Fashion

11 Subtle Tattoos For People Who Aren't Quite Sure If They're Ready To Commit

There are few commitments quite as intense and personal as getting your first tattoo. It took me a very long to decide whether I truly wanted one. For one thing, regardless of how many years into adulthood I was, I was still scared of my mom's reaction. Also, my skin tends to scar pretty badly, and I was worried it wouldn't heal well. But, most importantly, I was just terrified of the actual commitment. What if I changed my mind, or ended up hating my tattoo years later?

My first tattoo ended up being a "test." I got a discreet design of a small cross on the lower right side of my stomach near my hip, where it is easily covered up by my jeans. Getting a discreet tattoo was not only a way to ease into the world of ink, but also to see how my skin would react, and whether I could deal with getting more.

Also, on a personal note, I had thought about getting a tattoo for 15 years, and ultimately didn't just get one on a whim. They're a permanent mark on your body, after all, and you shouldn't make the decision lightly. Any respectable tattoo artist will advise you not to get a tattoo unless you are 100 percent sure about making the commitment — and no matter how trendy they are, your first tattoo should never be in a place that is difficult to conceal, like your hands or your face. However, if your mind is set on getting inked, but you're just not quite sure what to get or where to put it... here are some ideas that might inspire you to set up a consultation right now.

by Sandra Roldan

Back Of The Neck

This is the perfect discreet spot for a tat, because you can easily hide it when your hair’s down, and it’s a cool surprise when you put it up.

Instatuado/Instagram

On The Wrist

A small wrist tattoo is easily concealed with jewelry, and can even resemble a bracelet itself.

lacolecionadora/Instagram

Upper Thigh

Your upper thigh is a good canvas for a discreet script tat.

Aurora Luca/Pinterest

Back Of The Ankle

Ankle tattoos will basically only be visible in the spring and summer.

Manon Ladouceur/Pinterest

Side Of The Back

Over the moon for this design and placement, which is easily kept under wraps by a bra.

tattoo-spo/Tumblr

On The Hip

A cute hip tattoo can peek out from the corner of your outfit–or not.

luxilicious/Tumblr

Under Arm

This constellation of Orion tattoo is equally meaningful and discreet.

_laurengaston/Instagram

Back of The Ear

This gorgeous feather tattoo is especially subtle because the shape follows her hairline so well.

Mocha Latte/Pinterest

Small Of The Back

A beautiful, yet not overwhelming, lower back tattoo.

cutelittletattoos/Tumblr

On The Shoulder

The lack of any black lines in this shoulder watercolor tattoo makes this a pretty (and unexpected) pop of color.

nrkreate/Intstagram

The White Ink

The ultimate subtle tattoo trick, white ink has become increasingly popular for discreet, yet gorgeously intricate, tattoos.

nesting-dolls/Tumblr

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