Fashion

15 Creative Tattoos That Mean Love

by Kristin Collins Jackson

The tiny heart on my wrist may surprise some people; despite the skulls and upside down crosses inked on my body, there is a romantic in me that swoons for awesome tattoos about love. Whether it's an elegantly put statement, a symbol of romance, or matching wedding ring tattoos, if the tattoo is well done then the ink will forever be a reminder of love. Love doesn't have to last forever for it to be perfect, so I'm completely understanding of want a lasting memory of that feeling of being head over heels for someone. Your tattoo will last forever, so picking a tattoo about love is crucial.

We've all seen cheesy lovey dovey tattoos before. I actually knew a girl who had tattooed her boyfriend's name in high school and deeply regretted it... but that regret was not strong enough to stop her from tattooing her next boyfriend's name on her body as well. After they broke up, she did what any sane person would do: date a tattoo artist next and have him cover up her previous love and tattoo mistakes. Yes, tattooing your partner's name on your bod is risky business, but not all ink that celebrates romance has to be that way. Choosing a tat that reminds you of being loved, loving, or even the promise of love can keep you from having major tattoo regrets, even if it was for a specific person at the time.

Looking for inspiration? These rad tattoos are all about love.

1. A Romantic Display of Affection

This tattoo has love written all over it, with great color and awesome line work.

2. A Water Color Painting

This water color tattoo has everything going on: amazing color work, emotion, shading. Capturing the essence of water color paintings is enough to make you fall in love with your tattoo artist.

3. Heart Halves

This two-person heart tattoo definitely took a little piece of my own heart. Since some of the most lasting loves are friendships, you don't need a significant other to take part in this tattoo about love.

4. Kissing On a Bike

Having kissed on a bike or two in my day, I can personally attest to the romance behind this awesome ink. Your favorite pastime with your significant other can be an excellent way to pay tribute to your love.

5. It's All About Us

I'm a sucker for a romantic and I'm even more of a sucker for a romantic with tattoos. This tattoo is all about love and couldn't be more perfect. Plus, men in floral tats? Yes, please.

6. A Love Letter

The only thing that makes me swoon more than a love letter is this tattoo of a love letter.

7. Family Love

This tattoo of an older woman holding a younger woman's hand is sure to receive plenty of "Aww!"s because it's a love that is eternal, pure, and truly lasts forever. Whether you want to pay tribute to your mother, daughter, or sibling, this tat is perfect.

8. Romantic

Sometimes I wish I had more than 10 fingers so I could get all the finger tattoo ideas I have. This simply romantic finger tat is bold and incredibly loveable.

9. A Single Rose

Whenever I think I'm over rose tattoos, I find a beautiful, intricate one that wins my heart. This flower is well-known for symbolizing love and with artwork like this? You can't help but loving this rose tat.

10. A Quote For Both

A quote tattoo for you and your partner can be hard to pick. This script stands well on its own, but is especially powerful when joined together. Kind of like love, right?

11. Love

What better way to permanently express your love of love by getting Love tattooed on your ring finger with your partner?

12. Both Of You Forever

Simply put, tattoos may last longer than true love. When you're six feet under (or wherever you intend to be), it's sort comforting to know you'll still have your matching ink.

13. A Detailed Heart

Celebrate being a heart person with this stunning design.

14. An Owl Of Love

Here's a perfect tattoo for singles and couples. The scissor in the heart reminds me of how simultaneously fragile and strong love is.

15. Hand Holding

Two hands clasped together can be a lasting memory of your friend, lover, or family member. I can feel all types of love coming from these finely inked hands.

Image: Flickr