No matter your opinion, tattoos are a deeply personal decision to permanently change your body. For many people, turning their skin into a canvas can be a bold expression that takes up an entire limb or a subtle act of symbolism easily hidden by clothing. As styles and meanings change, some may regret their choices. There may be more to some classic tattoos than meets the eye. Find out what some of today's most popular tattoos mean.
As faraway objects that shine overhead every night, it's not hard to imagine what star tattoos represent to many people. In some cases, the artistic design can incorporate well-known celestial elements such as major constellations, representing cultural connections to mythical folklore or a deeper tie to someone's zodiac sign.
Specific tattoos may grow and diminish in popularity over time, but some have remained iconic for ages. The use of an anchor has long stood for an obvious connection to sailors and life at sea—so much so that by the late 19th century, around 90 percent of those serving in the British navy reportedly had one or ink of some kind, The Guardian reported.
Some tattoos can involve intricate line work and shading that takes hours or days to finish. However, other prolific tattoos use nothing more than solid lines filled in with ink to make their impact. One such design is the solid black armband, which appears simple but carries a much deeper meaning.
Birds symbolise flight and far-flung travel. TatRing.com reports that 19th-century sailors chose swallows for their ability to find their way home after long journeys. The birds could also guide lost sailors to heaven, according to folklore.
Urban legends are full of stories about tattoos that could possibly signify an experience in crime or prison. And while it's important to remember that each person's ink has its own background, specific images commonly have connections to incarceration—including cobwebs.
As faraway objects that shine overhead every night, it's not hard to imagine what star tattoos represent to many people. In some cases, the artistic design can incorporate well-known celestial elements such as major constellations, representing cultural connections to mythical folklore or a deeper tie to someone's zodiac sign.