Fashion trends of the 21st century often find their inspiration in the most unlikely of places. What was once reserved for the skin now adorns t-shirts, hoodies, hats and more. The art of the tattoo simply could not be kept from taking the world of fashion by storm.
Tattoo design clothing bridges the gap between skin and sleeve, creating a statement all its own. Tattoo lovers appreciate the added room for self-expression, and even those who might not be ready to ink their epidermis love the crazy, out-there designs. Let’s look at the ever-evolving trend of tattoo-inspired clothing to discover why it’s becoming one of the fastest growing trends of our time.
What is Tattoo-Inspired Clothing?
In the past, clothing has been a means of covering up tattoos. Most workplaces didn’t allow visible tattoos, so we donned stiff button-ups and concealed our true selves. But times have changed. Today’s culture is far more accepting of this incredible art form, making it far easier for everyone to boldly wear their art. But why stop at a mere t-shirt when you could take one more opportunity to make a statement?
Tattoo-inspired clothing is exactly what it sounds like: it’s any kind of clothing that draws its inspiration from tattoos, tattoo artists, and tattoo trends.
A Melting Pot of Art Forms
Both the art of apparel and tattooing have a rich history of artistic expression for the designer and the wearer. Each provides a canvas that can be used for self-expression, boasting designs all over the board from minimalistic styles to detailed motifs. The fusion of these two modes of fashion represent a new era of tattoos, where bold, iconic designs have spread beyond the skin and onto the clothing itself.
Next-Level Self-Expression
Tattoos can hold endless meaning for the wearer. Many folks sport tattoos that hold deeply personal meaning and stand as a symbol of a memory or even of their very identity. Tattoo-inspired clothing offers another facet of self-expression for its wearers. Individuals can choose symbols that match or compliment those on their skin, or bold styles that serve as another assertion of their unique identity.
Elements of Design
Tattoo-inspired clothing uses iconic imagery like skulls, anchors, animals, and roses to capture that trademark tattoo-esq artistry. These pieces might also feature delicate linework or other designs that the artist is well-known for. Featured in streetwear and urban styles, these rad designs are marked by their contrasting colors, bold fonts and graphics, and edgy vibes.
What are Some of Today’s Most Popular Tattoo Clothing Trends?
Although tattoo-inspired clothing appears on hats, shoes, sweatpants and more, when it comes to tattoo clothing, the t-shirt is king. This changeable canvas provides endless possibilities for expression, and can be worn in a variety of outfits and styles.
The Traditional Tee
The traditional tattoo-inspired tee displays classic American tattoo design elements like roses, skulls, crosses, and daggers. They feature contrasting colors, like black, white, and red, and typically give off some rad vintage vibes, making them a popular choice among seasoned and novice tattooees alike.
The Neo-Traditional Tee
This modern take on the traditional tattoo-inspired tee features bold, updated colors, and showcases the artwork of other cultures. Popular neo-traditional designs include Chicano or Japanese artwork in bright colors and eye-catching fonts.
The Realist Tee
Realist tattoos are a fast-growing trend. They feature life-like flowers, trees, landscapes, animals, or people. These can either be in black fine-line appearance, or feature realistic colors and shading. Realist tattoo art looks just as sick on graphic tees, and offers a great, customizable style choice.
The Minimalist Tee
As their name suggests, minimalist tattoo-inspired tees feature more low-key designs, like single-line artwork. Gen Z, known for their sticker tattoos, also enjoy apparel with similar designs. Minimalist tees are a great, subtle way to show your love for tattoos.
The Tribal Tee
Tribal tattoos feature elements inspired by African, Polynesian, Native American, or Scandinavian history and culture. These symbols and designs look great on the skin and on a t-shirt, and are full of meaning. Tribal tees often feature bright, geometric artwork.
The Anime Tee
Just like the tattoos they represent, anime tattoo tees feature popular and intricate characters and symbols with spiritual or mythological meanings. This colorful, detailed art form boasts sharp edges and that legendary “cartoon” look.
The Tattoo Artist Tee
Many tattoo artists feature their own tattoo-inspired clothing line. Sporting one of your artist’s custom designs is a great way to show your appreciation and to let everyone know who’s responsible for your sick art. Tattoo artist tees often feature one of your artist’s well-known designs, plus their signature. If you love your artist and their work, consider sporting a one-of-a-kind look to show it.
No matter what your tattoo style, there’s a fit for you. Whether you’ve got a deep appreciation for the classics or an eye for the latest in tattoo trends, tattoo-inspired clothing is a great way to compliment your artwork and embody a true tattoo enthusiast.
