Tattoos can mean everything and nothing, depending on who you ask. For artists, it's a great way to get their creativity out there and help people express themselves. People get tattoos for a wide range of reasons, from the deeply personal to the more-often-than-not "I was drunk and it was a good idea at the time."

No matter what the situation is, tattoos have become commonplace enough that there are many misconceptions. This includes the more popular styles. Take, for example, anime tattoos: they don't really have a deep connection to Japanese tattoos. The tattoos associated with buff biceps, on the other hand, are anything but tribal. Lettering tattoos get a strange reputation, too; most are unaware prison camps used them!

Here's what you need to know when it comes to popular tattoo styles:

THE POPULAR STYLE: Traditional or Old School

KEY INFORMATION: Originating from the early 20th century, these came about when electric tattooing machines were being developed.  These are also referred to as "traditional American," largely because it all started with sailors. They did it for achievements at sea to be commemorated. A Sparrow tattoo, for instance, symbolized each time a person traveled 5,000 nautical miles. That's because at that rate, it meant they'd covered nearly a fourth of the earth's overall circumference. A King Neptune tattoo signified someone having crossed the Equator

It should be noted that the definition of this doesn't stop at sailor's traditions. The whole point of these tattoos as a whole is to mark achievements and preserve memories. Design-wise, they had 2D images, bold black outlines, whatever colors were on-hand and simple shading work.

Significant elements include, but are not limited to:

• Elements with their own symbolism (dice, roses, daggers)

• Lucky charms (clovers, horseshoes)

• Patriotic symbols (flags, eagles)

• People (sailors, pin-up girls)

THE POPULAR STYLE: New School

KEY INFORMATION: Going back to the 1970s, this style draws inspiration from art, cartoons, graffiti art and hip hop. Design-wise, they're vibrant, intentionally disproportional and their themes are irreverent. "Wild" is definitely a good way of describing the overall aesthetic. 3D effects and depth emerged here as well.

THE POPULAR STYLE: Neo Traditional

KEY INFORMATION: Contrary to New School, this has no vibrancy or brightness to its colors. Emerging in the 1980s and 1990s, it has only become more well-known over time. Instead of the cartoons and experimental artwork from New School tattoos, gradients and natural shapes are present here. It's less about symbolism and more about tattooing as an art alongside final aesthetics. While the visuals are 2D, the techniques have clearly improved. It's largely influenced by Art Deco and Art Noveau, the early 20th century's key artistic movements.

Significant elements include, but are not limited to:

• Native Americans

• Portraits

• Skulls

Conclusion

Tattoos are incredible works of art, though their meaning can vary greatly depending on several factors. Many styles have emerged over time, but some have withstood the years and become popular hallmarks. This includes Traditional or Old School, New School and Neo Traditional.

Trying to find the best tattoo parlor in Denver? Reach out to Certified Tattoo today! We’re the premier tattoo destination in Colorado; take your pick from our 3 locations, with more to come soon!