Ornamental Style Tattoos; True Decorative Body Art
What Are Ornamental Style Tattoos?
Ornamental tattoos are made up of detailed patterns that are decorative in nature. This means that the designs of the tattoos are more focused on aesthetics rather than representing a specific image like a person, character or object. The designs are designed so that they incorporate motifs, designs and aesthetics from traditional art, architecture, clothing patterns. These designs are also made to compliment a person’s body specifically, taking their proportions and sizing into account. Think of these tattoos in a way that’s similar to custom clothing or jewelry. To compliment their own look and style.
Main Features of Ornamental Style Tattoos
Intricate, Flowing Patterns: Ornamental tattoos are often made of patterns that have a direction, or flow in their designs. The flow can be in a specific direction or area that spreads out, according to the style of the pattern. These patterns can be made of geometric shapes such as the circles, cubes and hexagons. Ornamental styles such as mandala, lace, Maori and Polynesian tattoos have a flow to the patterns and ornamental design.
Symmetry and Balance: These two aspects are an important feature of ornamental tattoos. While perfect symmetry is impossible when it comes to tattooing (the human body isn’t 100% symmetrical as well). The symmetry comes from the layout of these elements and designs. This helps create the balance of the design, so both dense and lighter areas of design aren’t more dominant. This makes ornamental tattoos more aesthetically pleasing as a whole.
Decorative Elements: Ornamental tattoos can feature decorative elements and motifs. Common motifs include flowers, shapes, lines, and shading. These elements and motifs become part of a larger design, incorporated into patterns and flowing through the design.
Main Features of Ornamental Style Tattoos
Intricate, Flowing Patterns: Ornamental tattoos are often made of patterns that have a direction, or flow in their designs. The flow can be in a specific direction or area that spreads out, according to the style of the pattern. These patterns can be made of geometric shapes such as the circles, cubes and hexagons. Ornamental styles such as mandala, lace, Maori and Polynesian tattoos have a flow to the patterns and ornamental design.
Symmetry and Balance: These two aspects are an important feature of ornamental tattoos. While perfect symmetry is impossible when it comes to tattooing (the human body isn’t 100% symmetrical as well). The symmetry comes from the layout of these elements and designs. This helps create the balance of the design, so both dense and lighter areas of design aren’t more dominant. This makes ornamental tattoos more aesthetically pleasing as a whole.
Decorative Elements: Ornamental tattoos can feature decorative elements and motifs. Common motifs include flowers, shapes, lines, and shading. These elements and motifs become part of a larger design, incorporated into patterns and flowing through the design.
Types of Ornamental Tattoo Designs
Mandalas: Manda designs are made up from intricate patterns that are meant to represent the universe and spiritual beliefs. They are made of curved lines and shapes, often flowing from a central point. Motifs can range in their designs and intricacy and can also be incorporated with geometric motifs and designs.
Geometric Patterns: Geometric tattoos use shapes like triangles, squares, and circles to create designs with their own flow and patterns. These designs often make use of precise linework, solid black and shading to create visually striking designs.
Filigree: Filigree designs are inspired by the decorative designs for fine architecture. WIth the delicate swirls and flourishes being made into detailed designs. These can come in the shape of lace and jewelry to work as accents or part of a larger scale design. Giving a sophisticated, high class look and appeal to the tattoo.
Floral Designs: Floral designs are a timeless choice for all types of tattoos, especially ornamental. The natural shapes of flowers, leaves and vines can give a natural appeal to a tattoo. Flowers also carry their own appeal, as flowers can carry their own significance and meanings with them.
Architectural Elements: These ornamental designs are inspired by architecture, mainly historical and classical designs. These can come in the way of features such as columns, arches, windows and other intricately designed architectural elements. These designs show the detail and technical styles of those elements.
Why Should You Choose Ornamental Style Tattoos?
Beauty in Artistry: Ornamental tattoos are appreciated for the amount of complexity and technical effort in their design, and creation. These tattoos are strong examples of an artists’ vision and execution. Utilizing various elements to create one balance, and appealing design.
Timeless Look: Ornamental designs are The elegance of ornamental designs ensures they remain stylish and relevant over time. Their classic aesthetic means they won’t easily go out of fashion.
Personal Expression: Ornamental tattoos offer a way to express your individuality through unique and intricate designs. Whether you choose a mandala or a floral pattern, your tattoo can be a personal work of art.
Customization: Many ornamental tattoos are custom-designed to fit the body’s contours, allowing for personalized and unique artwork that enhances the natural flow of the tattooed area.
Tips for Getting an Ornamental Style Tattoo
Find references for your tattoo: Do some research and find references for the aesthetic you would like for your ornamental tattoo. Elements, flow, placement or even a general concept will help an artist come up with a concept and design.
Consider placement and sizing: The placement and size of your tattoo can impact its overall design. Areas such as your back, arms, legs and thighs can be great spaces to show off detail and find a suitable flow for each of the elements.
Choose an experienced artist: Ornamental tattoos require proper technique and understanding of design. When choosing an artist, look at their style of work and see their style matches your idea and concept. If you’re unsure, sending them a message and arranging for a consultation would help as well.
Prepare for your tattoo session: You want to be in the best condition to sit through the whole tattoo session. Especially with intricate work where you need to stay still for longer periods of time (in the case of larger pieces). Be sure to get plenty of sleep, eat properly and stay hydrated as well to keep your skin in the best condition possible.
Maintenance and Care: Proper aftercare is a must for any tattoo, it’s especially true for ornamental tattoos, to keep their detail and contrast in good condition. Follow aftercare instructions from your artist, and for long term care, use moisturizer and sunscreen to keep your tattoo looking good for years to come!
Conclusion
Ornamental style tattoos are unique as they are an example of a unique approach of tattooing. By creating a cohesive design from various elements and motifs, it becomes a fitting decoration for the person wearing it. To express themselves through an aesthetic style, with a piece uniquely made for them. If you’re looking to get an ornamental tattoo of your own. We here at Golden Hours have artists well versed in ornamental tattoos. Send us a message! We’d love to have you in for a tattoo and make an ornamental tattoo that you’ll love!
