10 MALE SIDE BODY TATTOO IDEAS 

Side body tattoos for men are always striking due to the ample space they offer, making it an ideal canvas for both large and small designs. This placement provides a smooth, expansive area where artists can craft intricate, meaningful artwork.

One of the great advantages of side body tattoos is their versatility – they can be easily concealed with clothing or proudly displayed when desired.

In this post, we’ll explore eleven tattoo ideas for the male side body, catering to a variety of styles and tastes, whether you’re drawn to bold, expansive pieces or more subtle, minimalistic designs.

SAILING SHIP TATTOO

A timeless sailing ship adorns the side body, its masts towering, ready to brave the winds and waves. This tattoo symbolizes a love for adventure and the open sea. The intricate details of ropes and sails make it a masterpiece that represents a journey of discovery. Perfect for those who view life as an ongoing voyage.

PERCHED BIRD TATTOO

A bird perched peacefully on a barren branch captures a quiet, reflective moment. With feathers so lifelike, it exudes a sense of calm and observation. This tattoo could symbolize freedom or the perspective gained from distance, much like a bird watching from above.

SLITHERING SNAKE TATTOO

A snake coils gracefully along the side, its scales shaded to give a sense of movement. Snakes are often symbols of transformation and renewal, shedding their skin for a fresh start. This tattoo suits someone who embraces change and the ongoing process of personal rebirth.

BARREN TREE TATTOO

A barren tree, its branches stretching across the side, represents resilience and strength. With no leaves but deep roots, it stands tall, symbolizing a person’s growth and the fortitude needed to weather life’s challenges.

MAJESTIC LION TATTOO

The face of a roaring lion comes to life on the side, its flowing mane aligning with the body’s curves. A symbol of power, courage, and authority, this tattoo is perfect for those who wish to embody the strength and leadership of the king of the jungle.

FLORAL VINE TATTOO

A delicate floral vine winds gracefully across the side, with soft black and gray flowers and leaves. This tattoo represents growth, beauty, and the milestones of personal development, with each bloom symbolizing a significant moment or memory.

SHARK TATTOO

A trio of sharks glides down the side, their streamlined forms captured in fine detail. Sharks symbolize strength, survival, and efficiency. This tattoo is ideal for someone who resonates with the shark’s powerful and commanding presence in the ocean.

SWALLOW TATTOO

A flock of swallows takes flight along the side, their wings spread wide. Traditionally linked to sailors, swallows symbolize hope and the safe return home. This tattoo reflects the desire for adventure while cherishing the importance of returning to where one feels most loved.

BARREN TREE TATTOO

A leafless tree, its branches and roots intricately detailed across the side, stands as a symbol of endurance and growth through change. It may also represent a deep connection to family or personal roots, enduring through the seasons of life.

HOURGLASS TATTOO

An hourglass with intertwining strands of a DNA helix represents the passage of time and the complexity of life. The shading adds depth, suggesting that the wearer is conscious of the fleeting nature of time and the intricate connections that make up their existence.

22 BEST LEG AND THIGH TATTOOS FOR WOMEN

The legs and thighs are often overlooked as prime spots for tattoos, but they offer incredible potential. With plenty of space and the natural movement of the leg, designs can truly come to life. Each area has its own appeal—thighs provide a larger canvas with more flexibility, while calves are smaller and more structured. Pain level is also a factor to consider; thighs tend to be less painful, whereas the shin is one of the most sensitive areas to get inked.

Before booking your tattoo appointment, it’s essential to research the best design and placement for your vision—along with how much pain you’re willing to handle. If you’re unsure where to begin or have too many ideas to choose from, here are 22 stunning leg and thigh tattoos to

OUTER ANKLE TATTOO

A face crafted from leaves on the outer part of the leg, just above the ankle. This placement allows for easy concealment under pants if desired.

SIMPLE DOTS LEG TATTOO

A series of colorful rainbow dots on the leg. This minimalistic approach makes a subtle yet striking statement.

WRAPPED VINES LEG TATTOO

A vine design that elegantly wraps around the lower leg, enhancing the natural movement of the body. The tattoo features consistent line thickness and minimal detailing. 

UPPER THIGH TATTOO

Large floral designs placed on the upper thigh, creating a sense of intimacy and beauty. This delicate line work is perfect for showcasing.

INTRICATELY DETAILED LEG TATTOO

A delicate strip tattoo located on the back of the calf, focusing attention on the intricate design within a small area.

ABOVE-THE-INNER-ANKLE TATTOO

A small tattoo featuring figures holding hands in a heart shape, placed above the inner ankle for an intimate touch. This spot is also easy to conceal.
 

BERRY BRANCH LEG TATTOO

A vibrant design that incorporates berries, utilizing bright colors and minimal black lines for a fresh look.

MANDALA LEG TATTOO

A mandala tattoo that fits beautifully on the thigh, allowing for intricate details and curves to complement the body’s shape.

SLIGHTLY MATCHING LEG TATTOOS

Two whimsical flower tattoos on the back of each calf. They are similar yet unique, adding character to your leg.
 

NEGATIVE SPACE LEG TATTOO

A lower calf tattoo featuring branches with negative space leaves and blooms, showcasing intricate detailing without being overly large.

HORIZONTAL LANDSCAPE LEG TATTOO

A minimalistic single-line tattoo of a landscape, disrupting the leg’s shape for a striking effect.
 

BACK-OF-THE-ANKLE LEG TATTOO

An interlocking crown tattoo placed on the back of the ankle. While slightly painful, it provides a unique and hidden placement.

ROLLER SKATES THIGH TATTOO

A playful tattoo of roller skates on the thigh, perfect for skaters or those who appreciate the sport.

ORNATE LEG TATTOO

An ornate pattern that flows from the ankle up to the lower calf, using varying line thicknesses for an eye-catching effect.

HIDDEN THIGH TATTOO

A small, delicate rose hip tattoo located in the middle of the thigh, creating a striking contrast with a minimalistic design. 

SUN-AND-MOON THIGH TATTOO

A sun and moon tattoo on the thigh that highlights the natural curves, allowing for various detailing options.
 

ABOVE-THE-ANKLE TATTOO

An ornate eye tattoo placed above the ankle, perfect for peeking out from jeans or socks. Clean lines in black ink create a standout design.

SINGLE FLOWER THIGH TATTOO

A large flower bud surrounded by leaves and smaller buds, designed to complement the shape of the thigh for a minimalistic appearance.

PHRASE THIGH TATTOO

A quote tattoo in a script font on the side of the thigh, making use of the area’s size to enhance its elegance and intricacy.

PASTEL LEG TATTOO

A delicate tattoo featuring pastel colors, emphasizing daintiness without the use of black lines.

HAND-DRAWN LEG TATTOO

A TV-themed tattoo on the hip, characterized by consistent line thickness and a hand-drawn aesthetic.
 

ANKLE CRAWL TATTOO

A thick tattoo design featuring diamonds and stars that wraps around the lower legs and feet, maintaining a cohesive look with simple details.