As a milestone birthday approaches, the notion of getting a tattoo has become an increasingly tempting idea. Despite knowing that age is just a number, I can’t help but feel the need to check a few “midlife crisis” items off my list. While buying a red motorbike and running off with a younger man are firmly not on my agenda, the thought of getting inked is something I can’t shake off.
Until now, I’ve been a definite “no” on the tattoo front. I’ve always been too indecisive and overly critical about design choices. I worry that I might regret it shortly after getting it done, and I often find myself having nightmares about a tattoo I can’t erase. Despite these reservations, the idea of getting a tattoo remains appealing—one of those experiences that screams “you only live once” (YOLO).
Recently, while at a swimming pool, I noticed several tattoos on peeling skin that looked poorly executed, leading to thoughts of the regrettable nature of some ink. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that I could pull off a tattoo better than the ones I’ve seen. Perhaps it’s because I feel like there’s little time left to regret any decision I make.
I recall my grandmother telling me, as a teenager, that “the world is your oyster.” Now, I realize it still is, although perhaps not as whole as it once seemed. One thing is certain: as I approach this milestone, I have fewer years to look back and wish I had done something.
The fear of pain is another hurdle. I’ve never been particularly brave when it comes to dental work, and the idea of enduring the discomfort of getting a tattoo is intimidating. What if I can’t handle it halfway through? I can’t imagine walking out of the studio with only part of a design etched on me, like a half-finished tattoo of The Scotsman’s masthead.
In my quest for inspiration, I’ve spent time browsing tattoo artists’ portfolios on Instagram, where the sheer variety of styles is overwhelming. The tattoo world has evolved since my youth, when choices were limited to the likes of LOVE and HATE knuckle tattoos, barbed wire designs, Celtic symbols, or Chinese characters. Now, tattoos range from photo-realistic portraits of pets and children to abstract art, motivational quotes, and vintage styles inspired by icons like Amy Winehouse.
Trends seem to shift constantly, from intricate micro designs of wild grasses to vibrant, realistic gems. Quirky tattoos, such as those featuring Spongebob, tacos, or My Little Pony, are also popular, as are more unique choices like croissants—a trend I find charming but not quite right for me. What speaks to me, though, are botanical tattoos, like peonies, magnolias, or iris flowers. I feel they match my personal style and offer timeless appeal.
However, I’m particular about the design. I’m not interested in anything too “twee” and want to avoid bright reds and purples, as they can sometimes give the appearance of an irritated skin condition. Roses, which have become a bit of a cliché, are also off the table.
As for placement, I’m leaning towards the upper arm, at the back, where I won’t be constantly reminded of it. I prefer tattoos on areas of my body I feel comfortable with, like my shoulders and arms, rather than on my legs, which I’m less fond of.
One aspect of tattoos that gives me some comfort is that floral designs seem to have enduring appeal. Unlike the trend for Chinese symbols from the ’90s—many of which my friends regret due to inaccurate translations—floral tattoos feel more timeless. For some of my friends, the symbols they chose years ago no longer hold meaning, and while tattoos can be removed, it’s often not as easy or painless as it seems.
Ironically, I once considered tattoo removal as a backup plan if my career at The Scotsman didn’t pan out. After all, with so many people opting for tattoos these days, it seemed like a business opportunity waiting to happen.
For now, I remain in the browsing phase. No final decision has been made, and I’m not ready to commit just yet. As that significant birthday looms, though, I wonder if a small, whimsical croissant tattoo might just be the perfect way to mark the occasion.
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