Waves have been a popular tattoo choice for decades and can range from super detailed designs, such as the ones that can be found in the Japanese style of tattooing, or ones that fall under the more m...
Waves have been a popular tattoo choice for decades and can range from super detailed designs, such as the ones that can be found in the Japanese style of tattooing, or ones that fall under the more minimalistic style, like Miley Cyrus's wave tattoo. Traditionally waves have been used to symbolize life and strength or to depict that life is similar to water, at times it will be strong and swift, but with that comes gentle and calm moments as well. Check out our fave inkbox wave tattoos, cue some John Mayer - Emoji of a Wave, and get these wavey designs before summer comes to an end!
This tattoo is named after a word that describes the back and forth movement at a regular speed.
“Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind. “ - Lilo. Anyone remember this heartwarming and re-occuring quote from the good ‘ole Lilo & Stitch movie?? If you need a refresher click here (0:50 to be exact.) In Hawaiian culture the word “Ohana” means family. Family doesn’t always have to be blood but includes the people in your life who want you in theirs, the ones who accept you for who you are. They are the people who would do anything for each other, and who will love you unconditionally.
As previously mentioned in our Top 10 Moon Tattoos for Lunar Fanatics blog, the moon has a powerful gravitational pull on the Earth’s bodies of water, creating the natural phenomena of waves.
Although this design is different, it reminds us of The Great Wave off Kanawaga, which is one of the most iconic and recognizable masterpieces of traditional Japanese art from the 19th century by the famous Katasushkia Hokusai. There have been many different variations and interpretations of it and has been used as a popular tattoo inspiration for many throughout the years. Some believe this powerful piece signifies darkness and the truthful portrayal of the power of the sea. To learn more about this historic piece of art, check out the article '15 Things You Might Not Know About The Great Wave off Kanawaga'.
Following the summer time vibes, this tattoo encapsulates the easy going, free-wave flowing mood of the summer. Tell us that this design doesn’t give you serious bare feet, salty hair vibes?
This design is named after the greek word “Kyma”, which translates directly to “wave”. Sometimes you just have to ride the wave that you’re given.
Saville is for those trendsetters who are into the minimalistic tattoos and all things retro. We noted retro as this tattoo was inspired by the 80's punk-rock band, Joy Division's album “Unknown Pleasures”, that included cover art by Peter Saville.
Part of our exclusive collaboration with artist Elesq, this design we’re sure must speak to everyone and anyone who has had those days where there are a million and one things on your mind. Days in which you wish you could just let all those worries and thoughts just roll away like a wave.
Let's be real, minimalistic tattoos have been in for a while now, and have been brought to our attention thanks to celebrities and their corresponding celebrity tattoo artists. This design is the most simplistic and minimal wave of them all, and has so many placement options! One notable celeb who has a similar design tatted (alongside her famous boyfriend and two other friends), is the one and only Miley Cyrus. Here’s a shot of the four of them rocking their minimal wave tattoos done by the talented @laurenwinzer.
If you want to jump in on this wave check out this similar inkbox design!
Another design that is part of our exclusive collaboration with Elesq, that also gives us The Great Wave off Kanawaga vibes. A powerful design enclosed neatly in a triangle which balances out the chaos of the waves.
That’s it for our featured wave tattoos, hope you’ve enjoyed the ride. If these designs aren't making you feel wavey enough check out our other wave themed designs here, or you can head over to our custom platform to create your very own!