Pretty in ink Sexy tattoo trends!

Swirling scripts and geometric signs – these trends are taking the tattoo and body art world by storm.

tattoos and body art are always more than just colours and shapes,” says makeup artist Val Garland. “Back in the day, when tattoos could only be in permanent form, they were a statement of identity. Now, there are so many forms of body art to serve as a declaration of individuality.” No longer regarded as a clichéd act of rebellion, 21st-century tattoos are prettier, more colourful and daintier than ever. In short, they have become the hot accessory, allowing you to get creative.

Body art

Continuing the trend from last season – where every cool celebrity and model took to wearing body jewellery in the form of metallic transfers – designers embraced body and face art in all sorts of ways, including Val’s pressed flowers at Preen’s Spring 2017 show.

“Creating the Preen flower power is easy – all it takes is some eyelash glue and pressed petals,” she says. “The trick is to focus on just one thing at a time. It can be bold, it can be big, but keep one main focus.” When you draw something small or symbolic, felt-tip liquid liners are a great tool and easy to control. “They last longer than pencils and come in lots of fun colours, so you can get creative and have fun,” advises Val.

Celebrity style

“Ink that’s inspired by models and celebs is increasingly fashionable, and it’s evolved a lot over the past five years, thanks to

the growing obsession with social media,” says tattoo artist Guy Saar.

And as the industry grows, designs have grown more intricate. “Being a tattoo artist has become a serious career, and some of the world’s best artists are choosing to tattoo as an extension of their creative skill, making it possible to create pretty much anything,” Guy explains.

Quotes and line drawings

“I love the artistic creativity of tattoos and how personal they can be,” says makeup artist Derek Selby.

You can also recreate these cute designs for a special occasion: “I love to add temporary body art to a look before going out – it’s like adding jewellery,” says makeup artist Celia Burton.

“I swear by liquid eyeliner, as it’s water resistant and doesn’t bleed when you apply it. To add definition to your illustration, combine both pencil and liquid liners and allow your skin to act as a canvas,” advises Val.

Watercolour

“The range of colours that is available is huge. Tattoos used to only come in classic blue, but now artists are tattooing as if they were painting,” says Guy. But do your research! “If you’re considering a watercolour tattoo, it’s important to really discuss this with the artist, as ink can lose its contrast when it sets and ages.”

Tatt chat

Considering a tattoo? Make sure you look at options and ideas for inspiration.

“And it’s very important to visit the shop to ensure that it’s clean, and never quibble about the price,” says Guy. Why? “Even if you have to save for a year for your artwork, it is worth it. You shouldn’t scrimp when it comes to getting something on your body for the rest of your life. After all, it’s a lifelong investment!”