40 Ankle Tattoos That Will Make You Crave Ink

One of the most popular spots to get tattooed is on the ankle. Ankle tattoos are common because the placement is easy to conceal beneath a sock or other articles of clothing should they need to hide away. Further, ankle tattoos can take advantage of the body’s natural shape in cool ways to accentuate it.

From micro tattoos to larger pieces, the sky’s the limit when it comes to ankle tattoos. You might want a dainty detail that sits right on the ankle or something more substantial that cascades from the ankle down to the top of the foot. Whatever the case may be, we have found some of the hottest tattoos on social media to inspire your own ink. Check out these crave-worthy designs!

Take a Look at the Ankle Tattoos Below to Find Out What Will Work Best for You.

Like an Anklet

Ankle Tattoos
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One of the most popular designs for ankle tattoos imagines a sort of anklet that wraps around the ankle. Here, we find a botanical design that looks very fresh and charming. Even though this tattoo is small you can still see the amount of thought and detail that went into it. This tattoo is absolutely a charmer. Who wants flowers?

Cascading Blossoms

Ankle Tattoos
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This shape is a very popular one for ankle tattoos that extend from the ankle to the top of the foot. Notice how the shape accentuates the natural shape of the ankle? You would be wise to do the same. That being said, it’s always up to you what design you want to go for when you get your tattoo.

In Color

Ankle Tattoos
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Black ink tattoos are the most popular but you should explore color if it appeals to you. Notice how vibrant this floral tattoo looks with colors ranging from warm to cool tones. This tattoo is a beautiful display of what tattoo artists can do with color. Isn’t it just wild how lifelike these flowers look? That takes some real talent.

Micro Ankle Tattoo

Ankle Tattoos
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Micro tattoos are a huge trend and tiny ankle tattoos are aplenty these days. Here’s a sweet, little bouquet applied with the finest of lines. You’ll see a few more small tattoos like this as you continue.  This one in particular is pretty minimal but it’s still incredibly beautiful. The fine lines and minimal shading make this a good first.

The Bands

Ankle Tattoos
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If you’d like to go more graphic and abstract, bands around the ankle look spectacular. Simplicity is bliss and you will find proof of that in these ankle tattoos. This tattoo is definitely one that a lot of people might go for or some variation of it. Would you go for this tattoo? We really don’t know if we would.

Matching Evil Eyes

Ankle Tattoos
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Best friend tattoos and matching tattoos are all the rage these days. Evil eye tattoos are also a common choice and friends love getting them together. Matching tattoos like this will prove that you and your best friend have an unbreakable bond. We’d love to have someone who’s down for us like this. That’s a bond that can’t be broken.

What Goes Around

Ankle Tattoos
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“What goes around comes around,” this tattoo informs us. It’s a clever design that makes the most of the placement. No matter how simple these ankle tattoos are, they still make use of the space they’re given. Tattoos like this don’t have to be overcomplicated or overly detailed, and we can see that they all work. It’s up to you!

Be a Unicorn

Ankle Tattoos
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If you’d like a touch of magic, consider whimsical characters like this unicorn for your ankle tattoos. Blue and purple inks make this tattoo design an evocative winner. The style of this tattoo is definitely on the more cartoony side but sometimes those are just the vibes that people are going for. We can’t knock anyone’s choice, why should we?

Mandala Moment

Ankle Tattoos
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Mandala tattoos are one of the biggest tattoo trends today. Front of the ankle tattoos are less common than their side counterparts but they are extremely appealing as you can see in this example. If you want to go big and ornamental, consider something similar. These intricate patterns are sure to catch anyone’s eye when you go out for summer.

Tropical

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Fruit tattoos are just so sweet. This tropical pineapple is made even more appealing by the inclusion of flowers that flank each side. This tattoo has really vibrant colors that make stand out quite a bit. This tattoo is super freaking cute! It’ll have you remembering the summer for years. Would you be getting this tattoo for the fruity vibes?

Plum Blossoms

Ankle Tattoos
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Plum blossoms look altogether explosive in this romantic tattoo that takes floral elements to a whole new level. Notice this familiar shape again. It’s a great placement that’s perfect for side ankle tattoos. This tattoo is colored a vibrant red color that makes it stand out and all the detail pop even more. We can’t imagine how long this took.

A Gentle Reminder

Ankle Tattoos
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“Stay strong,” this letter tattoo advises. Positive sentiments are a hallmark of mental health tattoos and putting one on a letter like this is a really creative and sweet idea.  This tattoo is fairly simple, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a whole lot of meaning placed in this tiny package. Would you go out and get this tattoo?

Celestial

Ankle Tattoos
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Moon tattoos have always been and will always be popular choices. This fine design fins a crescent formed by thousands of little dots that provide texture and intrigue. This celestial-themed tattoo is so beautiful and even though it looks simple, you can see that there’s so much hidden detail packed into every single line. Is this tattoo for you?

Greetings

Ankle Tattoos
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“‘ello my lovely,” this very tidy tattoo reads. A sweet message that brings you joy is an ideal candidate for your ankle tattoo. It’s a nice little tattoo that you would almost miss if you weren’t looking for it. The color and font of this tattoo almost make this tattoo blend in with the person’s skin and freckles. It’s adorable!

RELATED: 25 Small Ankle Tattoo Ideas for the Perfect Dainty Detail

Sketch Mickey

Ankle Tattoos
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How fun is this sketch tattoo of Mickey Mouse? It celebrates drafting and drawing in a very direct way while also appealing to any Disney fan. This little Mickey looks like he is about to start dancing around their ankle at any moment. This tattoo is definitely safe for beginners with a love of Disney. It’s such an adorable tribute.

Flower of Life

Ankle Tattoos
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This amazing geometric design is referred to as the “flower of life” in sacred geometry. The gradient effect helps make this design all the more interesting. A band in this fashion looks excellent wrapped around the ankle. This tattoo is absolutely interesting to look at, and you’d be hard-pressed not to admit that the technique used is very impressive.

Favorite Colors

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“Her favorite colors,” the tattoo artist who shared this image captioned it. Here’s another look at a gradient, this one in spectacular color. A simple bar down the ankle makes for an understated design that makes a big impact. This cute tattoo is a testament to the relationship between the person who got it and whoever “her” might be. Adorable!

Church Fire

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We’re not sure why a church is burning but we were attracted to the bold black ink that makes this design so moody and mysterious. This tattoo is definitely given off storybook vibes, and we are definitely digging it. If you’re going to go with black ink, lean into it. Who knows what conversations this tattoo might start for you.

Dramatic Dragonfly

Ankle Tattoos
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Insects are actually very popular ankle tattoos. Here, we find a gorgeous dragonfly done in the watercolor style that looks like wet paint. The different shades of blue here really make this tattoo stand out even though it’s pretty simple. The way the line art is done on this tattoo makes it really interesting to see. We can see the appeal. 

A Lovely Lotus

Ankle Tattoos
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As you’ve seen, floral designs are wildly popular among ankle tattoos. This warm lotus flower is so delicate and alluring. The lotus is considered a symbol of rebirth and enlightenment.  That’s why they are such popular designs for tattoos today. With how bright and vivid the color on this tattoo is, it’s hard not to want to get it ourselves.

Fun Floral

Ankle Tattoos
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Here’s another botanical design but this one verges on the abstract. Lines of varying thickness give this tattoo an almost 3D look. This tattoo is definitely beautiful even with how simple it is, all the lines come together to create a tattoo that is both a treat to look at, as well as a nice artistic rendition of a flower.

Lucky Ladybug

Ankle Tattoos
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Here’s another bug ankle tattoo that is the cutest little ladybug you ever will see. Ladybugs are considered good luck if they land on you. Perhaps this ankle tattoo was requested for good fortune. It is very small, and possibly very easy to keep hidden away. We just have to ask,  why would you want to. We’re wishing you good fortune!

Very Fine

Ankle Tattoos
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This very, very fine line tattoo of a horse is mesmerizing. It’s a single-line tattoo that’s completed by one, continuous line. Line tattoos are very popular today. A note about lines this fine: they will fade more over time than thicker applications. So, if you want something similar expect the need for a touch-up in your future. It’s worth it.

For the Pup

Ankle Tattoos
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Bring on the dog ankle tattoos! This cute little pup’s face is framed in a paw. It’s a great size and placement for this area. The person who got this tattoo must really love their dog and wanted to take it with them wherever they went. We don’t know where the dog is, but he’ll always be in our hearts.

June Bug

Ankle Tattoos
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You might not have believed us when we told you that bugs were really popular ankle tattoos but we’ve got receipts. Here’s a marvelous June bug that looks very dramatic thanks to the highlighting which makes it look metallic and the watercolor effect that splashes around it. This tattoo is very dynamic. We can’t get over how good it looks!

Straight Fire

Ankle Tattoos
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Band ankle tattoos are as popular as similar ones found on wrists today. This simple flame design is understated yet evocative. If you want to heat things up, go with something similar. Who could resist turning up the heat a little bit everywhere they go? This tattoo might be for you if you like to keep things a bit hotter.

Lego Block

Ankle Tattoos
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Here’s a nostalgic little piece that will, hopefully, not conjure the experience of stepping on a Lego block. Tidy lines and precision make this design a real standout. One single lego is all you need to start building your arsenal of tattoos. And even if this is the only one that you’re planning on getting, it’s definitely a good choice.

Black & Red All Over

Ankle Tattoos
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Here’s a more abstract take on a flower that makes the most of a black and red ink pairing. Red is always an excellent choice for ankle tattoos and tattoos more broadly. If you’d like a bold design, consider something similar. We could look at this tattoo for hours because it’s just that good. The pattern here is simply captivating.

Poppy, Please

Ankle Tattoos
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We’ve got more red ink to share with you that’s on display in this delicate flower tattoo. Red poppy flowers symbolize consolation and remembrance, making them great subject matter for a tattoo you are getting as a memorial piece. Like we said earlier though, you might find yourself getting a touchup because of how delicate and light this tattoo is.

Photorealism

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We find some serious drama in this photorealistic tattoo of a warrior statue from Antiquity. While it might be giving classical vibes, there are some other elements that make the design appear more contemporary. In the background, we find a grey backdrop that forms a right angle. In the foreground, we see a compass that reads as adventurous. So cool!

Hot Dog

Ankle Tattoos
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Sticker tattoos are an emerging trend these days. They are surrounded by a white outline that makes them look like they are floating just above the skin as opposed to being inked on. It’s a cool, fresh effect that playful tattoo enthusiasts can’t get enough of today. This tattoo offers a super neat optical illusion, and isn’t that pretty fun?

Croissants

Ankle Tattoos
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This is not the first example but it’s another great one that showcases matching ankle tattoos. The ankle is an ideal spot to put your best friend tattoo. Is anyone else doing this thing called life for pastry? We love a food tattoo and these cute, little croissants are some of the best we’ve ever seen! These are simply adorable!

In the Lion’s Den

Ankle Tattoos
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If you’re a nature-lover, let your passion for the earth and all of the wild creatures on it inform your tattoo’s design. Lions are such majestic creatures and these felines make for excellent ankle tattoos. We find a fairly realistic-looking tattoo of a lion family but there are some stylish additions that make it even more visually appealing. This rules!

A Cup of Noodles

Ankle Tattoos
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We love the idea of taking everyday objects and elevating them into art. A benign cup of noodles is made so special in this tiny tattoo that imagines a little cat’s face on the cup. It’s offbeat and totally a blast. To inspire your tattoo, try and think of simple, small things that bring you joy. They’ll make great tattoos.

A Lava Lamp

Ankle Tattoos
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Here’s yet another example of something familiar being imagined in ink. How fun is this pink lava lamp that contains “lava” that is tattooed in a hot ombre effect? You don’t have to reinvent the wheel or make a huge commitment with your ankle tattoos. Clean, simplified designs will always make for excellent tattoos. This tattoo can be done quickly.

Salmon

Ankle Tattoos
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 With just black ink, some simple lines, and dots, the artist has brought a stylish salmon tattoo to life. Perhaps salmon is a favorite food or an inspiring creature from the natural world for this person. The great thing about tattoos is that you make the rules. It’s all about your vision and finding an artist who will realize it.

This One’s for the Sneakerheads

Ankle Tattoos
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A tattoo of a Nike Air Jordan? You better believe it! If you have a sneaker collection or just have an affinity for the finest footwear out there, a tattoo that shares your special passion could be the right move. The tattoo artist has done such an excellent job giving the sneaker detail without making it look over-the-top. It’s clean!

Micro Donut

Ankle Tattoos
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We did not mean to bring you a whole bunch of food ankle tattoos but they seem to be a favorite these days. Here’s the world’s tiniest donut looking totally delicious. Playful tattoos are great for the ankle because it’s not the most highly visible part of your body and can be kept under wraps. This tattoo looks absolutely delicious!

The Jewels

Ankle Tattoos
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We find some micro realistic jewels in this fine tattoo that defies belief. We imagine this tattoo was applied with the stick and poke method which is done without a machine, and instead, is completed with a single needle by hand. Isn’t it kind of amazing how much detail artists can achieve? The color of this tattoo is just amazing!

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Foxy

Ankle Tattoos
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Ankle tattoos inspired by nature are always going to be winners. This amazing fox has been shaded with the warmest of golden tones. The artist has shown great restraint and delivers a design that’s simply perfect. Not only that, but this tattoo is also a pretty nice rendition of a more cartoonish-looking fox, all while still looking pretty realistic.

Did these ankle tattoos give you ink envy? If so, you need to make your way to the nearest tattoo parlor to get your very own tattoo. The ankle proves such a special spot for a tattoo as it can be hidden or shown off depending on what you decide to wear. It’s the best placement for small designs with dainty details. If you loved these ankle tattoos but are still wanting more ideas, take a look at the awesome foot tattoos below.

Get a Kick Out of These Amazing Foot Tattoos!

Sun & Moon

Foot Tattoos
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If you are getting foot tattoos on each of your feet, you might consider the classic pairing of sun and moon. As you can see in the above design, the sublime is possible.

“Mom Brain”

Foot Tattoos
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The person who shared this image described the concept as “mom brain.” Can you relate? If you’ve ever had brain fog following pregnancy, you know that it’s very real.

Butterfly

Foot Tattoos
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You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when it comes to foot tattoos. Classic designs like butterflies are beautiful on the top of the foot.

Gripping

Foot Tattoos
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Here’s a gorgeously applied tattoo with clean lines and fantastic shading. The placement on the center of the foot is going to be best for larger foot tattoos.

Cosmic

Foot Tattoos
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Lean into whimsy for foot tattoos that read cute and playful. These tiny cosmic shapes are such a blast and something similar will have you seeing stars.

The Campsite

Foot Tattoos
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One of our favorite foot tattoos on this list depicts a tent pitched in the wilderness with mountains and a night sky in the background. Work with a tattoo artist who has a point of view and you could walk away with a masterpiece on your foot.

A Sailor’s Tale

Foot Tattoos
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A little bit of history is needed to explain the chicken and pig foot tattoos. At one point the people with the most tattoos sailed the seas as a trade. Sailors would get a chicken and a pig tattooed on their feet as a good luck charm that would protect them from drowning. The “logic” behind these foot tattoos was that both farm animals hate being in the water and they would deliver a sailor in the water to shore faster.

Watercolor Wonder

Foot Tattoos
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Watercolor tattoos are a huge trend today. The technique mimics watercolor paint with elements that look like pooling and splatter. This gorgeous nature scene is the perfect example of how it is done right.

Fine Lines

Foot Tattoos
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For a delicate tattoo, request fine lines and light details. The result will be a feminine look that looks like it’s floating on air.

Dots

Foot Tattoos
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Take a close look at this tattoo and you will see that the textural look of it comes from hundreds of tiny dots. Dotwork is an important shading technique that tattoo artists employ to add more visual interest.

Ornamental

Foot Tattoos
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Ornamental foot tattoos are very common today. The bold, black shapes of this tattoo look fancy and sophisticated, almost like a piece of jewelry.

As Above…

Foot Tattoos
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“As above, so below,” this foot tattoo says. It’s a fun design that plays with symmetry to complete the concept described in the phrase.

A Micro-Moment

Foot Tattoos
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Two mega-trends today are micro tattoos and single-line tattoos. We find a tattoo that checks both boxes in this tiny tattoo of elephants that’s been completed with just one line. Stunning!

Love

Foot Tattoos
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Hallmarks of traditional tattooing are simple shapes, bold colors, and thick lines. All three are on display in this neo-traditional design of a swallow, heart, and flower.

RELATED: 26 Foot Tattoos for You to Consider as We Approach Peak Sandal Weather

Foxy

Foot Tattoos
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Wow! Take a look at these huge, matching foot tattoos. We find the most beautiful fox and flower in each. If you want to go big, it totally works on the feet.

Kawaii Avocado

Foot Tattoos
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How cute is this little avocado with a face and rosy cheeks? Favorite foods make for super sweet tattoos when you have the right concept.

Popping Poppy

Foot Tattoos
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Wow! Isn’t this poopy scene with birds so special? The placement and shape of the design are perfect for the top of the foot as the top is wide at the bloom and tapers in toward the toes.

Ready for This Jelly

Foot Tattoos
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Foot tattooed that fall from the ankle to the foot are wildly popular today. This handsome jellyfish is a great example of how you can get a dramatic and breathtaking design that covers both areas.

As a Dream

Foot Tattoos
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One of our favorite foot tattoos on this list finds a bird with some exciting plumage. The color scheme of only cool colors with blues and purples looks fantastic and feels intentional. This design is all about shape as well which turned out fantastically.

More Feathery Fun

Foot Tattoos
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Fancy a tickle? This peacock feather is a gorgeous addition to the top of the foot. Feather tattoos are wildly popular today so know if you get one, you’ll be in very good company.

Castle

Foot Tattoos
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Turning to architecture to inspire your tattoos is always a good idea. In fact, a lot of people choose to get cathedral tattoos. This one’s shape is perfect and accentuates the natural shape of the foot.

She’s a Lady

Foot Tattoos
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Ladybugs are considered a symbol of good luck and due to this, many people choose to have them tattooed on their bodies. This stunning design is unlike any we’ve seen before with bold shapes and an attractive color gradient on the wings.

Meow

Foot Tattoos
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Is this the best cat tattoo you’ve ever seen? We imagine it’s up there! Take a look at how the artist has used white ink to highlight the design and make it really pop. What a dream!

Turtle Time

Foot Tattoos
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Animals and elements from nature are always great ideas for tattoos as they celebrate the natural world and keep us grounded. This turtle looks like it’s swimming in air.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 30 Ankle Tattoos That Will Make You Crave Ink

Stay Golden

Foot Tattoos
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We don’t expect most who are considering foot tattoos are wanting one that goes all the way up the leg but these goldfish were just so handsome we had to share this design with you.

Snail’d It

Foot Tattoos
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We find a snail with crystals and some botanical elements in this charming design. With tattoos, the weirder the better. Express yourself through this art the best way you know how.

Only Peony

Foot Tattoos
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Clean work is dream work when it comes to tattoos. These very clean, bold lines stand out and will also stand the test of time. We also recommend blasting a big flower over your foot as it’s a very cool look.

Abstract

Foot Tattoos
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If you appreciate modern art, consider requesting an abstract design that puts emotion above form. We’re getting liquid vibes from this beautiful tattoo that manages to perfectly balance warm and cool colors.

Berry Queen

Foot Tattoos
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Old-school portrait tattoos also called “lady faces” are still a popular option today and they have been for decades. Simple lines applied with care result in an evocative and timeless look.

Clean

Foot Tattoos
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We leave you with an ornamental design that utilizes just black lines for a fantastic result. This diamond shape is unique but works very well on the top of the foot in this placement. Consider something similar for a showstopping design.

Wow! Did these foot tattoos leave you wanting some ink? We certainly hope you found some of these designs attractive and will consider something similar for your very own tattoo. There’s no right or wrong way to go about foot tattoo designs as long as you’re being true to yourself and expressing your unique point of view.

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