Like ordinary tattoos, couple tattoos require serious thinking. However, when it comes to getting a tattoo that cements your loyalty to another person, there’s an added layer of consideration involved. Coordinating a permanent representation of your bond deserves to result in something sophisticated, timeless, and meaningful—without veering into cliché territory.
This post offers 10 ideas for those contemplating an inked tribute with their significant other, whether you’re married, engaged, or have simply committed yourself to the long haul.
Couple Tattoos: Are They Really a Good Idea?
We’ll lay down the facts: whenever we mention getting couple tattoos, those with our best interests at heart will always ask, “Are you sure?”. It’s a candid but well-intentioned question, and despite the photos you’ve seen online of names of, unfortunately, people who have gone their separate ways and half-hearted portrait cover-ups, couple tattoos can still be a deeply special thing that doesn’t put your pride on the line.
After taking a step back to consider the impact of this decision, the secret formula is to ensure that your tattoo can stand on its own while also being a remarkable extension of your partner. In other words, it should signify your personal connection to your SO, yet be flexible enough to look great individually and adapt to changes (if the situation warrants).
On the flip side, some couple tattoos may be more prone to regret due to their inherent over-sentimentality or transience. These are names (nicknames included) and faces of each other, romantic quotes, and what might be seen as banal and overdone words like “always” and “forever”. When a couple’s circumstances shift, these tattoos can feel out of place on your body, leaving you with something that no longer holds meaning or evokes discomfort.
So, what’s left? Explore these ten inspirational ideas that not only persist through time but also offer customization opportunities for those who want a bit more “me” than “us”. From subtle celestial designs to characters that hold personal resonance, your shared tattoos can now be both a beautiful expression of individuality and togetherness, all without jeopardizing your self-esteem.
1. Two Halves of a Whole
Two halves of a whole tattoos are split into two so that each partner has one half of the design. When placed together, these tattoos form one complete and unified image. While a heart divided into two parts comes to mind, this concept can be reimagined in countless creative ways.
Ideas: Butterfly wings, planet and orbit, diamond, shell and pearl, fruit.
2. Partial Phrase
Similar to two halves of a whole, partial or incomplete phrases are a creative concept that involves each partner getting a tattoo that completes or complements the other, forming a sentence (or part of). It can make a unique and poetic choice for couples who are linguistically inclined and tend to finish each other’s sentences.
Ideas: “To infinity” / “And beyond”, “I am” / “Because of you”, “Where you go”/ “I will follow”, “I love you” / “I know”, “You are the poem” / “I never knew how to write”.
3. Celestial Tattoos
Mystical, other-worldly and powerful in their symbolism, celestial elements can also be applied to couple tattoos. For example, shooting stars can represent the hopes and dreams for your life together, while the sun and moon depict the energy you bring to each other, creating balance.
Ideas: Shooting stars and meteor streaks, constellations, planets, galaxy and nebula, moon phases, sun, moon and other celestial bodies.
4. Puzzle Pieces
Alternatively, “You complete me” can be expressed through puzzle pieces. A puzzle ink is a fun but deep way of suggesting that each person contributes something valuable and unique to the relationship, all while being interconnected. For couples joined at the hip, puzzle pieces are the literal interpretation of an unbreakable bond between two distinct individuals.
Ideas: Puzzle pieces in the shape of a heart, personalized with initials, favorite or complementary colors, pieces with nature emerging from them, and more.
5. Geographic Coordinates
Geographic coordinate tattoos are relatively abstract and not immediately recognizable or obvious to others, making them comparatively more private and profound to those who bear them. These inks feature the latitude and longitude coordinates of a specific place and help to commemorate a specific memory through their location.
Ideas: First date, vacation spot, hometown, honeymoon destination, wedding location.
6. Complementary Symbols
These refer to designs that work together in a harmonious and sometimes unexpected manner. Although the connection may not be as apparent as puzzle pieces or halves of a whole, they still relay a meaningful and cohesive message.
Ideas: Sun and moon, heart and mind, ocean and sky, lock and key, book and quill.
7. Fictional Characters
You can celebrate the shared interests with your partner by using fictional characters from your favorite TV shows and movies. Select characters that you personally connect with or admire for their qualities or the themes they represent. While deeply meaningful, this idea also adds an element of whimsy and fun to the otherwise serious commitment of getting a tattoo.
Ideas: Han Solo and Princess Leia, Finn and Jake, Carl and Ellie, Spiderman and Mary Jane, Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask.
8. Rings and Bands
This is the wedding ring that’ll never get misplaced. Instead of traditional physical rings, many couples are now opting for matching tattoo rings on their ring fingers. Not only does this modern approach provide more comfort when “wearing”, but it also won’t break the bank, offering a truly memorable and permanent symbol of your official union.
Ideas: Thin bands, ring accents, roman numerals, heartbeat lines, vines.
9. Elements of Nature
Elements of nature are a wonderful source of inspiration for couple tattoos, especially if the both of you are outdoorsy, planet-loving or nature enthusiasts. Since the beginning of tattoo history, individuals have tapped into nature for various tattoo designs, such as the Japanese koi fish and the European oak tree. Rich in significance, calming and visually stunning, it won’t be difficult to find complementary or matching nature-inspired tattoos to illustrate your love.
Ideas: Tree and roots, waves and mountains, flowers and bees, birds in flight, lightning and thunder.
10. Twin Tattoos
You can’t go wrong with sharing the same concept for a couple tattoo. However, just because the design is the same doesn’t mean it has to be completely identical. Add your own personal twists and experiment with different placements, modifying it so it becomes uniquely yours. This way, you’ll carry a symbolic piece of your shared journey that reflects both your connection and personality—without the need for a carbon copy.
At Ink By Finch, our tattoo artists bring years of experience and expertise to every design. Whether you’re single and ready to mingle or in a committed relationship, we’re here to help you find the perfect tattoo that reflects who you are and what matters most to you. From minimalist to intricate pieces, we are dedicated to bringing your vision to life with precision and passion. Trust us to realize the body art you’ve always dreamed of, and walk away with something you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Find out more about Ink By Finch or make an appointment with us today.