow and realistic butterfly. The combo seems so natural!

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Bow Hand Tattoo

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A hand placement strikes a balance between delicate and bold. We adore how this design combines words, stars, and little pearls.

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Bow Portrait Tattoo

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For a twist on the bow trend, consider adding it to another design, like this gorgeous rear-facing portrait with a ribbon detail.

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Bracelet Bow Tattoo

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Madison Beer’s bow tattoo is so delicate and finely drawn, it almost looks like a piece of jewelry. We’d love to see how it looks when paired with a wristful of bracelets.

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Baby Bow Tattoo

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Want something incredibly tiny? Consider placing a baby bow in an easily overlooked spot. It’s the simplest way to get into the trend.

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Edgy Bow Tattoo

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This cuff-style bow is pretty and feminine at first glance, but the ribbons give way to chains on either side, adding a bit of toughness.

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Sleek Bow Tattoo

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Shorten the bow’s “tails” for a less feminine, more traditional look. With clean black ink, you get a timeless design that will outlive the coquette trend.