Finding Your Style
Choosing a tattoo style is one of the most important decisions in the process. The style determines not just how your tattoo looks on day one, but how it ages, how it sits on your body, and how it reflects your personality.
Here's an overview of the styles we specialise in at Felicidad Tattoo Studio.
Realism
Realistic tattoos aim to replicate photographs or lifelike images on skin. This style demands exceptional skill in shading, contrast, and detail. Portraits, animals, and nature scenes are popular subjects.
Best for: People who want their tattoo to look like a photograph. Works especially well for memorial portraits and animal pieces.
Ageing: Requires high contrast to hold detail over time. Regular sun protection is essential.
Japanese (Irezumi)
Traditional Japanese tattooing features bold outlines, rich colour palettes, and flowing compositions that work with the body's natural contours. Common motifs include koi fish, dragons, cherry blossoms, and hannya masks.
Best for: Large-scale pieces like sleeves and back panels. The style's flowing nature makes it ideal for wrapping around limbs.
Fine Line
Fine line tattoos use thin, delicate needle work to create intricate designs with minimal boldness. Florals, script, and minimalist illustrations are common in this style.
Best for: Subtle, elegant pieces. Popular for first tattoos and areas like the wrist, ankle, or behind the ear.
Ageing: Thin lines may spread slightly over time. Placement and aftercare matter more with this style.
Geometric
Geometric tattoos use precise shapes, patterns, and symmetry to create striking visual designs. They can be purely abstract or incorporate natural elements like animals and flowers into geometric frameworks.
Best for: People drawn to clean, structured aesthetics. Works beautifully along the spine, forearm, or chest.
Black & Grey
A versatile style that uses varying shades of black and grey ink to create depth and dimension. It encompasses everything from portraiture to illustrative work.
Best for: Those who prefer a more subdued, timeless look without colour.
Traditional & Neo-Traditional
Traditional tattoos feature bold outlines, limited colour palettes, and iconic imagery like anchors, roses, and eagles. Neo-traditional takes these foundations and adds more detail, depth, and a wider colour range.
Best for: Classic tattoo enthusiasts who appreciate bold, time-tested designs.
How to Decide
Still unsure? Here's our advice:
- Browse portfolios — look through our gallery and save pieces that catch your eye
- Consider placement — some styles suit certain body areas better than others
- Think long-term — how will this style age on your skin?
- Book a consultation — our artists can help translate your vision into the perfect style
Every person's ideal tattoo is different. The best style is the one that resonates with you and is executed by an artist who specialises in it.