In a world where dating has become more complex, certain modern trends leave some people feeling thankful they left the scene earlier. Among these trends, the rise of large and visible tattoos has garnered particular attention. Tattoos once associated with prison gangs or rock bands are now commonplace, and some of the most heavily inked individuals in music, such as Travis Barker from Blink-182, have head-to-toe tattoos, showcasing an extreme shift in societal acceptance.
However, this cultural change isn’t limited to the music world. Professional athletes, like David Beckham, are now frequently seen sporting visible tattoos at high-profile events, including state banquets. Beckham’s tattoos, which include lyrics and numbers associated with his football career, stand out even in formal settings, challenging traditional expectations of professionalism and decorum.
Tattoo artist Leonardo Blackbirds, who works at Till You Die Tattoos in Birmingham, has noticed a significant increase in clients from all walks of life seeking visible tattoos. According to him, people from hospitals, banks, and law enforcement are requesting tattoos that would have been deemed inappropriate or unprofessional a decade ago. He reports that sleeves are among the most requested designs, with some clients spending up to £2,000 for a full sleeve of tattoos.
While Beckham’s influence has certainly affected tattoo trends, Blackbirds notes that many of his younger clients have been influenced by pop stars like Zayn Malik and Ed Sheeran, whose tattoos are often criticized for being poor in quality and design.
This shift in tattoo culture has reached the military as well. The Army, which once had strict regulations regarding tattoos, now allows them on the back of the hand and neck. Even the RAF has adjusted its stance, acknowledging that visible tattoos are part of modern-day society.
Despite this broader acceptance, there are concerns about tattoos in certain professional settings, particularly in healthcare. For instance, a private dental clinic’s hygienist had a poorly executed sleeve tattoo that distracted patients, and a pediatric therapist’s Disney princess tattoos diverted a child’s attention during a session. This highlights the challenge of balancing personal expression with professionalism, especially when tattoos may appear out of place or unprofessional in clinical environments.
Not all tattoos are created equal, and many are considered subpar. The so-called “tramp stamp” of the past is an example of a design trend that many regret later. Blackbirds himself avoids tattooing visible areas unless the client already has tattoos in those spots, citing ethical concerns. He emphasizes that tattoos, while potentially beautiful, require thoughtful consideration of their long-term impact, especially given that tastes and perceptions can change over time.
For those contemplating a tattoo as part of a mid-life crisis, seeking a skilled artist like Blackbirds is advisable. However, it’s important to keep in mind that neck tattoos, in particular, can still make a strong and often off-putting impression. One individual, who accidentally left a fake neck tattoo on after a Halloween party, found that it created an unexpected barrier, repelling social interactions and offering a new level of personal space.
In conclusion, while tattoos have become more mainstream and widely accepted in society, certain professional settings, like healthcare, may still find them incongruous or distracting. As tattoos continue to gain popularity, individuals should carefully consider where and how visible tattoos may affect their professional image.
Related Topics