You don’t have to be a bodybuilder or a rock star to rock a cool shoulder tattoo. A tattoo on your shoulder is a great way to express yourself without committing to a full-on sleeve or chest piece. Shoulder tattoos are versatile. You can get a small and subtle design or go big with some badass tribal art. Either way, shoulder tattoos look great on men.
Needless to say shoulder tattoos are one of the most popular places for men to get inked, and with good reason: they’re eye-catching and attention-grabbing. Plus, since they’re right by your neck, they can also be a great way to subtly show off your style without being too obvious about it.
If you’re thinking about getting a shoulder tattoo, you’re probably looking for something that will make a statement.
But what statement? There are many different types of shoulder tattoos available today that can suit any taste or style. As we stated earlier, you can get a traditional tribal design or more modern design such as valknut or semicolon. You can also choose from many different styles of lettering as well as symbols such as skulls, crosses, stars and hearts. Many people choose not to add color to their tattoos because they want to keep them simple and classy looking.
So what kind of tattoo should you get? Here are some popular designs and ideas for men who want to get inked on their shoulders.
Black Shoulder Tattoos For Men
1. Big Sleeve Shoulder Tattoo
A giant tattoo such as this one will look the best on guys who work out, as well as men who fancy big-sleeve concepts.
2. Black Wings Shoulder Tattoo
A pair of wings will help you enjoy your path and your life with the right approach knowing you’re doing exactly what needs to be done.
3. Shoulder Tattoo & Chest Tattoo
Show your persistency and your dominant bold side with this giant dragon tattoo.
4. Back Shoulder Tattoo Angel Print
If you believe in your little guardian angels this small black ink tattoo will look great on you.
5. Unique Black Ink Shoulder Tattoo
If you are a firm believer when it comes to spiritual signs or Greek mythology, why not book this black ink shoulder tattoo design?
6. Funny Cartoon Shoulder Tattoo
If Winnie was your favorite character while growing up you’re going to like this cute and small black ink shoulder tattoo.
7. Black Lotus Shoulder Tattoo
Cool giant lotus flower that will take 2-3 hours to do and place on your back shoulder.
8. Giant Masterpiece Shoulder Tattoo
If you really trust your tattoo artist why not give it a go with this giant and feminine flower? Those who fancy bigger and more dramatic ideas will fancy this feminine concept.
9. Scary Dragon Shoulder Tattoo
Show that you can fight demons and that you’re not afraid of what’s about to come your way. You can battle it all!
10. Black Ink Shoulder Tattoo
In case you have had a dramatic experience and have gone through something scary just show that you’ve been shattered, but not destroyed.
11. Funny Cat Shoulder Tattoo
If you are a true cat lover this cute little tattoo is the right one for you!
12. Little Angel Shoulder Tattoo Design
Angels on your shoulders will symbolize ultimate protection against evil and any form of bad energy.
13. Big Bad Wolf Shoulder Tattoo
Cool wolf design that shows your bold and dominant side. Ideal for men who want to make an impression and a statement everywhere they go.
14. Cute Portrait Shoulder Tattoo
You can dedicate your shoulder tattoo to someone special and important in your life. Show how close you are to your little ones with this portrait on your shoulders.
15. Pegasus Shoulder Tattoo
A Giant Pegasus tattoo such as this one will show that you’re not afraid of anything and that you’re your own master and destiny creator.
16. Tribal Black Ink Shoulder Tattoo
Somewhat tribal and very mysterious, this gorgeous tattoo will take you 4-5 hours to do but is really worth it.
Colorful Shoulder Tattoos For Men
1. Red Splash Shoulder Tattoo
Go for this tattoo and show that you can bleed and still have emotions, along with a huge heart.
2. Butterfly Shoulder Tattoo For Guys
Blue butterflies are for those who fancy brighter and more cheerful ideas. If you’re someone who is connected to nature in some way this fancy two-shoulder piece is for you.
3. Red Devil Shoulder Tattoo
This little red Devil design will show that you’ve faced evil multiple times in your life but have managed to pull through and will always fight it.
4. Cartoon Shoulder Tattoo
True movie lovers and cartoon lovers will like this fierce and bright colorful print on their shoulders.
5. Bright Nordic Shoulder Tattoo Design
Men who work out and guys who are into large tribal ideas will fancy this red shoulder ink.
6. Dragon Ink Shoulder Tattoo
The black and blue dragon will look stylish and creative. These colors will show that you’re someone who knows how to stay humble and fierce at the same time.
7. Big Tiger Shoulder Tattoo
If there’s a tiger within you waiting to rise and shine + you’re someone who likes fierce bold symbols, give it a go with this tiger tattoo.
8. Leaf Shoulder Tattoo
The green leaf symbolizes new and bright optimistic things that will come your way. Fancy its meaning?
9. Blue Diamond Shoulder Tattoo
Show that you’re an actual gem with this gemstone detail and that everyone can be inspired by your inner shine and your bright persona!
10. Artsy Shoulder Tattoo
Heads up since this giant shoulder tattoo will take some time to get. It is also a pricey piece to go for, so heads up before you commit to it.
11. Phoenix Shoulder Tattoo Ink Idea
Bird tattoos usually symbolize the path that you must take in order to push through. Show that you’re bright and bold yet that you have a clear vision with this fiery idea.
12. Dinosaur Shoulder Tattoo
Simple and cute, this dinosaur cartoon tattoo is for those who fancy funny and creative ideas + guys who are still kids at heart.
13. Fun Movie Inspired Shoulder Tattoo
If Jurassic World or Jurassic Park is one of your favorite movies give it a go with this black and red shoulder tattoo.
14. Broken Chain Shoulder Tattoo For Men
Lastly, you can go for several different pieces and let your shoulder tattoo tell its own story. Who says that you have to stick to just one?
Shoulder Tattoo Time
Is anyone craving shoulder tattoo inspiration after reading through this article? We know that you’re going to enjoy a ton of these cool options. Which one is your next must-do ink?!