Beauty
15 Red Ink Tattoo Ideas For That Kylie Jenner Vibe
Add a colorful pop to your body art collection.
No shade to black, but it’s the most popular and traditional ink color for tattoos — so if you’re looking to stand out or spice up your body art collection, consider trying red ink. If Kylie Jenner has anything to say about crimson tats (she does — just look at her array of colorful designs), it’s clear that the hue is about to have a moment. The color is so trendy and fun, and with more than 144 million views on TikTok, there’s no shortage of inspo to pull from.
Red ink tattoos are at once unique and eye-catching yet subtle and chic, says Cassie May, a tattoo artist and owner of The Cassie May Studio. The color has been gaining popularity not only because it’s pretty to look at, but because it’s unique.
According to Anastasiia Gatsko, a tattoo artist and owner of G Tattoo & Piercing, the subtle hint of color from a red ink tattoo can also give off dainty, delicate vibes. That’s why, if you’re on the fence about getting your first tattoo, red ink can be an ideal way to ease your way in.
Before you take the leap, though, talk to your tattoo artist about possible allergies. According to May, some people are more allergic to colored tattoo inks, so it’s always a good idea to do a test beforehand. Also important to note? May says red ink may be tougher to remove since it’s hard for lasers to zero in on.
Keep scrolling below for a wide array of red ink designs to use as inspiration for your next (or first!) tat.
1So Scripted
Script or cursive tattoos have been around for ages, but when you get them done in red ink, the design instantly gets a cool refresh. A simple word — like “kindness” — looks extra pretty in this sultry shade, whether you place it on your arm, wrist, or the top of your thigh.
2Red Rose
You can’t go wrong with getting a classic rose in red ink. Whether you go for a fine line abstract design or a botanically-correct flower, the pop of color will feel so right.
3Crimson Butterfly
A beautiful ’90s-inspired butterfly tattoo is a fan fave on social media because, well, it’s just so darn cute. To make the pretty insect your own, go for red ink so the details really shine.
4Lightning Bolt
If you’re wary about getting your first tattoo or want something super discreet, red ink can feel like less of a commitment. To make the leap even smoother, opt for a tiny design, like this itty bitty lightning bolt. What’s even better? With a design so small, the process will be over in a flash.
5Cheeky Chat
Cheeky tattoos feel even cheekier in red ink. Choose a funny quote — like “I’m fine, thank you” — and get it permanently emblazoned on your arm for all to see. That way you won’t even have to answer people’s questions — the tat says it all.
6Bunch Of Botanicals
Botanical tattoos are guaranteed to be gorgeous, but especially so in red ink. They can be meaningful, too, if you choose flowers that feel special to you or someone in your life. (It’s also totally OK if you just like the look of a bouquet.)
7Fresh Strawberry
Fruit tattoos are undeniably adorable, especially when done in red ink. The red leans into the freshness of it all by calling attention to the juicy details. For other red ink food ideas, consider a watermelon slice, pomegranate, or a little red chili pepper.
8Matching Bows
Bows, ribbons, and all things coquette are so in right now. (See Hailey Bieber’s hair bows and everything balletcore.) To take the aesthetic to your tattoo collection, opt to get a matching red ribbon tattoo with a friend or S.O.
9Hearts Ablazing
You can’t talk about red ink tattoos without mentioning hearts. Try a triple-outlined one like the above, a teeny tiny minimalist design, or a heart that’s totally filled in for an extra eye-catching dose of red.
10Red Cherries
A crimson shade feels so right for retro-looking tattoo designs. Think glistening cherries, disco balls, or a pair of dice. Even a cowboy boot tattoo would look good in red.
11Cute Animals
Red ink also feels innocent and sweet, which is why it’s the ideal hue for cutesy designs. Think hearts and fruits, as well as little animals, like this bunny. A portrait of your pet would be adorable, too.
12Cottagecore
Rather than go for a more traditional floral tattoo, consider taking a cottagecore route. These red, retro-looking flowers are so groovy.
13Slithery Snake
Judging by all the red ink reptiles on social media, a snake is one of the most popular red ink tattoos you can get — and it’s easy to see why. The color looks so edgy with this type of tat.
14Lucky Number 5
Angel number tattoos are always cute, subtle, and meaningful — the perfect trifecta when it comes to getting inked. A 555 or a 777 on the inside of your arm will be understated yet impactful.
15Red Details
When in doubt, a minimalist design like these geometric lines is an easy way to add colorful ink to your body art collection. This type of tattoo looks great on a wrist, on the back of an arm, or even behind your ear.
Sources:
Cassie May, tattoo artist based in Toronto
Anastasiia Gatsko, tattoo artist, owner of G Tattoo & Piercing