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110 Gothic Tattoo Ideas to Bring Out Your Darker Side

by Sherri Owens

From roses and butterflies to skulls and architecture, there are many different ideas and elements for you to choose for your goth tattoo.

I went through a goth phase during my rebellious teenage years and even got a goth tattoo during this time! And, while I no longer identify as goth, the goth tattoo style has remained dear to my heart which is why I am always excited when a client requests for such a design.

In this post, I will show you the gothic tattoo ideas and provide a bit of explanation for each of these gothic tattoos.

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The Best Gothic Tattoo Ideas

Here are the top gothic tattoo designs that you should check out:

Gothic Rose Tattoos

As you may have noticed, roses are a common part of gothic style as well as gothic tattoos. This can be a bit surprising considering how mainstream these flowers can be.

Well, once you understand a bit more about roses, you will see how they naturally fit into goth tattoos.

Black and Grey Gothic Rose with Thorns Spine Tattoo

Image by @yongha_blk via Instagram

Black Gothic Rose Chest Tattoo

Image by @chaos3rdeye.ink via Instagram

Roses, especially red ones, are associated with love and passion - these are all elements that you will find at the roots of gothic culture.

Although a lot of people assume that the gothic aesthetic was what kick-started the goth movement, this isn't the case at all. In reality, it was first gothic literature invented by writers such as Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe. Later on, the music scene pushed the gothic lifestyle into the spotlight.

Red Gothic Rose with Eye Leg Tattoo

Image by @astrocash83 via Instagram

Withered Rose and Text Tattoo

Image by @tattoobreda.nl via Instagram

Well, both gothic literature as well as gothic music is heavily influenced by themes such as love, loss, and mortality. Well, these are all things that the rose symbolizes as well. Due to this, it makes for the perfect gothic tattoo design.

Of course, in the case of gothic roses, the tattoo style tends to be a little different. If you are getting a red rose, then the color of the rose will be deeper and darker. The outline, the stem, the thorns will all seem a little spikier in your goth tattoo.

Black Gothic Roses with Thorns Chest Tattoo

Image by @blackdaggertattoonorwich via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Rose with Spider Web Thigh Tattoo

Image by @craigreid87 via Instagram

Of course, you can choose to go with the classic option with this gothic tattoo design and get a black ink rose instead.

Check out these rose goth tattoo ideas to see if this will fit in with your style:

Red Gothic Rose with Spider Web Arm Tattoo

Image by @amyjasmine_model via Instagram

Red Gothic Rose Arm Tattoo

Image by @kotiart87 via Instagram

Colored Gothic Roses Shoulder Tattoo

Image by @esme.artemis via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Rose Thigh Tattoo

Image by @artemisia.absinthium.tattoo via Instagram

Gothic Butterfly Tattoos

A butterfly can seem like another odd concept for gothic tattoo designs. Most people associate butterflies with light and nature.

What many people don't realize, though, is that the butterfly and the butterfly goth tattoo are associated with transformation. The caterpillar turns into the butterfly and it emerges as an entirely different creature.

Black and Grey Gothic Butterfly Arm Tattoo

Image by @scottolivertattoo via Instagram

Gothic Butterfly with Skull Chest Tattoo

Image by @she_tattoo_ via Instagram

This could be something that people who have adopted the gothic style can relate to. They may have been living much of their lives in the manner that everyone else wanted them to.

However, after they embraced their goth nature, they became who they were truly meant to be.

Gothic Butterfly with Heart and Coffin Arm Tattoo

Image by @spencerkinnardtattoosandnewyorktattoocollective via Instagram

Black Gothic Butterfly with Amethyst Crystal Hand Tattoo

Image by @madness.ttt via Instagram

Now, as you can imagine, a butterfly gothic tattoo design is quite different to the butterfly tattoos that you will typically find.

For one thing, the butterflies in your goth tattoo will be done up in dark shades and in a more somber style. Also, the outline of these butterflies of your gothic tattoo may be spikier or have a less defined shape to them.

If you are curious to see if such gothic tattoos may be right for you, check out these gothic tattoo designs right here:

Black and Grey Symmetrical Gothic Butterfly with Skull Belly Tattoo

Image by @ori_tattoo_ via Instagram

Geometrical Ornamented Gothic Butterfly Calf Tattoo

Image by @cruzcfiction via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Butterfly Stomach Tattoo

Image by @lilim_art via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Butterfly Sternum Tattoo

Image by @evil_twin_tattoo via Instagram

Gothic Insect Tattoos

As far as gothic tattoo designs go, insects are a very fitting idea. Most people are afraid of insects, especially spiders. However, they appeal to those who are into the goth lifestyle.

Spider Web and Flies Gothic Belly Tattoo

Image by @hollydoestattoosandlostfoxtattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Mantis Calf Tattoo

Image by @ink.sirin via Instagram

Black Gothic Scorpion Hand Tattoo

Image by @vampiro.ill via Instagram

Of course, the goth style is all about subverting the norm. You choose to embrace the elements of life that others may find scary or unappealing.

MOTH GOTHIC TATTOOS

Moths tend to get a pretty bad rap in society. They are associated with destruction and many people are afraid of them.

They are associated with darkness, death, life beyond death, and the mysteries of the universe.

Black Moth Gothic Arm Tattoo

Image by @blackout_occult via Instagram

Moon Moth with Eye Gothic Leg Tattoo

Image by @livingdeadtattoozandldstudio_ne via Instagram

In reality, though, a moth and a moth goth tattoo actually has beautiful symbolism. For one thing, in many cultures, a moth and a moth gothic tattoo is good omens, bringing happiness and good luck.

For another, a moth and moth goth tattoo is also a symbol of transformation, much like butterflies but they aren't seen in the same way - this is something that people who follow a goth aesthetic may be able to relate to.

Gothic Moth with Eyes on Wings Chest Tattoo

Image by @alycat.tattoos via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Moth Biceps Tattoo

Image by @lois.storm.tattoos via Instagram

Last, but not least, a moth and moth gothic tattoo can actually be a sign of positivity. They may look dark and scary but the reality is that they are constantly drawn towards the light. If this describes you, then this is the perfect goth tattoo for you to get!

If you want a more detailed or creative moth goth tattoo, make sure to hire a professional tattoo artist for the job.

Here are some moth goth tattoo ideas that you should consider:

Black and Grey Gothic Moth with Skulls Arm Tattoo

Image by @rick_cyn via Instagram

Gothic Death Moth with Skull Arm Tattoo

Image by @alexandrafische via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Moth with Skull Stomach Tattoo

Image by @angelo_barulli via Instagram

Ripped Gothic Moth with Eyes on Wings Leg Tattoo

Image by @claywater_yo via Instagram

Black and Grey Thorns and Gothic Moth Leg Tattoo

Image by @blackout_occult via Instagram

Black and Grey Flowers and Gothic Moth Hip Tattoo

Image by @bryanblacktattoo via Instagram

SPIDER GOTH TATTOOS

You would be hard-pressed to find someone who isn't afraid of spiders. As I mentioned, the gothic style is all about embracing the more unusual or fringe elements of society.

So, a spider goth tattoo is the perfect choice for you. The great thing about spider gothic tattoos is that there are so many different style options for your gothic tattoo.

You can choose to be as traditional or as creative as you like with your goth tattoo.

Black Widow with Spider Web Gothic Elbow Tattoo

Image by @lucie.tattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Spider with Skull Forearm Tattoo

Image by @joeyces_art via Instagram

Black and Grey Spider Web and Gothic Spider with Skull Arm Tattoo

Image by @claywater_yo via Instagram

Black Spider Web and Gothic Spider Thigh Tattoo

Image by @ginge_ink via Instagram

Black Gothic Spider Shoulder Tattoo

Image by @jamieleightattoo via Instagram

Black Widow with Spider Web Gothic Arm Tattoo

Image by @hells.horror via Instagram

Black Widow with Woman Head Gothic Spider Thigh Tattoo

Image by @sophiesparrow_tattoo via Instagram

If you don't want a spider gothic tattoo, you may want to consider a spider web goth tattoo instead. It is very in-line with the gothic aesthetic and there are also many different goth tattoo design options to choose from as well.

Here's one spider web gothic tattoo you might like:

Matching Heart Shaped Spider Web and Gothic Spiders Leg Tattoos

Image by @velvetgothic via Instagram

Gothic Bat Tattoos

Can you think of anything more gothic than bats? Probably not! These creatures of the night are associated with the dark side and the hunt. Bats are also feared because they can spread disease from one person to another.

In any case, this gothic tattoo design has become quite common among those who follow the lifestyle.

Black Crescent and Gothic Bat Arm Tattoo

Image by @merry_tattooer via Instagram

Grey Shaded Stars and Gothic Bat Arm Tattoo

Image by @mofftatt via Instagram

Black Crescent with Stars and Gothic Bat Tattoo

Image by @furora.t via Instagram

Now, if you want to get a scarier or more traditional version of this kind of goth tattoo, then you should consider getting a vampire bat gothic tattoo.

Check out these gothic tattoos for inspiration:

Amethyst Crystals and Gothic Bat Arm Tattoo

Image by @madness.ttt via Instagram

Red Crescent and Gothic Bats Back Tattoo

Image by @vampannie via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Bat Chest Tattoo

Image by @inktoarttattoos via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Bats Back Tattoo

Image by @madness.ttt via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Flying Bat Spine Tattoo

Image by @thegallantcrow via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Bat Lower Back Tattoo

Image by @thegallantcrow via Instagram

Black Gothic Bat with Four Eyes Leg Tattoo

Image by @madness.ttt via Instagram

Gothic Cat Tattoos

If you want a gothic tattoo design but don't want anything too extreme, you should consider cat gothic tattoos.

While cats are beloved, there is also no denying that they can be an acquired taste. They are independent creatures who can be quite solitary. They are also fierce and know what they like.

Books and Black Gothic Cat with Wings Arm Tattoo

Image by @childrenofthenight9 via Instagram

Amethyst and Black Gothic Cat with Wings Tattoo

Image by @madness.ttt via Instagram

Skull with Mushrooms and Black Gothic Cat Arm Tattoo

Image by @childrenofthenight9 via Instagram

There are many who believe that cats play an important role in the occult. If all these ideas appeal to you, then a cat gothic tattoo may be in order!

Here are some gothic tattoos that you should consider:

Crescent and Black Gothic Cat with Wings Spine Tattoo

Image by @darkfashionbeauty2804 via Instagram

Black and Grey Flowers and Gothic Cat Arm Tattoo

Image by @markedbymorellitattoos via Instagram

Black Gothic Cat with Pentagram Calf Tattoo

Image by @kens.tattoo.page via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Cat Forearm Tattoo

Image by @beserk via Instagram

Colored Gothic Cat Forearm Tattoo

Image by @bigdeluxetattoo via Instagram

Night Sky and Black and Grey Gothic Cat Forearm Tattoo

Image by @lixi_sickandnormal via Instagram

Gothic Tribal Tattoos

Such gothic tattoos are also referred to as neo-tribal tattoos. Traditionally, tribal tattoos refer to tattoos to related to Maori, Polynesian, or other indigenous tribes.

Black and Grey Skull and Gothic Tribal Full Back Tattoo

Image by @ladefaction via Instagram

Ornamented Gothic Tribal Arm Tattoo

Image by @sagan.tt via Instagram

Black Gothic Tribal Both Forearms Sleeve Tattoo

Image by @ladefaction via Instagram

Over the last couple of decades, spiky, inky tattoos have also been referred to as tribal tattoos. Many people who identify with the gothic aesthetic have adopted these tattoos as they have many of the style elements that you would find in gothic fashion.

Skull and Gothic Tribal Hand and Fingers Tattoo

Image by @gothicfanclub via Instagram

Grey Gothic Tribal Arm and Shoulder Tattoo

Image by @giorgia.saietti via Instagram

Grey Gothic Tribal Chest and Ribs Tattoo

Image by @represailles.s via Instagram

This black and grey ink designs also make for an excellent sleeve tattoo.

If these kind of gothic tattoos appeal to you, here are the goth tattoo designs you should check out:

Ornamental Gothic Tribal Back Tattoo

Image by @rroosterr via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Tribal Back Tattoo

Image by @xink________ via Instagram

Black Ornamental Gothic Tribal Belly Tattoo

Image by @cezimbra.nuclear via Instagram

Red Ornamental Gothic Tribal Arm Tattoo

Image by @giorgia.saietti via Instagram

Gothic Skull and Skeleton Tattoos

A skull or skeleton tattoo is very on brand for a gothic tattoo. While skulls and skeletons are typically associated with death and destruction, this isn't always the case.

Gothic Empress Skeleton with Crown Forearm Sleeve Tattoo

Image by @angeloparente via Instagram

Gothic Skeleton Hand with Rose Forearm Tattoo

Image by @jaylong.tattoo via Instagram

Girl on Swing and Gothic Skull Arm Tattoo

Image by @delmertattoos via Instagram

These gothic tattoos can also remind you of the circle of life. Yes, things may not last forever but where there is an end, there is also a beginning.

If you like this concept, here are the gothic tattoos you need to check out:

Colorful Moth and Gothic Skull Arm Tattoo

Image by @marta_vinni_tattooandblack_forest_tattoostudio via Instagram

Herbs and Colored Gothic Skull Chest Tattoo

Image by @marta_vinni_tattoo via Instagram

Barbed Wire Heart and Gothic Skull Biceps Tattoo

Image by @aurustattoostudio via Instagram

Eye Ball and Gothic Skulls Forearm Tattoo

Image by @justjanak_inkandthe_painted_man_tattoo_studio via Instagram

Hand and Gothic Skeleton with Trumpet Arm Tattoo

Image by @kelpiebat via Instagram

Gothic Skeleton with Sickle Biceps Tattoo

Image by @handling.tattooandaurorabloomtattoo via Instagram

Bat, Owl and Gothic Skull with Candle Leg Tattoo

Image by @super_sophz via Instagram

Gothic Vampire Tattoos

Vampires and vampire goth tattoo designs have always been closely associated with the goth lifestyle. These mystical creatures seem to have the same interests that many goths do - life, death, and what comes after.

Red Crescent and Gothic Vampire Queen Tattoo

Image by @ebonystrange via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Lady Vampire with Crescent Thigh Tattoo

Image by @jillytattoo via Instagram

With their pale skin, bright red lips, and dark hair and clothing, vampires tend to possess the many gothic elements.

If you like this association, here are the gothic tattoo ideas you should consider:

Colored Gothic Vampire Girl with Script Forearm Tattoo

Image by @gracelandtattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Lady Vampire Inner Biceps Tattoo

Image by @sean.new.ingk via Instagram

Gothic Vampire Girl with Yellow Eyes Arm Tattoo

Image by @gigitattoosandmaison.kuma via Instagram

Colorful Vampire Hunter D Biceps Tattoo

Image by @necronomitron via Instagram

Colorful Bat and Gothic Vampire Girl Thigh Tattoo

Image by @leahmarietattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Vampire Girl Forearm Sleeve Tattoo

Image by @jamieblackbourn via Instagram

Black Castle and Gothic Vampire Girl Forearm Tattoo

Image by @deathlyemma via Instagram

Gothic Vampire Girl with Blood on Lips Arm Tattoo

Image by @uvedesign_tattoo via Instagram

Gothic Occult Tattoos

Not all goths are interested in or practice the occult. However, it is a part of gothic subculture. If this is a field you're interested in as well, your gothic tattoo should reflect this.

The good news is that there are plenty of goth tattoo concepts to choose from. It is up to you to decide how extreme the design elements of your gothic tattoo is going to be.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Grayscale Flaming Goblet Tattoo

Image by @pdv via Instagram

Black and Grey Dorohedoro Gothic Occult Ribs Tattoo

Image by @neverland.tattoo via Instagram

Black Bats and Gothic Occult Kettle Forearm Tattoo

Image by @morriganblackart via Instagram

Black Gothic Occult Symbols Hand Tattoo

Image by @blackout_occult via Instagram

Hands and Goat with Four Eyes Occult Arm Tattoo

Image by @merry_tattooer via Instagram

Owl and Gothic Woman with Jewelry Thigh Tattoo

Image by @demon_inkorporation_studio via Instagram

Moon with Stars and Goat with Wings Arm Tattoo

Image by @blvckmoon_tattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Girl Forearm Tattoo

Image by @oguzgulnk via Instagram

Mushrooms and Witch Potion Arm Tattoo

Image by @miabarix_tattoo via Instagram

Skull with Candle and Gothic Cat Arm Tattoo

Image by @__artemisia_absinthium__andtours.tatouage via Instagram

Black Gothic Occult Symbols Throat Tattoo

Image by @jamesbtattoo via Instagram

Gothic Architecture Tattoos

There is something incredibly haunting and beautiful about gothic architecture, which is why a gothic tattoo that includes structures and buildings is a great idea!

For this kind of goth tattoo, you can choose a particular building as inspiration. Or, you can create your own template for your gothic tattoo with the help of your tattoo artist.

In any case, here are some designs that can give you ideas for your own goth tattoo:

Black and Grey Gothic Castle Thigh Tattoo

Image by @rroosterr via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Cathedral Arm Tattoo

Image by @rroosterr via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Cathedral Forearm Tattoo

Image by @rroosterr via Instagram

Black and Grey Dragon and Gothic Cathedral Arm Tattoo

Image by @whatreiley via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Portal Calf Tattoo

Image by @inchiostrocuore via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Door Forearm Tattoo

Image by @inchiostrocuore via Instagram

Black and Grey Skeleton and Gothic Cathedral Forearm Tattoo

Image by @melencolia.tattoo via Instagram

Woman Face and Gothic Cathedral Forearm Tattoo

Image by @luislealtattoo via Instagram

Black and Grey Half Moon and Gothic Cathedral Forearm Tattoo

Image by @rroosterr via Instagram

Flowers and Gothic Haunted House Arm Tattoo

Image by @megferrytattoos via Instagram

Black and Grey Gothic Architecture Forearm Tattoo

Image by @jessy.blackcats.tattoo via Instagram

What is a Gothic Tattoo?

A gothic tattoo can refer to either a tattoo based on the goth lifestyle or one that relates to gothic style of literature, music, and architecture. The latter is inspired by a Victorian era of style.

There are plenty of goth tattoo concepts for you to choose from. Now that you know your options, making a decision will be easy!

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