6 Summer Tattoo Trends, According to Pro Artists

Summer is the perfect time, as Drake would say, to start wearing less and going out more. With that often comes a spike in interest when it comes to body art. “Although it’s not recommended to get tattooed around a time where you will be heavily exposed to the sun or submerged in water for long periods of time, people love to get tattooed in the summertime,” tattoo artist Jazmin Paulino tells PS. “Minimal clothing is the move if you want to show off your new ink. What better time to do that than the summer?”

Not only do people want to have their designs on display, but they could be inspired by their summer travels. “It’s possible people are inspired by other collectors’ tattoos and might want to switch it up for summer,” Paulino says. “Summertime is also prime travel season, and tourists might want to change what they get during the summer to commemorate their experiences.”

Whatever your reason for wanting a new tattoo, if you’re thinking of adding to your collection, there are a few designs the pros think will be trending for summer. From “tail tats” to butterflies and popular new tattoo placement ideas, read ahead for some inspiration before you make that appointment.

Experts Featured in This Article

Jazmin Paulino is a tattoo artist at Orchard Street Tattoos in New York City.

Sydney Smith is a tattoo artist who specializes in fine-line tattoos.

Wesley Austin is an LA-based tattoo artist who is best known for his portrait designs.

Kandace Layne is the owner of Magic Mirror Tattoo Studio and is based in Georgia.