Note: Images in this post are not necessarily endorsements of any specific tattoo styles. Getting a tattoo is highly personal, and to each his own. Yet, there are a few things the ink-curious can do to minimize the risk of tattoo regret.
If you’re reading this, I’d guess there’s a 1 in 3 (maybe 1 in 2?) chance you have a tattoo. Body art is such a ubiquitous part of our culture these days, nearly as common as ear piercings. So if you have a tattoo, it’s not shocking, and it typically isn’t a deal breaker with most women. But, not all tattoos are created equal. Where the tattoo is located on your body is pretty significant–for you, and for potential mates. Of course, you have to do what’s right for you, what matches your aesthetic and preferences. But it should come as no surprise that a neck tat is going to be viewed much differently than an easily hidden tattoo on the upper back. Here, a list of common places you might have ink, and what women may think about them. Read on, fellas.
Back and/or Chest
A restrained tattoo (i.e., not one that covers your entire torso) on the chest or back is pretty sexy, especially if you’re in shape. A day at the beach is made even better by watching a couple guys with chest tats throw the football around, THE RIPPLING PEC MUSCLES BRINGING THE INK TO LIFE! One caveat–the male tramp stamp.
Arms. Upper and Forearm
The arm tattoo–you can’t cover it up when wearing short sleeves, and some ink is dark enough that you can still see it under a white dress shirt sleeve. A dude with serious arm art, like a sleeve, is about as daring as most women want to see on a dude. There are definitely women who won’t date a man with that much ink or ink in such an obvious place. It’s unfair, but we likely make some assumptions about such a guy. He definitely has a hard edge. He likes to drink. He swears a lot. He has a thing for pain (this is both sexy and scary). Not that you can’t dissuade a woman of such notions, but it might be a bit of a battle if you happen to be interested in someone who doesn’t dig the perceived bad boy vibe.
Legs, Specifically Calf
Legs are sort of like Switzerland–neutral territory. Not super hot, not super offensive, just there. Maybe it’s because lower legs on men aren’t typically thought of as attractive body parts? There are women who like butts, forearms, backs, chests, biceps, abs, maybe quads, but not many women nudge their friends and say, “Check out the shins on that dude.”
Neck and Face
What do we think when we see face or neck tattoos? Prison. Sorry, but there you have it. Many a reputable tattoo place won’t do face tattoos and many won’t do neck tattoos either, which is why we wonder where you got that ink between your eyes. Do you have a friend who dabbles in amateur body art (sketchy!) or have you spent some time in the clink? Not a good idea, my friends, but I doubt I need to explain that to most (any?) of you.
All over. Everywhere.
Words are really inadequate here. The picture says it all, amiright? Points for commitment though. Hang on. Are those teddy bears?
About the Author: If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it. Beth is our source for the answers. From opinions on men’s style to decoding the sometimes mysterious ways of women, she’ll take on a different question every Thursday. She also might provide an answer without waiting to be asked. That happens from time to time too. Click here to get to know Beth, then get in touch with her by sending your question to: askawoman@dappered.com .