Getting tattooed requires hours of sitting still in awkward positions while an artist works intimately close to your skin. Beyond the pain of the needle, your comfort during the session is heavily dictated by one simple factor: what you wear.
If you show up in tight jeans for a thigh tattoo, or a rigid button-up shirt for a rib piece, you are going to be miserable, and you will make your artist’s job incredibly difficult.
Here is the ultimate guide to dressing for your tattoo appointment, broken down by body placement.
General Rules for All Appointments
Regardless of where you are getting tattooed, follow these three universal rules:
1. Wear Dark Colors: Tattoo ink, blood, plasma, and green soap will splatter. If you wear your favorite white t-shirt, it will be ruined. Wear black or dark grey clothing that you do not care about.
2. Dress in Layers: Tattoo shops are kept notoriously cold. The AC runs high to keep the artists from sweating and to maintain a sanitary environment. However, when you get tattooed, your body goes into a mild state of shock, which can cause you to shiver. Bring a zip-up hoodie or a small blanket.
3. Prioritize Loose Fits: You do not want tight fabric rubbing against a raw, freshly tattooed area when you leave the shop.
What to Wear by Tattoo Placement
Arms (Forearm, Bicep, Sleeve)
- Best Choice: A sleeveless tank top or a loose t-shirt that can easily be rolled up to the shoulder.
- Avoid: Long-sleeve shirts, tight athletic shirts, or sweaters.
Legs (Calf, Ankle)
- Best Choice: Loose basketball shorts or sweatpants that can be easily rolled up past the knee.
- Avoid: Skinny jeans. If you wear tight jeans, you will have to take your pants completely off in the shop, which is awkward for everyone.
Thighs and Hips
- Best Choice for Men: Loose, short athletic shorts that can be pulled up to the hip bone.
- Best Choice for Women: Bikini bottoms that tie at the sides (so you can untie one side if needed while staying covered), loose skirts, or a large oversized t-shirt worn as a dress.
- Avoid: Any stiff denim, leggings, or shapewear.
Chest and Sternum
- Best Choice for Men: A button-up shirt worn backward or simply no shirt at all.
- Best Choice for Women: A zip-up hoodie worn backward (so the artist has access to the chest but your arms and back stay warm), or a bikini top/sports bra that clasps in the front or can be easily taped out of the way. Pasties are also highly recommended for sternum pieces.
Ribs and Torso
- Best Choice: A loose, oversized button-up shirt. You can unbutton it entirely and use medical tape to secure the fabric to your chest and back, exposing only the ribs.
- Avoid: Standard t-shirts. You will have to take them completely off or roll them up awkwardly under your armpit.
Back (Full Back, Shoulder Blades)
- Best Choice: A button-up shirt worn backward. You can drape your arms through the sleeves to stay warm while your entire back is exposed to the artist.
Footwear Matters
You might not be getting a foot tattoo, but your choice of shoes still matters. You are going to be sitting or lying down for hours. Wear slide-on sandals or comfortable sneakers that you can easily slip off if you need to adjust your position on the table.
A Note on Hygiene
Your artist has to be inches away from your body for hours. Please be respectful:
- Shower the morning of your appointment.
- Wear deodorant.
- Do not douse yourself in heavy cologne or perfume; strong scents in a small, enclosed studio can cause headaches.
Conclusion
When deciding what to wear to your tattoo appointment, leave fashion at the door. Comfort, accessibility, and the willingness to get ink on the fabric should dictate your wardrobe choices. By dressing appropriately, you allow the artist to focus entirely on giving you the best tattoo possible without fighting against tight fabric.
