I get so excited when I see a really good, simple tattoo. It proves you don’t need a huge piece to make an impact!
I went ahead and collected 43 of the prettiest and most straightforward designs out there. If you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo or just want something with a delicate vibe, you’ve come to the right place.
1. Red Rose Tattoo Idea
Source: @maxim_rtatt
If you’re a fan of floral tattoos, you have to see this design. It features a single rose done completely in red ink.
I love this because it makes a bold statement while still feeling simple since it’s all one color.
A tattoo like this could be a great way to show off your favorite flower, or it could represent someone you love, since red roses are all about romance.
2. Date Tattoo
Source: @americandebbie
For a date that means the world to you, a tattoo like this is such a cool idea. This one shows the year 1998 tattooed just above the ankle.
You could choose the year you got married, when your child was born, or another important family birthday. I think a tattoo like this is amazing because it’s simple, personal, and so meaningful.
3. Stylish Lotus Tattoo
Source: @goodtattooclub
The lotus flower is another design I see everywhere, and for good reason! You can go as simple or detailed as you want.
If you’re into more low-key tattoos, a black ink lotus with a trendy geometric pattern like this one is a great choice. But if you want to be a bit bolder, a realistic lotus with lots of color would also be gorgeous.
Either way, it’s going to look amazing. I love the design here because it’s totally timeless and would suit anyone.
4. Paw Print Tattoo Idea
Source: @ilwolhongdam
Okay, if you have a pet, this idea might just be perfect for you. This one features two simple and small paw prints tattooed on the wrist.
I think a tattoo like this is a sweet way to show your love for animals, or it could even be a memorial for a pet who is no longer with you.
For an even simpler and more subtle look, you could totally just get one paw print instead.
5. Love Tattoo Design
Source: @joannamroman
Are you looking for a simple matching tattoo idea? If so, this could be the one. This couple chose to get the word “love” tattooed on their fingers.
The letters are in a font that’s easy to read and done in stylish black ink. It’s such a cool and trendy design that shows your love to the world.
If you’re not in a relationship, you could get a different word tattooed on your finger, maybe something that inspires you!
6. Small Wing Tattoo
Source: @joannamroman
If you’re on the hunt for a small and simple tattoo, this could be absolutely perfect. Here we have a tiny wing tattooed on the ankle.
A design like this would be great for a first tattoo, or if you want something that’s easy to cover up. You could try a wing like this one, or maybe choose an angel wing or even a butterfly wing.
It’s all about picking a wing that represents you.
7. Stylish Star Tattoo
Source: @cipeltattoo
My next idea features a really stunning star design. There are a few small, black ink stars tattooed on the ribs. It’s such a simple concept, but it’s so stylish.
You could get stars like these tattooed anywhere; I think the wrist would look beautiful. You could add some color, but to keep the tattoo minimal, just stick with black ink.
8. Trendy Breathe Tattoo Design
Source: @joannamroman
Mantras and positive thinking are such great ways to improve well being. This next simple tattoo features one of those daily, positive mantras with the word “breathe”.
It’s a perfect reminder to just take a step back and breathe when life gets a little hectic. If you’re into mantras, stylish tattoos, and want to show a positive message, then this is definitely the tattoo for you.
9. Simple Love Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
The next tattoo I have to show you is another word design. This one features the word “love” and it has been tattooed behind the ear.
It’s a gorgeous design, and you could choose a similar tattoo or have the word “love” tattooed in a different spot with a different font.
Either way, simple tattoos like this one are a beautiful way to show your love to the world.
10. Small Red Heart Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Here’s another heart idea I’m loving. This one doesn’t have an outline; instead, it has been filled in with a vibrant red color. It’s a cute, colorful, and simple design.
You could get a heart like this tattooed anywhere, I think the ankle or wrist would be cool choices. And of course, you can always go for different colors if you want!
11. Tiny Dove Tattoo
The dove is a symbol of love and peace, which is so beautiful. Not only is it a lovely bird with a special meaning, but a dove also looks great as a tattoo.
Here is a gorgeous example. It features three small doves tattooed on the arm, and each one is flying in a different way. It’s such a chic and cute design.
To make it even simpler, you could choose to get just one dove instead of three, but either way, the tattoo will look amazing.
12. Single Rose Tattoo
Flower tattoos are so popular, especially roses. This next idea is a stunning example of a rose tattoo. The design features one single rose with a leafy stem.
Even though flowers can be intricate, this black outline looks quite simple. It’s a gorgeous tattoo and I absolutely love this design!
13. Stylish Red Bracelet Tattoo
Source: @ira_shmarinova
My next idea is so unique and creative. Here we have a red design that’s been tattooed all the way around the wrist, creating a bracelet look. It’s a simple tattoo, but it really makes a statement.
There are so many ways a tattoo like this could be created. You could choose any color, any line thickness, and add any patterns you like. It’s a super cool tattoo idea that I think would look awesome on everyone.
14. Elegant Faith Tattoo
Next up, I have another word tattoo for you. This one reads “faith”. It’s an elegant design, but it’s simple too.
The tattoo could be a symbol of having faith in yourself or in others, and it can also represent your beliefs. You could recreate a tattoo just like this one or go for a totally different font.
15. Small Anchor Tattoo
My next idea is an anchor tattoo. The anchor can symbolize so many things, like strength, stability, and loyalty. So, not only do these look awesome, but they can also have a really special meaning.
A simple anchor design like this one would be a great choice for anyone thinking about getting an anchor tattoo. It’s cute, subtle, and totally timeless.
16. Double Heart Outline Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Earlier in the post, I featured a heart outline. If you liked that idea, then you should definitely check this one out too. This tattoo is another outline design, but instead of one heart, there are two.
One has a dark black outline while the other is more delicate and has a different shape. It’s such a cool and creative take on the classic outline.
You could even have one heart in a different color to make the tattoo uniquely yours.
17. Always Quote Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Looking for a tattoo idea with a meaningful quote? Look no further. Here I have a beautiful tattoo with the word “always”.
The word “always” could mean that you will love someone forever or that you’ll never forget someone special. It’s a subtle and stunning way to show you care.
You could also use any other meaningful word with a similar design.
18. Small Lotus Tattoo
Source: @joannamroman
My next idea features a stylish lotus flower. The flower has been tattooed on the sternum and has a trendy geometric design. A geometric pattern like this is a great way to keep the tattoo simple but still gorgeous.
You can also choose a more detailed lotus if you want. You could get a similar tattoo to this one, or have a lotus like this tattooed somewhere else. The ankle or wrist would be a cool place for it.
19. Infinity Symbol
Source: @wittybutton_tattoo
A really popular simple tattoo design is the infinity symbol. This symbol can represent so many different things, like endless love, never-ending friendship, and it can have a spiritual meaning too.
So, not only does it look awesome, but it can also be very meaningful. It’s a simple design that will suit everyone and it can be tattooed anywhere. This finger tattoo is such a stylish example, I just love this design!
20. Heart Outline
Next up, I have a cute and pretty tattoo to show you. This one is a simple black heart outline. A heart tattoo would be great if you want to show you care for someone or if you just love the design itself.
You can recreate the black outline exactly, or choose a different color. I think pink or red would be lovely.
21. Simple Star Sign Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Are you into horoscopes? Then this tattoo is totally for you. Here we have a small star sign tattoo. It’s subtle, simple, and so stylish.
You could get your star sign tattooed just like this one or choose something a little larger. A design like this will never go out of style and it can be tattooed anywhere. It would also make a great first tattoo!
22. Cool Wave Tattoo Idea
Source: @joannamroman
Next, I have another tattoo idea for those who love the beach and the ocean. This tattoo features a simple wave design. It’s a very subtle tattoo but, as you can see, it looks super stylish.
Something like this would be great as a first tattoo since it’s just one line. You can recreate this black ink design or try having a blue wave instead of a black one.
23. Constellation Tattoo Design
Source: @wittybutton_tattoo
Next up, I have another design for those who love the stars. This tattoo features a stunning star constellation. It’s a super cool and trendy idea.
You can have any star constellation tattooed, which makes it a stylish and personal tattoo that I think will look awesome.
24. Pretty Purple Moon
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Maybe you prefer the moon to the stars? If so, you need to see this design idea. This tattoo features a pretty purple moon. It’s a simple and beautiful design with an ombre purple effect on the moon.
I love this idea because it’s a more subtle way to have a colorful tattoo. You can recreate this moon or try a moon in a different color of your choice.
25. Tiny Star Tattoo
Source: @wittybutton_tattoo
Do you love looking at the night sky or just like stars in general? Then my next tattoo is for you.
Here we have a simple and small star design that’s been tattooed behind the ear. It has a cute black outline and will look stylish on everyone.
You can have a star like this tattooed anywhere, and for a bolder look, you could make the design a little bigger.
26. Stylish Shell Tattoo
Next, I have a stylish shell design to show you. This cute shell has been tattooed on the arm. It’s a simple, shaded design with a black ink outline.
You could recreate this or just have the shell outline with no shading. Either way, it will look gorgeous. A shell is perfect for anyone who loves the beach, the ocean, and mermaids too!
27. Small, Regal Crown Tattoo
Source: @wittybutton_tattoo
Every queen needs a crown, right? With my next tattoo, you’ll never be without one! Here we have a simple crown tattoo design.
The small, black ink crown has been tattooed behind the ear. It’s a subtle piece of art, but it looks so stylish, and you can choose to show it off or cover it up.
You could try a similar tattoo to this one, or you could have a crown tattooed somewhere else. The wrist is a really popular spot.
28. Simple Eyelashes Tattoo Idea
The first design I want to show you is this pretty eyelashes tattoo. It’s a simple design that features a pair of long, stylish eyelashes.
I think a tattoo like this is great for the ladies who love makeup and beauty. It’s a cute idea that will look good on everyone.
29. Black Ink Butterfly
Source: @cagridurmaz
Next up, I have a really pretty tattoo idea for you. Here we have a black ink butterfly that is tattooed on the arm. It’s a low-key and cute design that will suit everyone, and it can be placed anywhere on the body.
You can recreate this black ink butterfly, or you could even try the simple design in a different color for a bolder look.
30. Flower Bracelet Tattoo
Source: @cagridurmaz
Just because a tattoo is simple doesn’t mean it can’t make a statement. This wrist tattoo is a beautiful example of that.
For this design, a flower has been tattooed all the way around the wrist to create a bracelet effect. It’s a gorgeous idea, and you could choose any flower for your bracelet tattoo.
This is perfect for anyone who wants a bold but minimal design.
31. Three Heart Outlines
Source: @cagridurmaz
Next, I have a cute tattoo idea to show you. This design features three heart outlines. The hearts are done in black ink, and the design is pretty and stylish. You can recreate this or use any number of hearts.
They could maybe represent your family or you and your partner. So, that could help you decide how many hearts to get.
You can try the hearts in black ink or go for a bolder design and maybe choose red or pink hearts instead.
32. Simple Snake Tattoo Idea
Source: @cipeltattoo
Snakes are such a popular choice for tattoos. I think it’s because they look very cool, but they can also be meaningful. A snake can represent transformation, healing, and more.
Here we have a simple and trendy snake tattoo idea. It’s a black snake that has been tattooed on the hand. An edgy design like this will suit everyone.
You can recreate this, or you could have the snake tattooed somewhere else and in a different color, too.
33. Botanical Tattoo Design
Source: @cipeltattoo
Leafy tattoos are another stylish must have. I’ve seen a lot of these tattoos, but the design below is one of my favorites. Here we have a simple black ink botanical design that’s tattooed on the thigh.
It’s so trendy and will look amazing on anyone. You can recreate this or choose a different plant. For a bolder look, you could add some green color too.
I think watercolor would look amazing because it would still be quite subtle.
34. Cute Daisy Tattoo Design
Source: @cipeltattoo
Are you a fan of floral tattoos? Then you need to check out this idea. Here we have a beautiful arm tattoo that features daisies.
The stems of the daisies create a green geometric design, and the delicate flower heads are added on top. It’s an unusual, simple, and statement making idea.
You can recreate this or choose different flowers for your own version.
35. Simple Heart and Plane Tattoo
If you love to travel, then this tattoo could be perfect for you. Here we have a simple tattoo design that features a heart outline with a plane inside.
It could show how much you love traveling all around the world. You can get a design like this tattooed anywhere. If the heart isn’t really for you, you could try a design that looks more like the Earth instead.
36. Moon and Stars
Source: @cipeltattoo
Earlier in the post, I shared a stylish star tattoo. If you loved that idea, then you need to see this next design too.
Here we have a cute ankle tattoo that features the moon and the stars. It’s such a delicate and pretty tattoo that will look amazing on anyone.
A design like this is perfect for those who love the night sky and space, or if you just want a chic and simple tattoo.
37. Unique Ear Tattoo Design
Source: @zihee_tattoo
Next, I have another leafy tattoo design to share with you. This one is simple but very unique. A small green and blue plant has been tattooed on the ear.
As you can see, it’s subtle but so stylish! A design like this is perfect for those who like unusual body art and for those who need a tattoo that is easy to cover up.
38. Hogwarts Outline
Source: @cagridurmaz
My next idea is perfect for any Harry Potter fan out there! Here we have a tattoo that features a black ink outline of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It’s such a minimal and cool design.
To everyone else, this will just look like a trendy tattoo, but fans of the series will know what it is instantly. This is a more subtle way to show your love for the wizarding world.
39. Simple Cross Tattoo
The next tattoo idea I have to show you is very minimal and trendy. Here we have a thin black ink cross that is tattooed on the arm.
This is great for those who like edgy and stylish body art, but it can also represent any beliefs you might have too. A design like this is subtle and will suit everyone.
40. Stylish White Ink Tattoo
Source: @cipeltattoo
Next up, I have a simple tattoo that will make you stand out from the crowd in style. This is a hand tattoo that’s been done in white ink.
I love white ink because it’s so unusual and stunning. This tattoo features a quote, but you could have any design done in white ink.
If you do like the quote idea, try to choose something that inspires you. You can have the tattoo placed anywhere on your body.
41. Tiny Flower
Do you love floral tattoos? Then you really need to see this idea. This very small tattoo features two flowers with a black stem and red petals. It’s such a pretty and subtle design.
If you want to be bolder, you could try having bigger flowers designed. You can also change the petal colors to any shade you like.
42. Double Heart Outline Tattoo
Source: @aeri_tattoo
Earlier in the post, I featured a heart outline. If you liked that idea, then you should definitely check this one out too.
This tattoo is another outline design, but instead of one heart, there are two. One has a dark black outline while the other is more delicate and has a different shape.
It’s such a cool and creative take on the classic outline. You could even have one heart in a different color to make the tattoo uniquely yours.
43. Simple Wave and Sun Design
I featured a wave design earlier, but here’s another version that has a beautiful sun too. Most of the tattoo is one continuous line as the wave seamlessly turns into the sun.
It’s a gorgeous tattoo that’s perfect for ladies who love the beach and the summer. Simple tattoos with a beachy theme like this can also be a way to represent vacations and traveling.