Tattoo Type and Style Selection

When it comes to getting inked, picking the right tattoo type is half the journey—and honestly, it’s the fun part. Whether you’re planning your very first piece or adding something new to your collection, choosing from the different types of tattoos and styles out there can be a creative ride. At Mantra Tattoo, we’re all about helping you lock in a design that not only fits your vibe but also looks amazing for years to come.

If you’re already in Denver and ready to explore your options in person, swing by for Tattoo and Piercing in Denver. (Yes, we offer walk-ins and yes, it’s still better to book your consult appointment in advance!)

No matter what you’re into—bold, subtle, colorful, minimalist—we’ve got artists who specialize in just about every tattoo type you can imagine. And if you’re not sure what to call the style you like, or you only have a loose idea, no stress. We’re here to walk you through it, explain the difference between styles, and bring your idea to life.

What’s a Tattoo Type, Anyway?

So what do we mean by “tattoo type”? Think of it as the general category that your tattoo falls into. It’s the artistic style or technique that defines the look of your piece—not just what the tattoo is, but how it’s inked. You could get the same rose tattoo done in five different ways, and each one would feel totally unique depending on the style.

This is where exploring the tattoo styles list really comes in handy. Each style has its own tone, technique, and visual language. Whether you’re after timeless elegance or something wild and modern, there’s a perfect tattoo type out there for you.

Most Common Tattoo Types You’ll See at Mantra

We’ve worked on everything from full-sleeve Japanese dragons to dainty fine line flowers, so here’s a quick rundown of the most common tattoos and styles people request in our studio. Spoiler alert: each one comes with its own personality. If you’re just starting to browse the 10 types of tattoos out there, this is a great place to begin.

Traditional Tattoo Style

This one’s a classic for a reason.. Bold outlines, saturated colors, and iconic imagery like anchors, roses, and skulls. Traditional tattoos (aka “Old School”) never go out of style. If your vibe is timeless, loud, and proud, this one hits the mark.

Neo-Traditional Tattoos

Take everything you love about traditional style—bold lines and strong visuals—and add more detail, dimension, and sometimes surreal elements. Neo-traditional designs have a bit more artistic flexibility and are great for storytelling. Learn more about this tattoo type & style in our Neo Traditional Tattoos blog.

Fine Line & Script

For a lighter touch, fine line and custom script tattoos are where it’s at. Whether it’s delicate florals, meaningful coordinates, or a quote that gives you goosebumps, these tattoos are clean, minimal, and elegant. See more in our Fine Line Tattoo Denver page.

Japanese Style

From koi fish to cherry blossoms to fierce samurai warriors, Japanese tattoos are all about storytelling and flow. These full-bodied works of art have deep symbolism and often cover large areas like sleeves or backs.

Blackwork Tattoos

This style leans into strong, solid black shapes and pattern work. Whether geometric, tribal-inspired, or abstract, Blackwork tattoos make a bold statement and age beautifully over time.

Watercolor & Color Tattoos

Love a pop of color? Watercolor tattoos bring an artistic, painterly feel to skin using vibrant, blended hues with soft edges. Great for florals, animals, or nature-inspired designs that feel dreamy and light.

Black and Grey Realism

Hyper-detailed, photo-like tattoos done in shades of black and grey. These are often used for portraits, religious themes, and dramatic compositions. It’s realism at its finest.

Cover-Up Tattoos

Got old ink you’re not into anymore? A cover-up tattoo can transform it into something you actually love. Our artists are pros at designing smart, stylish cover-ups that totally hide what’s underneath.

Anime & Pop Culture Styles

Big fan of manga or vintage cartoons? The Anime tattoo style is vibrant, expressive, and instantly recognizable. Whether it’s a tribute to Studio Ghibli or your favorite game, we’ve got artists who specialize in this.

Illustrative Tattoo Styles

Sitting somewhere between realism and sketch, illustrative tattoo styles blend detailed linework with artistic shading for tattoos that feel like they jumped off a comic page or art print. It’s one of the more versatile options on the tattoo styles list, especially if you’re into a hand-drawn look that still has structure.

This style is also a go-to choice in many different types of tattoo styles, as it merges clean composition with visual storytelling. Whether you’re working with bold ink or soft shading, this tattoo type can adapt to pretty much any subject matter.

How to Pick the Right Tattoo Type for You

Start With Your Vision

Got a concept in mind? Great. If not, no pressure. Our artists work with you to explore different tattoo design styles that match your personality, meaning, and placement preferences. Whether you’re going with bold traditional or soft watercolor, your tattoo should reflect something personal.

Look at Placement

Where you’re getting the tattoo can influence your style. A full back piece? Japanese or Black and Grey might be ideal. Small wrist tattoo? Fine line or minimalist script probably fits best. Placement is a big part of our planning process.

Get Matched With the Right Artist

Not every artist vibes with every style. That’s why we help match you with a tattooer who lives and breathes the style you’re going for. Want something edgy and surreal? Bold and classic? Soft and feminine? We’ll get you to the right seat.

Still Exploring? Check Out These Tattoo Ideas

If you’re still browsing through the 10 types of tattoos that might fit your vibe, we’ve got some killer resources to help spark your next idea. These reads go deeper into specific themes and styles.

Check out our guide on Custom Lettering Tattoo designs for unique ways to personalize your ink.

Want something symbolic and sleek? Our blog on Snake Tattoo Meaning & Symbolism explores how a snake can represent rebirth, power, and mystery.

What to Expect When You Work With Us

Whether you’re a first-timer or a tattoo veteran, we’re all about making the process smooth, chill, and completely personalized.

Questions Before You Book?

We’ve got answers. If you’re unsure how to prep for your tattoo, how long it’ll take, or what aftercare looks like, check out our Getting a Tattoo FAQs page.

Ready to Go?

If you already know what you’re after or just want to talk it out with one of our artists, book your tattoo appointment to get started. We take pride in making sure every piece we ink is something both you and your artist feel proud of.

Final Thoughts on Tattoo Style & Type

Picking your tattoo type isn’t about trends—it’s about your story, your taste, and how you want to wear your art. At Mantra Tattoo, we work with you one-on-one to translate your ideas into timeless ink using the tattoo type and style that makes the most sense for you.

Want more tattoo insights and style inspo? Keep an eye on our Tattoos and Piercings Blog—we’re always dropping fresh guides, artist highlights, and design tips.