50 Tattoo Ideas for Women Over 60.

There’s a saying that life begins after 60, and at Lateral, we couldn’t agree more. 

We’re here for women who have no intention of stopping and who see their post-working years as a chance to express themselves, try new things, and live life on their own terms.

We believe age should never be a limit. 

From travelling somewhere new and rediscovering old passions, or doing something bold just because you want to, your 60s and 70s should be about freedom, confidence, and self-expression.

So go ahead, book that holiday you’ve always dreamed of, dig out your old roller skates, or finally get that tattoo you’ve been thinking about.

In this guide, we’re exploring 50 tattoo ideas for women over 60. 

Whether it’s your first tattoo or your second or third, here’s all the inspiration you need to celebrate this exciting chapter of life.

Can You Get A Tattoo In Later Life?

If you’ve found yourself asking, ‘Can you get a tattoo later in life?’ Lateral proves that you can.

Tattoos are a great way of increasing body confidence and can be personalised to your taste. 

Of course, many women may hold back on getting a tattoo after 60 due to fear of judgment or simply feeling too old. But we want to tell you this: you’re never too old to do something amazing. 

Tattoos are available in a wide range of designs, with some being more discreet than others. Even the smallest symbols can look great tattooed. For example, if you have led a life chasing history and visiting ancient sites, a century-old symbol could be the perfect first tattoo idea. 

Are Tattoos Popular With Women Over 60?

It’s no secret that tattoos are more popular with younger generations. However, there are a huge number of women over 60 with tattoos. 

Across the world, tattoos are used to mark cultural belonging, express personality, and are sometimes designed and inked just for playfulness. There are no limitations to the types of tattoos we see on women over 60. 

If you’d like a tattoo, now’s the best time to take the plunge and get that piece of body art you deserve.

Best Tattoo Styles For Older Women.

When it comes to tattoos for older women, there are no rules. 

The best tattoo style is simply the one that feels right for you. That said, some tattoo designs tend to be more popular with an older woman, especially those that age well with the body and skin.

Fine line tattoos are a common choice for a first tattoo, as they are often subtle and easy to personalise. 

Floral designs, small symbols, and simple line work can look elegant without feeling overwhelming. 

These styles also suit areas of the body where the skin may be softer or more prone to change with age.

Minimalist tattoos are another favourite. Clean shapes, meaningful words, or delicate symbols can carry just as much love and emotion as larger body art. 

For women who prefer something more expressive, illustrative tattoos or softly shaded designs can still work beautifully when done by an experienced artist.

Placement is just as important as style. Many women over 60 choose areas like the forearm, shoulder, ankle, or upper back, where the tattoo can be easily shown or kept private. 

A skilled tattooist will always take your age, skin, and comfort into account to help you choose a tattoo that looks great and feels right.

Ideas for Tattoos for Over 60s.

Tattoo ideas for women over 60 often come from lived experience. Your life, memories, and passions can all be turned into meaningful tattoos.

Whether you want a new tattoo that marks a milestone or something playful that reflects your personality, the options are endless.

Many women choose symbols that represent love, family, or personal growth. 

This could be a flower linked to a special memory, a word that holds meaning, or a symbol that reflects strength or freedom. 

Even the smallest tattoo can carry a powerful message and become a lasting piece of body art.

Nature Inspired Tattoos

1. Rose

A rose tattoo is a classic symbol of love and resilience, making it a strong choice for tattoos for older women. It works well as subtle body art for a first tattoo.

2. Lavender

Lavender represents calm and balance, which can reflect confidence that comes with age. This tattoo idea suits women who prefer delicate and understated tattoos.

3. Cherry Blossom

Cherry blossom tattoos symbolise life and change, which many women connect with in their later years.

4. Fern Frond

A fern frond tattoo is linked to growth and renewal, making it ideal for an older woman marking a new chapter.

5. Dandelion

Dandelion tattoos often represent freedom and strength. This design is popular with women who want a light but meaningful tattoo.

6. Sunflower

Sunflowers symbolise positivity and warmth, which makes them a positive tattoo choice. They suit women who want body art that reflects optimism and joy.

7. Tree of Life

The tree of life is a powerful symbol of connection, family, and experience. It is a meaningful tattoo for women who want to reflect a life well lived.

8. Waves

Wave tattoos often represent resilience and flow, which can feel relevant with age and experience. This simple design works well as a first tattoo.

9. Seedling Growing

A growing seedling symbolises new beginnings at any age. It’s a positive tattoo idea for women embracing change later in life.

10. Sun and Moon

The sun and moon represent balance and harmony. This tattoo design suits women who want symbols linked to both strength and calm.

Life Symbols

11. Infinity Symbol

An infinity tattoo represents endless love and continuity. It’s a popular and discreet tattoo for older women.

12. Spiral

Spiral tattoos symbolise life’s journey and personal growth. This design reflects how experience shapes the body and mind over time.

13. Mandala

Mandala tattoos are often linked to balance and reflection. They work well for women who enjoy detailed tattoo designs with deeper meaning.

14. Anchor

Anchor tattoos symbolise stability and grounding. This is a strong tattoo idea for women who value resilience and strength.

15. Eye of Horus

The Eye of Horus represents protection and wisdom. It suits women who are drawn to historical or symbolic body art.

16. Celtic Knot

Celtic knot tattoos represent eternity and connection. They are a meaningful option for women with cultural or family ties.

17. Cross

A cross tattoo is a personal symbol of faith for many women. It can be designed simply to suit different ages and preferences.

18. Buddhist Om

The Om symbol represents peace and awareness. This tattoo design suits women who value spirituality and calm.

19. Clockface

A clockface tattoo can represent time, memories, and reflection. It’s a thoughtful tattoo idea for marking important life stages.

20. Compass Rose

Compass tattoos symbolise direction and guidance. This is a popular tattoo for women who value independence and adventure.

Spiritual Tattoos

21. Angel Wings

Angel wings often symbolise protection and remembrance. This tattoo can be deeply personal and meaningful for older women.

22. Lotus Flower

Lotus tattoos represent growth and resilience. They are well suited to women who feel stronger with age.

23. Prayer Hands

Prayer hands tattoos symbolise faith and gratitude. This design works well as subtle body art.

24. Rosary Beads

Rosary bead tattoos reflect devotion and personal belief. They are often chosen by women with strong spiritual values.

25. Crescent Moon

The crescent moon represents change and renewal. It’s a gentle tattoo design that suits women at any stage of life.

26. Dove

Dove tattoos symbolise peace and hope. This design works well as a soft and positive tattoo.

27. Seed of Life

The seed of life symbol represents creation and connection. It’s a meaningful tattoo for women drawn to sacred symbols.

28. Olive Branches

Olive branches symbolise peace and reconciliation. This tattoo design is simple and elegant on the body.

29. Ying Yang

Ying yang tattoos represent balance and harmony. They suit women who value acceptance and understanding with age.

30. Candle Flame

A candle flame tattoo symbolises light and remembrance. It can reflect guidance and inner strength.

Personal Tattoos

31. Handwritten Tattoo

A handwritten tattoo adds a personal touch to body art. It’s often chosen for names, messages, or memories.

32. Birth Flower

Birth flower tattoos link directly to identity and age. They are a popular tattoo choice for older women.

33. Lock and Key

Lock and key tattoos symbolise trust and connection. This design can represent relationships or self worth.

34. Pet Memory

A pet memory tattoo is a touching way to honour companionship. Many women choose this as a meaningful new tattoo.

35. Important Dates

Date tattoos mark moments that shaped your life. They are a simple and discreet form of body art.

36. Heart

A heart tattoo is a timeless symbol of love. It works well for women who prefer classic tattoo designs.

37. Constellation

Constellation tattoos connect to identity and guidance. They are a subtle and elegant tattoo idea.

38. Horoscope

Horoscope tattoos reflect personality and belief. This design suits women who feel connected to astrology.

39. Portrait

Portrait tattoos are deeply personal and meaningful. They are often chosen to honour loved ones.

40. Names

Name tattoos reflect love and connection. They remain one of the most popular tattoos for women of any age.

Artistic Tattoos

41. Swallow

Swallow tattoos symbolise loyalty and freedom. This design has long been popular across generations.

42. Butterfly

Butterfly tattoos represent transformation and growth. They are especially meaningful for women embracing change later in life.

43. Musical Reference

Music inspired tattoos can represent favourite songs or life moments. They are a creative form of body art.

44. Abstract Pattern

Abstract tattoos allow complete personal expression. They suit women who want unique tattoo designs.

45. Animals

Animal tattoos can reflect personality traits or emotional connections. They remain popular with tattooed women of all ages.

46. Feather

Feather tattoos symbolise freedom and lightness. This design works well as a fine line tattoo.

47. Line Art Face

Line art faces are modern and minimalist tattoo designs. They suit women who prefer contemporary body art.

48. Landscape Outline

Landscape tattoos reflect memories of meaningful places. They are ideal for women who value travel and experience.

49. Stars

Star tattoos symbolise hope and guidance. They are a simple and versatile option for a first tattoo.

50. Feather

A feather tattoo symbolises freedom, resilience, and personal growth, making it a meaningful choice for tattoos for older women.