Traditional Style Tattoos: Old School Style That Lasts
Image credit - Ali Bastardos Tattoo
Traditional style tattoos are special, being the origin of modern day tattooing as we know it today. With a rich history and style that has resonated with many tattoo artists and collectors over the decades. You’ll recognize the aesthetic right away. Bold lines, strong colors, and classic imagery that originates from the early days of tattoo. Yet the style still lives on to this modern day, with more artists and collectors looking to traditional style tattoos of their own. We’ll dive into traditional tattoos, their history and what makes a traditional tattoo stand amongst the ever changing times.
What Are Traditional Style Tattoos?
Traditional style tattoos are generally made up of bold black outlines, which are complimented by a limited palette of primary colors such as red, blue, yellow. Green is also included in designs where fitting. The designs are made with clear visuals that are striking to look at. People can instantly recognize the aesthetic and meaning of the tattoo. This is the main appeal of traditional tattoos.
A Quick History of Traditional Style Tattoos
Sailor Jerry | Image Credit - Cocktails Distilled
The history of traditional tattooing can be traced back to the late 19th century, with sailors traveling and exploring around the Pacific islands. Being introduced to the ancient art of tattoo from the Pacific islanders. These sailors would bring these tattoos and techniques back to America. Although the techniques and designs would be adapted to the fit with the times. One of the most notable first American tattoo artists was Martin Hildebrant, who opened his shop in New York City in 1870. Opening the market for tattoos locally. Most tattooed Americans at the time were soldiers and sailors getting tattoos for good luck, and a reminder of life back home. Artist Paul Rogers with his trailer called The Iron Factory started tattooing soldiers with eagles and other winged creatures. Sailor Jerry Collins is known amongst the pioneers of what we would now call traditional American tattoos. Being based in Honolulu, Hawaii, he would popularize the bold lines and strong colors of traditional tattooing to what is today.
What are the Key Characteristics of Traditional Style Tattoos?
Bold Outlines: The thick black outlines that traditional tattoos are made with are clear and defined. The dark color bold black gives the images a sharp contrast between the strong colors and shapes them to fit the overall image. The boldness of the lines also helps the tattoo keep its sharpness long term.
Limited Color Palette: Traditional tattoos utilize a limited color palette of red, blue, yellow, green and black. These colors are strong and are used in solid blocks, as they are simple and easy to identify.
Simple Designs: The simplified, straightforward designs of traditional tattoos are made to be easily recognizable. One quick look, and you’ll be able to tell right away what the tattoos are. Common designs will include eagles, skulls, hearts, anchors and more.
Minimal Shading: Traditional tattoos tend to feature minimal shading in their designs. Although modern neo-traditional designs implement more shading and highlights in their designs.
Popular Traditional Tattoo Designs
Image Credit - Gunz Tattoo
Anchors: A cornerstone of traditional tattooing, commonly seen on sailors from the early days of tattooing till now. Anchors symbolize stability, and a connection to the sea or a sailor’s home.
Roses: One of the classic flowers of tattooing, often used as a symbol of love and beauty. Traditional rose tattoos are often seen as an expression of love or admiration. Rose tattoos are often complimented with script and leaves.
Eagles: A bird representing freedom and strength. Eagles are a powerful symbol shown in a stylized appearance to make them majestic in their appearance and nature.
Skulls: A common design in traditional tattoos, symbolizing mortality and the nature of life itself. They are shown with bold lines and are complimented with other elements such as script, crosses, and others.
Hearts: Traditional heart tattoos are often seen with banners, names are written on them to express love and devotion. They are a timeless way of expressing connection and commitment.
Pin-Up Girls: A nostalgic nod to the vintage era, pin-up girls are meant to represent the beauty, femininity and allure of women.
Daggers: A dagger is often used to represent courage and resilience. For those who wish to immortalize a scar or tough moment in their lives.
Why Choose Traditional Style Tattoos?
Timeless look and appeal: Traditional tattoos are well known to stand the test of time. The visuals of the design are well suited to last years and even decades without any touch ups. Their aesthetic, while older, are still appreciated even into this modern day.
Rich History: The rich history of traditional tattoos are appealing. Getting a piece that reflects the legacy of modern tattooing is a form of respect to the origins of the art form.
Adaptable: While the characteristics of traditional tattoos are set and rigid. A lot can be done with the tattoos regarding placement, size and appearance. Making them easy to adapt to different sizes and placement on body areas.
Conclusion
Traditional style tattoos are timeless, and having a traditional tattoo carries a lot of history and meaning. From the decades old origins of the style, to the messages and symbolism of the designs. Traditional tattoos will be sure to continue into the far future.
If you want a traditional tattoo of your own, we at Golden Hours are happy to help! With artists experienced and familiar in various styles including traditional. Make a meaningful piece of your own with us. Send us a message and we’ll be happy to help!
