32 BEST ANCHOR TATTOO DESIGNS

If you like the look of an anchor, it can make a great tattoo. It’s more than just a picture of a boat part. Anchors stand for strength, staying strong, and having a steady life. They can show your journey and how you’ve been able to keep going. They can also be a symbol of hope and staying strong in tough times. And they can remind you of people who are important to you. In this article, we’ll show you some cool anchor tattoos that you might like. Let’s get started!

PINK ROSES ANCHOR TATTOO DESIGNS

The vibrant pink in this tattoo immediately captures attention. The bold hues of the flowers contrast strikingly with the sharp lines of the anchor, creating a striking yet harmonious design that feels like a beautiful symphony.

TATTOO SIDE OF NECK

This daring placement on the side of the neck showcases the client’s self-assurance. Confident in her identity, she proudly displays the anchor tattoo.

CHEST TATTOO

The anchor appears to be cradled and supported by the gentle embrace of the roses, creating a sense of calm assurance. Strategically placed on the chest, this tattoo conveys a message of tranquility and steadfastness amid life’s storms.

NECK SMALL ANCHOR TATTOO

This placement is an excellent choice. Positioned on the neck, the tattoo can be easily concealed when the hair is down. However, when the hair is up, it reveals the tattoo, making a deliberate statement. The design remains simple and clean.

INITIAL ANCHOR TATTOO DESIGNS

The client opted for their initials prominently placed beside the anchor, and the tattoo artist was more than happy to accommodate. The choice clearly signifies the person’s significant impact on their life. The meticulous attention to the initials and the elegant script enhance the significance of this tribute tattoo.

COLORFUL ANCHOR TATTOO DESIGNS

This colorful tattoo is bound to grab attention. The vibrant hues breathe new life into the anchor design, making it feel slightly unconventional while still honoring the anchor’s core symbolism of stability.

ANCHOR ON ANKLE

An anchor tattoo on the ankle has traditionally symbolized faith. Its placement allows it to be easily concealed or displayed, depending on the client’s preference.

DELICATE FLOWERS

The charm of this tattoo lies in the delicate flowers and baby’s breath encircling the anchor’s strength and resilience. It beautifully commemorates a special person in the client’s life, with their initials elegantly featured on the anchor.

LUCKY ANCHOR

The placement of this anchor enhances the boldness of the design. The dark hue of the anchor stands out strikingly against the pale canvas. Its exquisite design is sure to make a statement whenever it is displayed.

PALM LEAF ANCHOR

The palm leaf-wrapped anchor evokes a sense of peace and harmony. The shading of both the anchor and leaf enhances their individual beauty while allowing each element to stand out in its own way.

SIMPLE LINES

This tattoo highlights the beauty of line work. The artist’s skill is evident in the intricate details and precision of the lines. While it appears simple, the tattoo truly showcases the artist’s expertise. From the frayed ends of the ropes to the nuanced shading created with lines, this anchor tattoo stands as a testament to their craftsmanship.

TRIBUTE TATTOO

This tribute tattoo is a striking piece that is sure to capture attention. The bold lines create a dramatic backdrop for the anchor, while the skillful shading of the anchor, clouds, and sea evokes the depth of a detailed scene. This courageous design honors a brave friend with its impactful and thoughtful execution.

I AM THE CAPTAIN

This beautifully crafted anchor tattoo bears the powerful message, “I am the captain of my soul.” While the design is simple, it conveys a profound meaning. The anchor symbolizes navigating life’s uncertainties and pursuing what truly resonates with the soul. The design captures this deep message with elegance and clarity.

SHARK AND ANCHOR

This shark and anchor tattoo, rendered in vibrant colors, evokes the image of rugged individuals braving the seas. The shark encircles the anchor, symbolizing the dangers one may encounter at sea. The red accents highlight the blue of the shark, while the brown of the rope and anchor adds a striking contrast, drawing the eye in.

WATCH AND ANCHOR SLEEVE TATTOO

This tattoo captures the essence of time’s relentless passage. The anchor is chained to a pocket watch, hinting at a deeper message. The vivid red of the roses contrasts strikingly with the muted colors of the surrounding elements. The 3D effect of the tattoo makes it stand out on the arm, serving as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time.

SEVER THE ROPE

This tattoo carries both literal and philosophical significance, featuring the words “Sever the rope that holds my anchor.” The design vividly depicts this message with a cut rope hanging from the anchor. The subtle sepia tone enhances the scroll’s effect, emphasizing the profound depth of the message it conveys.

ANCHOR AND ROSES

Nestled among the roses in this tattoo is an anchor adorned with leaves, framed by clouds and stars. The vibrant colors of the flowers contrast with the grey clouds and sky, adding depth to the design. The tattoo conveys a deeper message: when you stay true to yourself and flourish, the world around you brightens. This anchor tattoo goes beyond simplicity, embodying a rich, layered meaning.

STRAIGHT FORWARD ANCHOR TATTOO

This minimalist tattoo makes a powerful statement. By incorporating initials into the design, it honors the person who provides her with a sense of safety and belonging. The beveled shading adds depth and interest to the anchor, while the 3D effect brings the tattoo vividly to life.

NAUTICAL TATTOO

Conquer the stormy seas with this rugged nautical tattoo. It captures the challenges of ocean voyages and evokes the era of life on the high seas. Featuring a meaningful name in elegant script, this tattoo honors a man’s seafaring life while cherishing the family he holds dear back on shore.

ELEGANT TATTOO ON THE BACK

This minimalist tattoo is placed at the base of the nape, just above the spine. It’s a subtle yet stylish choice for a lady, though you might need to tie up your hair to showcase it fully. This design is ideal if you’re looking for a simple and elegant anchor tattoo idea.

SOLID ANCHOR ON THE CAL

This tattoo features a sophisticated design with a wooden stock and metallic shank. A rope extends from the eye of the anchor, threading through the shank to the hooks. The elegant detail of this design looks striking on the calf.

WORD ANCHOR DESIGN

This anchor tattoo is a beautiful expression of love, featuring the words dedicated to a special someone: “You be the anchor that keeps my feet on the ground, I’ll be the wings that keep your heart in the clouds.” It’s a unique and meaningful design that stands out among anchor tattoo ideas.

3D WOODEN ANCHOR

This tattoo exudes elegance and sophistication, featuring a wooden design that extends from the stock, through the shank, and to the hooks. While the hooks retain a sharp, metallic appearance, they seamlessly blend with the wooden design, enhancing the overall refinement of the tattoo.

SIN IN THE ANCHOR DESIGN

This tattoo features an elegant blue shank extending towards the hooks, with a solid wooden stock design. A rope wraps around the anchor, adding detail. The text “Sin In The Anchor” is rendered in refined calligraphy, showcasing the skill of the tattoo artist.

3D ARM TATTOO

This tattoo features a 3D design with a wooden stock and metallic shank and hooks. The ink blend gives the anchor a shiny, realistic appearance, creating a classy look on the inner arm.

WEED DESIGN COURAGE TATTOO

This tattoo features a weed design at the top, with the words “Sink or Swim” running along the shank. The hooks and base are designed with a stylish color scheme. The combination of the weed and text is intended to inspire confidence and resilience in the wearer.

ANCHOR IN THE FLESH TATTOO

This unique anchor tattoo features a design where the hook appears to penetrate the skin. Rendered in black ink with a touch of red at the hook to mimic blood, the tattoo creates a striking visual effect. The simplicity of the design contrasts with the bold illusion of the hook digging through the flesh.

ANCHOR AT THE BACK OF THE EAR

This classy tattoo is placed at the back of the ear. It features a ring at the top of the anchor and petal-like designs on the hooks. The stock is rendered in a wooden brown, while the shank is black. The hooks and base are accented with colors, adding a distinctive touch to the design.

SIMPLE ANCHOR ON THE THUMB

This simple anchor tattoo, featuring a rope, is placed on the thumb. Its unique yet straightforward design captures the essence of an anchor tattoo. It’s one of the easiest and most meaningful anchor tattoo ideas to consider.

SPLASHED ANCHOR DESIGN ON ARM

The splashing ink around the blank anchor design makes this tattoo stand out. On the biceps, the ink appears as splattered dots, while it transitions into a spilling effect towards the wrist. This design offers a classy look for a man’s arm and is sure to be a favorite among tattoo artists.

MUSICAL ANCHOR DESIGN

This anchor tattoo features a simple design combined with a classic musical note. Its minimal details and lack of coloring make it an ideal choice for a guy seeking a straightforward yet distinctive anchor tattoo.

ANCHOR TATTOO DESIGN WITH BIRDS

This classy anchor tattoo features a detailed yet understated design. Positioned slightly above the right breast, the anchor is connected by a rope that extends toward the cleavage. The rope then transitions into small birds that stretch across to the left shoulder, adding an elegant touch to the overall design.

CONCLUSION

The best anchor tattoo is the one that resonates with you personally. Consider your own experiences, values, and style when choosing your design. With countless options available, there’s sure to be an anchor tattoo that perfectly captures your unique spirit.

35 BEAUTIFUL TATTOOS ON SHOULDER FOR WOMEN THAT WILL LOOK AMAZING ON YOU

The shoulder, often considered alluring and elegant, is frequently an ideal location to express personal style through tattoos. Taking advantage of the ample space on the shoulder, individuals can choose between large and impressive designs or opt for small and delicate tattoos, creating a wonderful contrast within the negative space.  So ahead, find 35 shoulder tattoo examples to start your search for your next tattoo. Read on!

WHIMSICAL BLACK DRAGON SHOULDER TATTOO

Dragons hold varied meanings in different cultures. While the Western perspective may view dragons as symbols of evil, in Eastern cultures, they represent good luck and royalty.   This tattoo on the shoulder blade design, with the dragon’s tail winding along the arm, beautifully occupies the shoulder blade and sleeve. Despite its imposing presence, the tattoo retains its femininity and elegance through the graceful curves of the dragon’s body and whiskers.

VINE TATTOO FOR WOMEN

Vines are frequently used as complementary elements in floral tattoos, but they possess their own inherent beauty and significance. Vines naturally climb onto other plants or walls, seeking sunlight and water, symbolizing a spirit of resilience and the innate desire to flourish. Tattoos featuring vines, such as this one, elegantly extend and coil around the body, making them well-suited for placement on shoulders, arms, and ankles. Additionally, they offer a creative way to connect and enhance existing small tattoos, crafting a cohesive and unique piece of art.

STUNNING FLOWERS TATTOO ON THE SHOULDER

Every flower and color carries distinct emotional significance. Regardless of whether one is experiencing joy or sadness, there exists a flower that resonates with their emotions. Explore our latest interview with Vanessa to delve into her insights on selecting the perfect tattoos that uniquely reflect individual sentiments.

CRANE SHOULDER TATTOO FOR WOMEN

Cranes carry profound symbolism in various cultures. These birds consistently maintain their poised stance, with heads held high and an unwavering balance. When cranes unfurl their wings, they gracefully soar through the sky, resembling gliders poised to conquer the heavens. This avian symbolism is often associated with elegance, calmness, and balance. If the significance of crane tattoos resonates with you, placing one tattoo for shoulder back can be a stylish and meaningful choice.

BLOOMING

Tropaeolum, commonly known as Nasturtium, is a symbol of victory and triumph. The blossoming of this flower is emblematic of conquest. This shoulder tattoo, adorned with the delicate bloom, may initially appear as a feminine floral design. However, the underlying meaning of the flower transforms the tattoo into a powerful statement, reflecting the wearer’s strength and confidence.

EVERGLOW TATTOO


Capturing the essence of Coldplay’s “Everglow” in permanent ink, this shoulder tattoo immortalizes the song’s lyrics. If you have a particular song that holds profound meaning or provides strength in your life, opting for lyric tattoos can be a poignant and fitting choice.

SIMPLE BLACK AND WHITE SUNFLOWER TATTOO

A meaningful tattoo is one that echoes our sentiments or narrates our personal stories, much like sunflower tattoos. Sunflowers represent the pursuit of happiness, positivity, and hope, enduring values that withstand the test of time. Even when rendered in black, a sunflower tattoo continues to exude warmth and energy. Sunflowers are an ideal choice for women seeking something both meaningful and simple among the array of shoulder tattoos available for women.

FLOWER SHOULDER TATTOO

Shoulder tattoos often feature flower designs, and their popularity can be attributed to their beauty and versatility. With a plethora of flower options, each carrying its distinct meaning, floral ink typically symbolizes beauty, love, and life. The specific bloom you choose can add nuanced symbolism; for instance, the gladiolus is linked to family, while the peony signifies good fortune and honor.

TIGER TATTOO

A tiger tattoo is an excellent choice if you desire a statement piece rich in symbolism. This formidable predator is symbolic of strength and knowledge, and it’s also associated with freedom and independence, given its position at the top of the natural food chain. Choosing the shoulder as the canvas for this design is ideal, as it provides enough space for intricate detailing. Whether tattooed on its own or combined with other elements, a tiger tattoo offers a powerful and meaningful design option.

LION SHOULDER TATTOO

The lion, known as the king of the jungle, is a stunning yet formidable creature, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a tattoo symbolizing courage and bravery. While small lion-inspired designs can be appealing, opting to ink your shoulder allows for a larger, more intricate piece that beautifully captures the essence of this regal creature.

SKULL SHOULDER TATTOO

The skull, universally acknowledged as a symbol tied to life and death, holds diverse meanings for individuals. Some interpret it with a darker undertone, while others see it positively as a symbol of strength and resilience in overcoming life’s challenges. Regardless of the personal significance you attribute to the skull, it serves as an intriguing and attention-grabbing choice for a shoulder tattoo. You have the option to enhance your design with additional elements like flowers or butterflies, or you can opt for a bold and impactful statement without incorporating extra images. 

CLOCK SHOULDER TATTOO

Clock tattoos enjoy popularity due to their rich symbolism, offering a design open to diverse interpretations. The timepiece serves as a poignant representation of life and death, making it an ideal choice for those who contemplate these aspects frequently. It acts as a poignant reminder of life’s transient nature, urging individuals to embrace it fully. For some women, a clock tattoo serves as a tribute to a departed loved one or commemorates a significant moment in their lives. 

COMPASS SHOULDER TATTOO

The circular compass shape is ideal for placement on the shoulder, providing ample space for the intricate details often associated with this navigational tool. The compass tattoo serves as a symbol of direction and purpose, making it a compelling choice. Adding a meaningful quote, name, time, or date further personalizes the body art, creating a deeply resonant and individualized design.

CROSS SHOULDER TATTOO

Individuals who hold their faith dear often find the concept of a cross tattoo appealing. Within Christianity, the cross is frequently associated with Jesus Christ and his sacrificial act for the greater good of humanity. Its simple shape lends itself well to various tattooing styles, allowing for both large and small designs. Enhance the design by incorporating your favorite psalm or verse, or choose to include additional imagery like a dove or prayer beads to make the tattoo even more personal and meaningful.

FLORAL DRAGON SHOULDER TATTOO

Dragons are exceptionally well-suited for shoulder tattoos, given their curvaceous bodies and tails that can elegantly extend towards the collarbone or down the back, similar to this particular design. Opting for a black dragon against scarlet red flowers creates a vivid contrast that enhances the overall visual impact of the tattoo.

DREAM CATCHER SHOULDER TATTOO

A dream catcher tattoo can be a stunning addition when placed across your shoulder. This design lends itself well to complementing other images, allowing for the creation of an extensive and intricate tattoo if desired. Beyond the visual intricacy, the beauty of the dreamcatcher lies in its symbolism. Originating from Native American culture, this talisman serves as a sign of protection, intended to ward off bad dreams and negativity.

EAGLE SHOULDER TATTOO

An eagle tattoo has the versatility to be large and imposing, with wings spanning the chest and arm, or it can take on a more abstract or smaller form. Women seeking a symbol of courage, resilience, and freedom are often drawn to this design, finding it to be a positive reminder to live life to its fullest potential and to appreciate each day. Additionally, the majestic bird can carry spiritual connotations, with its keen eyesight sometimes associated with the all-seeing eye.

ROSE ON THE SHOULDER TATTOO

Traditionally, roses symbolize love and passion, while snakes are often associated with darkness, danger, or mystery. Although both snakes and roses are frequently featured in tattoo designs, combining these two elements with broad coverage, as seen in this example, is less common. The artist skillfully maintained clean lines, preventing the snake tattoo from feeling overpowering despite its large size.

ALWAYS ON MY MIND SHOULDER QUOTE TATTOO

The expression “always on my mind forever in my heart” is most commonly a tribute to someone who has passed away. It signifies that the person, whether a loved one, friend, or mentor, holds a permanent place in the recipient’s thoughts and emotions. The tattoo can also represent the act of carrying someone with you through life’s challenges. It’s a source of strength and a reminder to keep moving forward while honoring the memory of someone special.

HAMSA HAND SHOULDER TATTOO

The Hamsa hand, deeply ingrained in Islamic and Egyptian culture, serves as a spiritual symbol. This hand features an eye in the center of the palm and, uniquely, two symmetrical thumbs. Its purpose is to provide protection to the wearer from evil, symbolized by the eye. Despite its religious origins, the Hamsa hand tattoo has gained global popularity. Whether opting for a simple design with clean lines, as seen in this example, or experimenting with additional details, the Hamsa hand’s versatility makes it well-suited for various placements, including the shoulder.

SCORPIO FOR SHOULDER TATTOO 

What better way to showcase your zodiac sign than through a zodiac tattoo? Scorpios take pride in their sign, and rightfully so. With their mysterious, intense, passionate, and intelligent nature, they command respect. A shoulder tattoo, exemplified by this design, serves as a subtle warning not to underestimate or mess with Scorpio women.

BUTTERFLY SHOULDER TATTOO

The butterfly, a captivating insect, is frequently associated with transformation and change. In tattoo art, it can be depicted to symbolize a phase of personal growth or as an emblem of embracing the new while letting go of the past. Additionally, the butterfly is linked to notions of freedom and beauty. Their versatility extends to various placement options, such as the shoulder, and they harmonize well with additional images like skulls or flowers, enhancing the depth of their symbolic meaning.

ANGEL SHOULDER TATTOO

An angel tattoo serves as a symbolic messenger from God, embodying the delicate balance between heaven and earth and offering a means to express one’s spirituality. Additionally, it can represent themes of love or loss, often serving as a tribute to someone who has passed away or as a celebration of a romantic relationship. Regardless of the specific symbolism one associates with these angelic beings, they make for charming tattoos, and the shoulder serves as a fantastic and fitting placement for such a design.

TRIBAL SHOULDER TATTOO

Tribal tattoos draw inspiration from diverse cultures but have evolved into more of a technique characterized by thick, black lines that dynamically flow across the body. The specific meaning behind tribal designs can vary based on cultural influences, but when opting for a more stylized approach, these tattoos are often associated with symbols of protection and strength.

CELTIC SHOULDER TATTOO

Your Celtic heritage through a tattoo is a meaningful way to pay homage to your roots. Celtic culture is rich with symbols and creatures, such as trees and specific animals, that held great importance. Among the popular choices in body art are knotted designs, which beautifully celebrate the profound connection between humanity and nature. Depending on your chosen ink, these intricate knots can symbolize family, eternal life, or everlasting love, offering a versatile and deeply personal expression of your Celtic identity.

MAORI SHOULDER TATTOO

Tribal designs serve as a meaningful way to pay homage to a specific culture and heritage, with Maori tattoos acting as expressions of individual identity. Each design within Maori culture holds unique significance, and the placement of these tattoos is crucial, with the head considered the most sacred spot. However, there are others that have been mass-produced and can be a respectful way to celebrate the culture without causing offense. Prior to getting inked, thorough research is advised to ensure the chosen design is appropriate and culturally sensitive.

POLYNESIAN SHOULDER TATTOO

Polynesian tattoos carry deep cultural significance, with each design serving as a narrative. Opting for such body art can be a meaningful way to honor your heritage or express admiration for the Polynesian culture. However, it is crucial to conduct thorough research beforehand to avoid unintended disrespect or cultural misappropriation. Polynesian ink allows for personal expression, enabling individuals to showcase aspects of their personality or elements that hold significance to them.

COLORFUL SHOULDER TATTOO

While black ink remains a common choice for tattoos, vibrant and colorful pieces hold their unique allure. In general, opting for colored designs may entail higher costs and longer sessions, but it offers a beautiful means of bringing your chosen ink to life, creating a striking contrast against your skin tone. For instance, a yellow rose signifies friendship and joy, while a pink one represents gratitude and affection. Meanwhile, a red bloom indicates passion and love.

GEOMETRIC SHOULDER TATTOO

Geometric tattoos are characterized by the use of shapes and lines in their creation. This approach to body art has gained popularity in recent years and serves as a versatile technique suitable for both large and small designs. Geometric tattoos can range from simple and minimalistic to intricate with futuristic aesthetics. Depending on the chosen design, it can carry significant symbolism or simply be an aesthetically appealing piece of art.

STAR SHOULDER TATTOO

The simplicity of the star’s shape makes it a highly popular choice for tattoos, especially for those considering their first ink. It’s versatile, allowing for small and straightforward designs or larger, more intricate ones. A star commonly symbolizes protection and guidance. Additionally, many women opt to include an image of the moon in their star tattoos, representing femininity and beauty.

KOI FISH SHOULDER TATTOO FOR PISCES

Koi fish and mermaids are excellent choices for shoulder tattoos among women due to their graceful curves. The tails of these designs can elegantly extend from the collarbone down to the arm, creating a dynamic and flowing visual effect.

GIRLY RIBBON SHOULDER TATTOO FOR WOMEN

Looking for something cute and feminine? Consider a ribbon tied onto the skin. This vintage design showcases the versatility of a ribbon tattoo. By making adjustments to the shape, colors, and fabric, you can create a unique piece that complements your skin tone and aligns with your personal aesthetics.

LOVE BIRDS TATTOO

This bird tattoo on the shoulder is a perfect combination of meaningful, cute, and beautiful—everything a hopeless romantic might desire. Love birds symbolize a lasting, pure love, making it an ideal choice for an individual or even as a matching tattoo idea.

RELIGIOUS SHOULDER TATTOO

Tattoos serve as a meaningful reminder of what holds significance in your life. For individuals with strong religious convictions, body art becomes a way to celebrate their faith or serve as a constant reminder to live according to a particular ethos. There are numerous options when it comes to choosing images for your ink, including a cross, rosary beads, or praying hands. The shoulder is an excellent placement choice for these tattoos, offering enough space for intricate detailing and allowing your body art to truly come to life.

SHOULDER AND CHEST TATTOO

Opting for a large, detailed design on your shoulder across your chest is a beautiful choice. This placement provides ample space, allowing you to select from a variety of designs. Floral-inspired pieces stand out as particularly popular among women, given their aesthetic appeal, femininity, and often rich symbolism.

CONCLUSION

We have provided 35 tattoo ideas for women’s shoulders, drawing inspiration from various symbols, each carrying a special meaning. These shoulder tattoos are designed with intricate and beautiful lines, though it’s worth noting that the shoulder area can be a bit painful. We hope that this article will offer you a variety of choices and help you find a tattoo design that suits your preferences and personal style.