7 Tattoos For Proudly Identifying Leos

As a hopelessly sentimental fool, the meanings behind the zodiac signs have always intrigued me. And as an astrological hoarder on the Leo/Virgo cusp, so does the artistry of tattoos for Leos. I've never been one to follow the words of my weekly horoscope verbatim, but having a few helpful pointers guiding me when the world doesn't seem to be on my side is always a plus. Not to mention that the underlying symbolism of the fifth sign in the tropical zodiac is something I identify with. Once described by a friend as having "the energy of the Energizer bunny," I'd say I'm pretty upbeat and ambitious, and I like to think life's hand has dealt me a certain resilience in the face of adversity and the ability to think on my feet.

If you're also a proud Leo, you'll be happy to hear that we're purported to be one of the most creative signs of the zodiac. According to The Mirror, this is "because leonine personality despises the commonplace, they often create their own extraordinary surroundings, and innovate in exciting directions." As an avid bookworm who often dabbles in the world of performance, I can happily agree with this sentiment.

So why not put some of that creative energy to good use by decorating your body with a lovely Leo-themed tattoo? Here is a selection of roar-some designs sure to have you shaking your lion's mane in delight.

1. The Leo Zodiac Sign

If you're looking to showcase your Leo roots while keeping things subtle, this minimalistic zodiac sign tat could be your perfect option. Quick to ink, simple, and instantly recognizable, this little piece of artwork is suitable for placement almost anywhere on your body. You could even try swapping black for white ink to keep your tattoo discreet and extra personal.

2. A Sun Tattoo

This tattoo provides a perfect nod to Leo's ruling planet, the sun, and our season of birth, the summer. Bold and intricate yet simple in its monochrome aesthetic, this design is also ideal for emulation by henna lovers who aren't ready to commit to full-time inky branding just yet.

3. Constellations

Illuminating the black of night, constellation tattoos often have an air of mystique about them relating to ancient legends passed down from generation to generation. Whether you're an avid stargazer or simply have a fascination with geometric shapes, placing a constellation within a sun tat that commemorates your sign should be just the ticket.

4. Put Your Leo Love In A Heart-Shaped Box

Tiny and delicate, this inky wonder encompasses a simple line-drawn lion with Leo's ruling planet in a cute heart-shaped bordered design. IMO, it would look lovely placed on the inner arm, foot, or the back of the neck.

5. A Cara Delevingne-esque Finger Tattoo

When Cara Delevingne debuted her first tattoo — a lion on her index finger by Bang Bang NYC in May 2013 — she was very loyal to her star sign in her explanation of its significance. Delevingne told Grazia Daily: "I'm a Leo... I grew up being fearless in everything... I lost that when I started modeling." She continued, "I lost that inner fire, so I got the lion to bring that back in my mind." You can channel your own inner fire by choosing an identical placement. Or why not switch things up a bit by swapping an index finger tattoo for some toe or behind-the-ear artwork instead?

6. A Striking Rainbow Lion

Leos are distinguished by their expressive nature and a tendency to stand out. So when it comes to designing your leo-loyal tat-work, why stick to just one or two colors when you can celebrate the patchwork quilt that is Earth's color spectrum? If you ask me, this lavish lion would look amazing on the upper rib cage, back, or even the inner forearm.

7. A Leo-Loyal Tribute To Disney's The Lion King

As a child, my love for all things Lion King reached peak levels of obsession, from my beloved Simba T-shirt and leggings set to the happy tears I secretly shed during a trip to see the West End Broadway version live on stage. This roaring fixation might just explain my pride at being a Leo. With this sweetly nostalgic tattoo, I could forever be reminded of both my star sign and my all-time favorite Disney film.

What more could I ask for from a Leo-themed tattoo?

Images: ArtemPopov/Flickr