Side rib tattoos have become wildly popular among women looking for a sexy, feminine tattoo option. The curvature of the ribs provides an elegant placement for art, allowing you to get creative with your design. Rib tattoos range from simple, minimalist pieces to intricate, flowing works of art.
Opting for a side rib tattoo gives you the option to show it off in a bikini or crop top, or easily conceal it under clothing for a more discreet look. The ribs are also considered a relatively low pain area for getting inked, making them ideal for first-timers. When considering your rib tattoo design, floral, mandala, quotes, and dainty scripts tend to complement the area beautifully.
I’ve included over 100 gorgeous side rib tattoo ideas below for inspiration, with both delicate and bold designs. Scroll through the photos to get ideas for your next meaningful or simply beautiful rib tattoo. Costs can vary greatly, but expect to pay $100 – $500+ based on the size, detailing, and overall artistry.
Black & White Side Rib Tattoos
1. Rose Side Tattoo
Rose side rib tattoo is a common go-to by a lot of women. Show off your feminine side with this design.
2. Butterfly Side Rib Tattoo
A butterfly rib tattoo will show that you’re always ready for adventure and that you want to spread your wings!
3. Side Rib Tattoos Female Edition
This giant side stomach rib tattoo will take you 4-5 hours to complete.
4. Leaf Side Rib Tattoo
Sid rib flower tattoo will suit younger women who are natural adrenaline junkies, driven by nature and tons of questions.
5. Small Side Tattoo
This small spiritual side rib tattoo will look feminine and cute on any woman.
6. Side Rib Tattoos Ideas
Go for this cross-side rib tattoo if you are a believer and religious person.
7. Elephant Side Rib Tattoo
Elephant side rib tattoo can represent your deep emotional side, connection to your closest ones, and your family.
8. Family Portrait Side Rib Tattoo
A portrait side rib tattoo will look amazing on women who are close to their family and siblings.
9. Whale Side Rib Tattoo For Women
This whale rib tattoo will show your mysterious side and your will to explore the deep paths of life.
10. Quote Side Rib Tattoo
The side rib quote tattoo will look great if done properly and with the right font. ”Dive deeper, dream bigger” holds so much power, perfect for perfectionists.
11. Black & White Side Rib Tattoo
This moon and star side rib tattoo in black ink will take 3-6 hours to complete.
12. Floral Side Tattoo Design
Some women prefer flower tattoos. Are you one of them?
13. Baby Feet Side Rib Tattoo
Go for this small side rib tattoo if you are a mom who wants to show love for her little baby.
14. Black Ink Wolf Side Rib Tattoo
This giant stomach and side rib tattoo will take 7-8 hours to get.
15. Side Rib Tattoo Vertical Idea
If you fully trust your tattoo artist and you like this print why not commit to it and give it a go with this floral beauty?
16. Cat & Moon Side Rib Tattoo
This side rib tattoo shows your connection and love for your pet, as well as spiritual and celestial elements.
17. Small Moon Side Rib Tattoo
If you are a true moon child this tattoo will suit you.
18. Angel Side Rib Tattoo
Women who believe in angels or those who are paying respect to someone important will enjoy this side tattoo.
19. Black Small Flower Side Rib Tattoo
A small floral tattoo on the side represents your calm-headed and relaxed approach to life.
20. Side Rib Tattoos For Nature Lovers
If you are an animal lover this tattoo will look amazing on you!
21. Quote Side Rib Tattoo
With this tattoo, you will show that nobody is perfect.
22. Black Jelly Fish Tattoo on Side Rib
If you like sea creatures, this tattoo will suit you.
23. Roses & Snake Side Rib Tattoo
It is time for a change. Go for this impressive design to get a quirky and amazing tattoo.
24. Foliage Side Rib Tattoo
A minimal foliage tattoo will be a perfect choice if you want to get a small tattoo.
25. Rose Side Rib Tattoo
Here is a small but detailed rosework here. There is no doubt that it will suit you.
26. Cloud Side Rib Tattoo
This one may seem simple, but these lines look super cool.
27. Ornamental Foo Dog Side Rib Tattoo
Why don’t you get an ornamental foo dog design if you are a fan of Asian tradition?
28. Mermaid Side Rib Tattoo
Do you have a passion for mermaids? Maybe it’s high time to get a fantastic mermaid tattoo.
29. Black Dragon Tattoo on Side Rib
This wingless dragon looks very elegant. It is sure that your body will shine with it.
30. Snake & Sword Side Rib Tattoo
Even though this tattoo is a tiny one, these details and meticulous work make it an art piece.
31. Humpback Whale Side Rib Tattoo
A large marine mammal, a humpback whale, is depicted in this tattoo. It is designed in a realistic depiction so that it looks real with all these shading effects. Since it is a huge animal, this tattoo is not small but it carries a great symbolism of power, grace, and beauty.
32. Swallows on Side Rib
The swallows symbolize a sailor’s return home from sea and are said to bring good luck. Thus, two swallows flying with one another are a great idea for a side rib tattoo. The swallow above suits very well with its location because its wings are placed under the boob in a nice way. Give it a shot to this couple.
33. Couple Outline Tattoo on Side Rib
The outline tattoo technique is based on drawing the outer edges of the desired design without any ink filling it in. Above, the couple’s outline tattoo is based on an actual photograph. If you have a favorite photo with your loved one and want to wear that moment permanently on your body, you can go for it.
34. Valkyrie Side Rib Tattoo
This side rib tattoo shows a Valkyrie, a female warrior from Norse mythology. Depicted with long flowing hair, armor, and weapons, the Valkyrie will make you feel strong and powerful. Plus, the ornamental details on her armor add a great touch to the tattoo.
35. World Map Side Rib Tattoo
If you are a traveler, we have a great tattoo idea for you. The world map tattoo symbolizes a love for travel, adventure, and a desire to explore the world. Also, this tattoo is quite plain because just a simple outline is used to create it and its size is not big. Let’s show your love of traveling to everyone!
36. Butterfly Side Rib Tattoo
These three butterflies are adorable, aren’t they? They have detailed wing patterns that consist of geometric lines and we can see one of them from the frontal view and the others are seen from the left and right sides. The sparkles around them add an extra layer of glamour and femininity to the beautiful design.
37. Dotwork Deer Side Rib Tattoo
Minimalist tattoo lovers will adore this side rib tattoo a lot. It features a deer silhouette made up of tiny dots, which indicates that a dotwork technique is used. This tattoo looks incredible along with the tiny dots that narrow down from the horns. Plus, you can easily conceal or show it off because of its placement.
38. Positive Side Rib Tattoo
Positive vibes only! The tattoo “smile” with a flower under it is a simple and positive message that encourages the wearer to maintain a cheerful outlook and to appreciate the beauty in life. You can also cover it easily since it is simple and small, so let’s go and get it.
39. Female Body with Scales Side Rib Tattoo
Here is a tattoo that represents balance and harmony between the emotional and rational aspects of personality. A naked female body stands between a scale of the heart and brain in the design. Simple lines are used to create it, so we see great line art here. If you want to make a powerful statement of balance, strength, and self-awareness.
40. Margarita Tattoo on Side Rib
Sometimes a margarita is all you need to relax. If you love it, let’s get a small tattoo of it on your side rib. stylized, The tattoo is portrayed in a cartoon-like manner, complete with the drink’s lime wedge and straw. Its size is so small that you can cover it easily. Let’s have fun with this cocktail!
41. Cool Side Rib Tattoo
The quote “You are enough” is a motivational message that reminds everyone that they possess everything they need to be happy, fulfilled, and successful. If you want a reminder like this, have this quote inked with a nice font on your side rib. It’s quite feminine and everyone will adore it.
42. Side Rib Angel Tattoo
The tattoo features an image of an angel, depicted with wings, blindfolded, and holding a bunch of plants. The blindfold represents the idea that the angel is impartial and unbiased. It’s like she is floating in the air with her beauty. Plus, it looks so realistic that it almost looks like a statue.
43. Scorpion Tattoo on Side Rib
It doesn’t matter if you want to show your zodiac sign or have a great tattoo on your side rib because this scorpion tattoo is for everyone! Scorpions are known for their toughness and ability to survive in harsh environments with their venomous stinger. With this tattoo, it can symbolize your power and strength. It is created by using simple and thin lines and it is given a dimensional effect.
44. Floral Moon Side Rib Tattoo
The black floral design surrounding a moon is worth a try! The design is done in black ink and placed on the side of the ribcage. The small tattoo is a combination of beautiful spring flowers and their leaves and they create a symbol of growth, renewal, and a connection to nature. You need to try this delicate tattoo.
45. Wonder Woman Side Rib Tattoo
The tattoo above is a representation of the iconic comic book character, Wonder Woman. If you want to show your power as a woman, there is no better tattoo than this one. It is not big and it is a symbol of a circular shield with two wings on either side. The center of the shield is adorned with a stylized W. Also, bold lines are used to make it stand out.
46. Quote Side Rib Tattoo
The quote “memento mori” is Latin for “remember that you have to die.” It is a reminder to live life to the fullest and appreciate every moment, as death is inevitable. Thus, this simple but meaningful tattoo is a reminder to cherish life and the hand poke tattooing technique looks amazing with all those fonts.
47. Geometrical Side Rib Tattoo For Ladies
Rib tattoos, while exquisitely aesthetic, are known for their sharp pain during the inking process, but the striking results are often worth the discomfort.
48. Side Rib Tattoo Dragon Design
Dragon designs, with their mythical and powerful allure, are a timeless choice for tattoo enthusiasts seeking to embody strength, wisdom, and the magic of the ancient world.
49. Side Rib Underboob Rose Tattoo
A side rib underboob rose tattoo exudes sensuality and elegance, as it gracefully intertwines the beauty of roses with the allure of a unique and subtly provocative placement.
50. Side Rib Quote Tattoo
Quote tattoos serve as permanent reminders of meaningful words, providing personal inspiration, guidance, or tributes etched in ink.
51. Geometrical Side Rib Tattoo Lady Design
Floral tattoos are a celebration of life and growth, as they blend the ephemeral beauty of flowers with the enduring artistry of ink.
52. Lion Side Rib Tattoo Idea
Lion tattoos symbolize strength, courage, and majesty, often chosen by individuals seeking to embody these powerful qualities.
Colorful Rib Tattoos
1. Pink Side Rib Tattoo
Add a pop of color and make your tattoo feminine and flirty!
2. Bird Side Rib Tattoo
This colorful phoenix bird tattoo will look great over your rib.
3. Blue Flower Side Rib Tattoo
Dedicate your floral tattoo to someone important in your life and show that a tattoo can have meaning.
4. Small Heart Side Rib Tattoo
A cute little heart rib tattoo represents your love and closeness to someone important in your life.
5. Abstract Side Tattoo For Women
This black and red rib tattoo will take you 2 hours to do.
6. Pink Flirty Floral Side Rib Tattoo
True flower lovers will see the beauty in this design and will want to show their pure elegance.
7. Big Flower Side Rib Tattoo
This side chest tattoo will suit different age groups. It is a must-do if you like feminine designs.
8. Colorful Side Rib Tattoo Ideas
Go for a pop of red if you’re into elegant tattoos and flirty ideas.
9. Side Rib Tattoo With A Date Roman Numerals
Go for this stomach tattoo if you enjoy seamless and delicate placements.
10. Bright Pink Side Rib Tattoo
If pink is your favorite color you’re going to like this side rib concept.
11. Small Minimalist Side Rib Tattoo
Small quick and easy to go for, this tattoo is for women who like elegance and minimalism.
12. Flowers & Butterflies Side Rib Tattoo
Show off your elegance and colorful side with this loud and bright design. It will make you look like a true artsy person.
13. Tree Of Life Side Rib Tattoo
Go for a tree of life tattoo if you enjoy sleek and chic tattoos, as well as a bit of that spiritual vibe to your designs.
14. Flaming Feather Side Rib Tattoo
This feather with brightly inked and this flame looks very realistic.
15. Beast Side Rib Tattoo
If you like unusual tattoo designs, you’re going to love this tattoo’s design so much.
16. Hand of the Mother & Paw Tattoo
A cute design with the paw and hand of the mother.
17. Plum Blossom & Fish Side Rib Tattoo
Without a doubt, this colorful tattoo will cheer your body up.
18. Lovely Flowers Side Rib Tattoo
This tattoo looks as colorful as an arboretum.
19. Japanese Art Side Rib Tattoo
The tattooist who made this tattoo must be a wonderful artist. This tattoo looks so realistic that it looks like a sticker.
20. Phoenix Side Rib Tattoo
These lines and colors look great on that phoenix tattoo.
21. Whale Side Rib Tattoo
If you’re fond of the underwater world, you will adore this design.
22. Butterflies Side Rib Tattoo
These cheerful butterflies will give a positive energy to your rib.
23. Colorful Moons Side Rib Tattoo
These moons are waiting for you if you like strange but cool tattoo designs.
24. Red Dragon Side Rib Tattoo
The process of inking can be a little bit painful, but eventually, you will have an amazing detailed dragon tattoo.
25. Native Skeleton Side Rib Tattoo
Isn’t it an interesting design of a skull face with some colorful vibes?
26. Colorful Side Rib Tattoo
These lines make this small tattoo a gorgeous piece.
27. Fox Side Rib Tattoo
Small but detailed pieces of ink here. The tattooist did a good job by inking it meticulously.
28. Large Size Rib Tattoo
This kind of large-sized tattoos are hard to ink in a short span of time but it totally worth it.
29. Crest Side Rib Tattoo
With other details, this crest design looks great on that side rib. You are sure to rock.
30. Norigae Side Rib Tattoo
If you like Korean tradition, you will love this colorful tattoo.
31. Evil Eye Side Rib Tattoo
This evil eye tattoo will protect you from bad luck. You should definitely try it out.
32. Rose Side Rib Tattoo
These roses look realistic and elegant on that body.
33. Frog Side Rib Tattoo
This tattoo looks so real. Your friend may think that it’s real at first glance.
34. Classy Rose Side Rib Tattoo
The rose has always been a favorite tattoo symbol. Placing red roses, the symbol of love and affection, on your side rib will definitely increase your feminine energy to the fullest. In addition, we are sure that you will receive many compliments with this tattoo, which is drawn with a realistic design and colored with bright colors.
35. Red Hot Chili Pepper Side Rib Tattoo
Here is a cute and fun tattoo idea above! If you like eating hot chili peppers or you just like Mexican culture and cuisine, this small red pepper may be a great tattoo for you. Portrayed in a cartoonish style, the tattoo is quite simple and it can even symbolize passion, heat, or spicy personality.
36. Blue Dragon Side Rib Tattoo
A blue dragon, which is a mythical creature that is known for its strength, power, and majesty, is placed on the side rib of the body. This long creature covers the whole side rib and it looks so scary with flames getting out of its body. Also, the dragon is opening its mouth wide, which shows his fierce look.
37. Cactus Side Rib Tattoo
In this cute colorful tattoo, an illustration of a vibrant cactus is placed inside an ornamental vase. As a cute detail, a pink flower popping on the cactus is placed above. Those who enjoy nature, botanical designs, and those who are looking for a meaningful, yet playful tattoo can try it out.
38. Korean Flag Side Rib Tattoo
This unique frame tattoo will show your love of North Korea and its culture. It is a horizontal tattoo placed on the side rib and there is a red and blue circle in the middle of the design. For the left and right parts of this circle, decorated trigrams are added like just in the real flag. The upper trigrams are decorated with pink spring flowers while the lower ones are decorated with fall leaves.
39. Kitsune Side Rib Tattoo
Kitsune is a mythical fox from Japanese folklore. It symbolizes good harvests, cunning and smarts, and fertility and prosperity. In the design above, the kitsune is decorated with a red ornament on his head and he is surrounded by an angry dragon. The combo of red and black ink and kitsune and dragon will show how you appreciate Japanese art and folklore.
40. Leaf Tattoo on Side Rib
Realistic tattoos have become so popular and here is one of the greatest examples of them. In this design above, there is a bunch of leaves that are placed horizontally on the side rib. It looks so real that you may feel like you carry them on your body. If you are looking to express your connection to nature, growth, and change in your life, give it a shot.
41. Green Butterfly Side Rib Tattoo
Butterfly tattoos never go out of style! Symbolizing a personal transformation, growth, and change, this green butterfly will turn your side rib into a piece of art. The shade of green changes from dark to light green to the wings and this is what gives the butterfly an aesthetically pleasing look. Its size is big but you can get a smaller one if you like.
42. Minimal Red Side Rib Tattoo
Minimalist tattoos are always a good idea. Why don’t you go for a red sun woman tattoo? It features a stylized sun symbol with the silhouette of a woman incorporated within the design. Done by using simple and thin lines, her hair resembles sunbeams and it looks so adorable. This simple line drawing will take your side rib tattoo to another level.
43. Yin Yang Koi Fish Tattoo on Side Rib
In Chinese culture, the koi is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. When two koi fish come together in a Yin Yang design, they create a harmonious whole together. They can swim upstream and overcome obstacles in their journey. Plus, the tattoo is visually appealing because a watercolor effect is achieved with a dark and light shade of blue.
44. Red Dragon Side Rib Tattoo
A dragon with a vibrant red color may be all you need to show your savage side. Details of the dragon such as scales, claws, and flowing flames represent strength, passion, and courage. Plus, red ink is so popular that it will make you stand out from the others easily. Let’s go for this big tattoo.
45. Pastel Lotus Side Rib Tattoo
A bunch of lotus flowers in soft colors such as pink, red, and green looks amazing. Two pinkish and two green lotus flowers are seen on the side rib and they symbolize enlightenment, purity, and spiritual growth. Also, the tattoo doesn’t have sharp or perfect lines since the ink gives such an effect that it looks as if the tattoo artist grabbed a crayon and drew something on the side rib.
46. Flowers and Hummingbirds on Side Rib
You will turn your body into a garden with this tattoo! The vividness of the colors used in the tattoo is quite eye-catching. The brightest shades of green, purple, orange, pink, and blue are used in the drawing of flowers and birds. Two hummingbirds hovering over the flowers are added as a nice detail in this tattoo, which starts from the side rib and goes all the way down to the hip.
47. Native American Deer Tattoo
Such a cute deer! This tattoo design depicts a stylized deer, in bright and bold colors, with a traditional headdress worn by some Native American tribes. In this stylish headdress, feathers and beads which symbolize the spiritual connection to the natural world are used. The cute deer is also holding a wheat bunch in its mouth and wearing a gorgeous necklace.
48. Jelly Fish Tattoo on Side Rib
Jellyfish tattoos symbolize the idea of freedom, fluidity, and unpredictability. The intricate, tentacle-like structure of the jellyfish above looks incredible with its realistic style and the soft colors of blue, purple, and pink make a great combination. The head part of it is covered in blue ink while its body starts with purple and slowly turns pink.
49. Koi Fish Side Rib Tattoo
Lion tattoos symbolize strength, courage, and majesty, often chosen by individuals seeking to embody these powerful qualities.
Time To Look Your Best
Side rib tattoos will look so sexy on women who know how to wear elegant tattoos. Show off your stylish and dare-devil side with one of these prints. Let us know which one you fancied the most, we can’t wait to see what you end up wearing on your torso!