With roots tracing back to some of the earliest American tattoos for men, rose tattoos remain a timeless and popular choice worldwide. There’s something undeniably captivating about a rose tattoo; it’s delicate yet bold, making it just as fitting for a Harley-riding biker as it is for a Bay Area hipster.
Whether placed on the inner forearm or more daringly on the neck, rose tattoos are versatile enough to look great nearly anywhere on the body. Their creative potential is as expansive as their appeal.
From the classic yellow Sailor Jerry rose to designs featuring withered roses paired with daggers, skulls, and snakes, this collection of ink is sure to spark inspiration and help you discover the perfect rose tattoo for your next session in the chair.
BLACK ROSE TATTOO
While roses are typically symbols of romantic love, the meaning shifts when darker tones are used. Black rose tattoos often symbolize heartbreak, death, or other complex emotions, making them stand out with their boldness.
SMALL ROSE TATTOO
Sometimes, less is more. A small rose tattoo, carefully placed, can pack a punch in its simplicity. Its subtle beauty and powerful meaning make it a perfect choice for those who prefer minimalist ink.
ROSE TATTOO WITH A NAME
For an added layer of personal significance, a rose tattoo paired with a name is a timeless way to express love. A tribute to a partner or loved one, this design symbolizes devotion and affection.
MONEY ROSE TATTOO
For those whose heart beats for wealth, the money rose tattoo is a perfect blend of symbolic love for cash and classic floral design, making it a bold statement of where your true devotion lies.
TRADITIONAL ROSE TATTOO
Rooted in history, traditional rose tattoos have been inked by sailors for centuries. Their bold outlines and rich history make them an excellent choice for anyone seeking a classic, timeless design.
SIMPLE ROSE TATTOO
Sometimes all it takes is a few well-placed lines to convey a powerful message. Simple rose tattoos exude understated elegance while still carrying the deep meaning that makes them such an enduring design.
BLUE ROSE TATTOO
The blue rose stands apart from its red counterpart, symbolizing mystery, fantasy, and the unknown. Its cool tones make it a unique and imaginative twist on a traditional design.
ROSE TATTOO DRAWING
While many roses are inked in vibrant hues, a black-and-grey tattoo that mimics pencil drawing can offer a sophisticated, artistic take on the classic flower, proving that sometimes, less color can mean more.
YELLOW ROSE TATTOO
Yellow roses represent friendship, loyalty, and joy. First popularized by Sailor Jerry, this alternative to the traditional red rose tattoo continues to captivate with its cheerful, positive symbolism.
SNAKE AND ROSE TATTOO
Combining two symbols of power and mystery, snake and rose tattoos are rich in meaning and open to endless creative possibilities. Together, they tell a story of passion, danger, and transformation.
COMPASS ROSE TATTOO
A compass rose tattoo often symbolizes direction and guidance. When paired with roses, it can signify love as the guiding force in the wearer’s life, leading them through both challenges and triumphs.
SKULL AND ROSE TATTOO
The union of love and death is beautifully depicted in skull and rose tattoos. These designs represent the duality of human existence, commemorating both the beauty of life and the inevitability of death.
ROSE VINE TATTOO
For those who want more than just a single bloom, rose vine tattoos offer a dynamic design. The creeping vines add movement and complexity, creating a striking visual that flows seamlessly across the skin.
ROSE AND BUTTERFLY TATTOO
The combination of a rose and butterfly is a natural fit, symbolizing beauty and transformation. These two elements complement each other perfectly, representing life’s delicate balance of growth and change.
DEAD ROSE TATTOO
A dead rose tattoo serves as a poignant reminder of lost love, heartbreak, or a love that has faded away. This design speaks to those who want to memorialize emotional pain, marking a chapter of their life with a powerful symbol of sorrow.