I’ll be the first to admit that rib tattoos have a reputation for being a bit intense, but the payoff is a seriously stunning piece of art you can show off or keep to yourself. It has that ultimate cool-girl vibe.
While they’re known to be painful, the beautiful body art you end up with is so worth it. And because I love sharing my favorite finds, I’ve rounded up some of the absolute best rib tattoos for women.
1. Hummingbird Rib Tattoo
Source: @abrahaoana
I am so obsessed with this next rib tattoo because it is just super cute! The design has a vibrant hummingbird next to a colorful flower.
This looks so pretty because of all the colors, patterns, and the jewelry detail hanging on the bloom. A tattoo like this one would look great on absolutely anyone.
You could switch up the design by using different colors and another flower to make it unique for you.
2. Moon and Stars Rib Tattoo
Source: @equilattera
Next up, we have another space inspired tattoo idea. This one shows off star constellations and the moon. It makes for a totally unique and awesome rib design.
You could choose this moon and stars look, or you could even go with your own star sign constellation.
3. Large Floral Rib Tattoo
Source: @sabootattoos
First on our list is this beautiful floral concept for the ribs. The flowers here are peonies, and the entire tattoo is done in black ink.
This is such a gorgeous piece, and you can recreate it in a couple of ways. You could get a large, similar tattoo, use fewer flowers, or even add a pop of color.
4. Vibrant Floral Rib Tattoo
Source: @zihee_tattoo
Our next idea features a vibrant floral piece, which is perfect for anyone who wants a cute and pretty tattoo. Since it’s a small design, it would be a great choice for someone thinking about a first tattoo, too.
You can definitely take inspiration from this art and pick different colors or other kinds of flowers. We really love this one.
5. Cute Rose and Bird Rib Tattoo Idea
Source: @graffittoo
Here we have a cute rib tattoo with both a rose and a dove. A dove represents peace, while a rose symbolizes love, hope, and beauty. So, this tattoo is completely full of peace and love!
You can have a rose and dove created together or just pick one of the elements. Either way, you are going to have an awesome piece of art.
6. Small Wave Tattoo
Source: @cagridurmaz
Hoping to find a subtle but cute tattoo? This concept might be for you. A small wave in black ink has been tattooed right on the ribs.
Wave designs can hold many meanings, from loving the ocean to being a symbol for life. You could also get colorful waves made or perhaps a bigger design.
7. Dragonfly Rib Tattoo
Last on our roundup is this dragonfly tattoo. Dragonflies are symbols of positivity, joy, and bravery. So, this not only looks great but also has a lot of meaning behind it.
You can opt for a black ink piece like the one pictured or go for something with color.
8. Mandala Rib Tattoo
Source: @tattoomink
Mandala designs are such beautiful, patterned pieces of art. This next tattoo is proof of how amazing mandalas can look on the ribs.
With mandalas, you can choose any pattern you like. So, you could get a design that is similar to the one shown here or have your artist create one for you that feels personal.
9. Cute Planet Design Idea
Source: @koray_karagozler
Are you a fan of space and the planets? Then this next rib tattoo is perfect for you! Here we have a cute Saturn design.
You can draw inspiration from this and get a similar tattoo, or you could pick a different planet. If you were hoping for a larger piece of body art, you could even get the whole solar system!
10. Elegant Rib Tattoo Idea
Next, we’re looking at a beautiful ornamental tattoo. It is a really elegant piece that feels like a mix of architecture and nature.
A design like this is just right for someone who wants a very stylish tattoo. You can have a similar design done or maybe try out a different size and color.
11. Rib Cage Watercolor Tattoo
Source: @dopeindulgence
Next up is a cool watercolor tattoo concept. We are big fans of watercolor tattoos because they look like works of art on a canvas, almost as if the artist painted the design directly on the skin.
This technique looks especially beautiful with floral pieces; it really captures the delicate nature of flowers. Here is a stunning example of a floral rib tattoo, and a design like this would look amazing on anyone.
12. Rose Rib Tattoo
Source: @marlonb_tatts
Roses are a super popular choice for tattoos. This next idea isn’t your traditional rose; it’s more artistic and creative. The rose also has an arrow-like design going through it.
This is the perfect tattoo for someone who is looking for a unique and pretty piece. The design would also look amazing with some color.
13. Family Tattoo Idea
Source: @botykanna
Is your family important to you? Are you on the hunt for a tattoo that shows how much you care? In that case, this next idea could be for you.
Here is a rib tattoo that features the word family in an elegant font. There is also a beautiful plant at the end of the word. You could have a similar design made, or you could pick a quote or a different word.
14. Beautiful Butterfly Rib Tattoo Idea
Source: @lucasmilk
Butterflies are a symbol of freedom, hope, life, and romance. So, it’s really no surprise that these beautiful creatures are a popular choice in tattoo design.
This next rib idea showcases a black ink butterfly with patterned wings. It’s a stunning example of a rib tattoo, and you can take inspiration from this by having a smaller butterfly created or choosing different patterns and colors.
15. Flowers & Bird Rib Tattoo Idea
Source: @anna_bravo_
Next, we have a flower and bird design concept. This is a beautiful tattoo that would look amazing on anyone.
There are so many design possibilities, though, that can make the art feel unique to you. You can select a different kind of bird or different flowers, or add in some color. We just love this nature inspired piece.
16. Pretty Botanical Rib Tattoo Idea
Searching for a more subtle design? Then this next idea is for you. Here we have a botanical rib tattoo.
This one stands out from some of the others because instead of going around the ribs, it’s a design that goes straight down.
You can have any plant tattooed; lavender would be a nice choice, and maybe you could include a quote.
17. Large Bright Flower Rib Tattoo
Are you looking for a vibrant rib tattoo design? If so, this next idea could be perfect. Here we have a pink floral rib tattoo.
This is a pretty piece that really makes a statement. You can get a similar design created or choose different flowers in your own favorite colors.
18. Creative Stag Rib Design
Source: @chik.tattoo
Our next idea is a stag. This is not just an ordinary stag, as the shape of the animal is actually made with trees.
This is such a creative and unique design, and we love it! Using trees creates a natural and magical looking tattoo. You can opt for something similar or pick a more classic stag design.
We hope you have found the perfect rib tattoo design!