How many styles of clothing are out there? How many music genres? Hell, how many colors exist? These are tough questions, considering every person has an opinion on just how much variety in a style or color is allowed before it becomes a new, distinct subset all its own.

Unfortunately, this means we can’t tell you about every tattoo style in the world – but we can get damn close.

Tattoo Styles | The Basics

A tattoo style is the general look and feel of a tattoo, not the matter or image/writing. Think of it like any other art form – you can tell when an artist is painting in a specific style, regardless of what the painting depicts.

Though many tattoo styles have been around for decades or even centuries, some have adapted or blended with others – creating a melding hybrid. When you add that every artist has their own style, flair, or edge, you see why the lines between tattoo styles are blurry at best. Regardless, here are all of the most common, popular, and distinct tattoo styles that we at Lamar Street Tattoo Club loves.

All the Most Popular Tattoo Styles

Classic Americana Tattoo Style

These can be called ‘Traditional’ or ‘Old School’ tattoos as well – and perhaps the best way to describe them is to picture a Navy man in the 1930s. Bold black lines and bright colors are trademarks of the classic Americana tattoo style. Often, the imagery contains themes of the ocean or nautical imagery, pinups, predators, hearts, roses, thorns, and daggers.

See examples here!

Neo Traditional Tattoo Style

Like their precursor, Neo Traditional tattoos often have bold lines but a more illustrative look, with brighter, more modern colors and more dimension without exaggerated 3D effects. Neo Traditional tattoo styles are like a comic book or graphic novel on your skin.

See examples here!

New School Tattoo Style

If you move a bit further away from Americana and past Neo Traditional, then you land at New School tattoos which have a distinct graffiti or cartoon feel, along with bright colors and frequent pop culture references.

See examples here!

Japanese Tattoo Style

Classic Japanese tattoo styles have been popular for centuries. They often tell stories, use symbolism, and have historical or traditional meanings. Often, Japanese style tattoos cover large areas, like the back, arms, or legs.

See examples here!

Black & Gray Tattoo Style

As the name describes, the black and gray tattoo style really only limits colors used, as any subject matter can be depicted. This style tends to be more realistic with shading in grays by diluting the black ink to gather a spectrum of shades.

See examples here!

Portraiture Tattoo Style

The Portraiture tattoo style is a genre within realism. However, as the name suggests, this style is used for the likeness of people, often with incredible accuracy in black, white, and grayscale.

See examples here!

Stick & Poke Tattoo Style

Stick-n-poke uses a single needle to create simple designs, this is reminiscent of many cultures’ traditional tattooing styles. Often, this style uses thick and bold lines, usually in black, with small decorative dots or patterns.

See examples here!

Realism Tattoo Style

The Realism tattoo style is exactly as it sounds…real-looking tattoos. This tattoo style looks like a photograph and can be in color or black and grayscale. Realism tattoos are often used to commemorate someone or something, as realistic tattoos can portray anything from scenery or objects to animals and people.

See examples here!

Blackwork Tattoo Style

Blackwork tattoo style originally came from the first tribal tattoos, made of thick and bold black lines in a variety of geometric shapes and patterns. Now, artists often add in imagery derived from different sources to create an image that is unique and seems to capture swirling movement in different forms around the body.

See examples here!

Biomechanical Tattoo Style

These tattoos are often done freehanded and are meant to adapt to the individual’s body and muscle movement. And, as the name lends, it is also meant to mimic machinery hidden under the skin.

See examples here!

Sketch Tattoo Style

Sketch tattoos are meant to mimic hand-drawn images. This can be done with resemblances to brush or pen marks, incomplete strokes, overlapping lines, or ‘incomplete’ elements. In addition, the shading is often bold and rough as well, with a heavy emphasis on negative space.

See examples here!

Fine Line or Aesthetic Tattoo Style

The Fine Line or Aesthetic tattoo style is characterized most often by thin lines with no shading or gradation of colors. These tattoos emphasize the image, the lines, and not the colors, textures, or shading. They are also often delicate due to their thin lines, though this doesn’t mean they have to be small.

See examples here!

Geometric Tattoo Style

Geometric tattoos are very popular yet have the ability to be timeless, as they are mainly shapes and lines, which – let’s be honest – will always be in style. Using geometric designs on bodies that are decidedly not geometric is a stunning contrast. A combination of geometric and organic/floral is often used to soften the otherwise ‘hard’ shapes.

See examples here!

Realistic Trash Polka Tattoo Style

Realistic Trash Polka is instantly recognizable for its collage-like feel, as it can include almost anything, all jumbled together in a unique and pleasantly ‘chaotic’ blend. Trash Polka tattoo style can mix blackwork, realism, and a little splash of everything else as well and usually only has black and red.

See examples here!

Surrealism Tattoo Style

Surrealism tattoos are just like the general art genre of surrealism. This gives artists more material and options to work with, and the more creativity given, the more amazing the artwork. This tattoo style is about fantasy and is the opposite of realism.

See examples here!

Watercolor Tattoo Style

Watercolor tattoos are bright, vivid, and look like a watercolor painting with color changes and gradients in a rainbow of hues. This style is softer and more watered at the edges, looking much more like paint than traditional ink.

See examples here!

Tribal Tattoo Style

Many cultures hold as the originators of tribal style tattooing, including the Aztec and Borneo cultures, Samoa, Hawaii, India, Polynesia, and the Maori people of New Zealand. This tattoo style is mainly characterized by solid black dots and lines, traditionally meant for ritualistic or sacred places, as well as storytelling and memories.

See examples here!

Illustrative Tattoo Style

Illustrative tattoos come from both traditionalism and realism. They typically use black outlines, the same as traditional tattoos, and can have color or be only black. What differentiates these tattoos from traditional ones is that it aims to look drawn or animated instead of photo-realistic. This is one of the instances where two styles can blend to make a new one.

See examples here!

Chicano Tattoo Style

The Chicano tattoo style often shows women, skulls, flowers, and religious figures, often in black and grayscale. This style has heavy symbolism and meaning, connections to the Chicano culture, as well as religious and group dynamic connotations.

See examples here!

We Know Our Tattoos

Lamar Street Tattoo Club has diverse and talented tattoo artists, which means we are practiced in many styles. Ask us about yours! Whether you already know exactly what you want or you are looking to collaborate, send us a submission form and we’ll get back to you with a consultation, appointment time, and tattoo artist recommendation.

Walk-ins Always Welcome, Appointments Preferred.

At Lamar Street Tattoo Club, our clients benefit from the passion, experience, and craftsmanship that our elite group of tattoo artists provide. We have actively screened our tattoo artists so you can be sure our vetted practitioners are some of the best tattoo artists in Dallas, proudly creating the best tattoos from the best tattoo shop!

But don’t just let us brag on our own team – learn a little bit about each of our tattoo artists, their specialties, and histories, and make your own call…

Our Tattoo Artists:

Josh Hall

Proprietor of Lamar Street Tattoo Club

With over 20 years of experience as a professional tattoo artist in Dallas and 8 years as a licensed paramedic before that, Josh strives to bring a higher standard to the craft of tattooing. Named by the Dallas Observer as one of the best tattoo artists in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, he believes in providing an unparalleled customer experience.

Josh has been heavily influenced by the early American and Eastern tattooing styles and has enjoyed creating many pieces of permanent artwork in styles like American traditional, Japanese, Mehndi, Botanical and anatomic. He is also a fan of creating the popular ornamental and blackwork tattoos. As one of the top tattoo artists, his American traditional tattoos in Dallas are sought after.

“Get it done right the first time, it’s only permanent.”

Jake Johnson 

Jake’s Background

For over 25 years, Jake has been tattooing in Dallas. A native of Lubbock, Texas, he realized a love for art and tattooing at an early age. He would move to Dallas to accommodate the apprenticeship required to earn his spot in the trade.

Jake enjoys collaborating with clients on custom pieces and working in many genres including realism, traditional, neo-traditional, and geometric.

Bob Lawson 

Bob’s Background

Bob is a native Texan from right here in the Metroplex. Bob has been a fixture in Deep Ellum/Downtown Dallas shops for over a decade but started his tattooing career 6 years ago. Bob has always had a love of the arts and previously worked in drafting, architecture, and skateboard deck design. Bob prefers to work with fine lines and old-school American traditional styles. 

Cameron Gamel 

Cam’s Background

Cam Gamel has been professionally tattooing in DFW since 2007. After graduating high school, he served proudly in the US Army, then enrolled in college to obtain an associate’s degree in graphic design. Cam has mainly worked in high-volume street shops where versatility in tattoo styles is expected in daily demands. However, while he can perform different tattoo styles, he prefers bold traditional tattoos and Chicano style black and gray.

Cam’s main goals are to provide a tattoo that looks great, that you’re proud to show off, and that will age properly with you. 

With Lamar Street Tattoo Club and our diverse and talented tattoo artists, you will get a comprehensive consultation, superior service, detailed aftercare, and an amazing piece of permanent artwork to show off. Whether you know exactly the style and form you want, or you are open to collaborating, send us a submission form and we’ll get back right away with a consultation, appointment time, and tattoo artist recommendation.

Walk-ins Always Welcome, Appointments Preferred.

Lamar Street Tattoo Club has been your trusted tattoo shop for years, but we also offer the opposite service – no, not bad tattoos, but removing them.

We offer a superior solution for laser tattoo removal in Dallas, Texas. And as we’ve upgraded our technology to the cutting-edge Astanza Duality, you can rest assured that our process is the best. We don’t settle for anything less than the best, and neither should you.

We couldn’t be more excited to bring on new technology and provide the best tattoo removal in Dallas. Our Duality laser delivers better, faster, and safer results for ALL skin types I through VI. We are also the only laser tattoo removal in Dallas, TX exclusively offering treatments using the DESCRIBE® PFD Patch.

Our Tattoo Removal Process:

In general, laser tattoo removal works differently than other lasers. For example, unlike a laser pointer or a continuous beam of light, tattoo removal lasers produce pulses of light. Each pulse of energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the tattoo ink. As the tattoo ink particles absorb the energy, they heat up and then break down into smaller fragments that your body naturally rids.

Your immune system recognizes tattoo ink as a foreign matter, but since ink particles are usually too large and stubborn to be removed as they are, the energy pulse from the laser is needed to break it down to a size your body can deal with. These tiny fragments are then removed, or “flushed” out naturally by the body’s immune system. Eventually, the tattoo fades in much the same way that a bruise fades over time

Laser tattoo removal is the greatest tool for perfecting artwork, especially cover-up tattoos. Lamar Street Tattoo Club can lighten a tattoo before a cover-up, giving you more versatility with your new tattoo, and your cover-up tattoo artist more flexibility with their artistry.

Tattoo Removal Most Common Questions:

Can I Get Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment?

Laser tattoo removal treatments are safe and effective on all ink colors and are safe for all skin types. However, darker skin types or patients who are immunocompromised may require extra care. One of our best tattoo removal or cover-up tattoo artists in Dallas will consult with you and customize your treatment.

How Long Is A Tattoo Removal Treatment Session?

Generally, a laser tattoo removal session will last no longer than 30 minutes. However, we must assess your tattoo first to give you the most accurate estimate of time. After your first tattoo removal treatment session, we will have a much better idea of how long your sessions will last.

Is The Procedure Painful?

There is some discomfort associated with the procedure. Some patients have described it as a rubber band being constantly snapped at your skin. However, we all experience pain differently and tolerance is a variable factor. Some clients may choose numbing solutions to maximize their comfort as well.

How Can I Help Further The Healing Process?

We recommend applying an ice pack or cold compress over the gauze bandage several times a day to help reduce bruising and swelling. It is also important to exercise and increase blood circulation so that the immune system may carry the ink particles out faster.

Speaking of aftercare…

Tattoo Removal Aftercare in Dallas

Dallas is sunny quite often, as is most of Texas, so the aftercare of tattoo removal may be a little different than in other areas that have seasons with little sun.

The laser tattoo removal treatment may create a superficial burn wound. This means there will be immediate whitening, swelling, or redness of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Some clients may then develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 8-72 hours, which can last for 1-2 weeks. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Some patients may experience bruising or swelling, which usually fades over the first week after treatment.

1. Apply a Cold Compress

Applying cold compresses can help ease some of the discomfort and inflammation from the treatment. We recommend icing the treated area in regular 15-minute intervals for the first 24 hours.

2. Keep Your Tattoo Removal Area Clean & Dry

Clean the area gently with soap and water and then pat the area dry. You may apply a thin coating of ointment, which we will provide, up to three times a day. For the first three days KEEP THE AREA COVERED with a sterile dressing. It is of the utmost importance that you avoid sun exposure to the area during the first 3 days.

3. Don’t Mess with the Scab or Blister

Should you scab, don’t pick or expose the scabbed area, as it may result in infection, scarring, or permanent pigment change. Shaving should be avoided in the treated area until it is completely healed.

4. Gentle Showers, No Baths, Hot Tubs,  or Pools

It is ok to shower after the treatment but take care to avoid high-pressure water hitting the treated area. Any form of soaking is not recommended until all blistering and scabbing are completely healed as they may increase the risk of infection.

5. Exercise

Exercise is generally safe after treatment taking into account the other aftercare instructions provided.

6. Protect Against the Dallas Sunshine

Wear a sunblock SPF of 25 or higher, protecting against UVA/UVB rays over the area for the full time between sessions while removal is performed. Limiting sun exposure between treatments will reduce the amount of tan in the area, thereby reducing the risk of side effects. Do not wear makeup or any cream on the treated area unless recommended by our office for 48 hours.

7. Contact Us with Questions or Concerns

If the area looks infected (honey-colored crusting and oozing or spreading redness), if you experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any other complications develop, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact us immediately.

8. Always Be Safe

Of course, if you have any extreme reaction, please contact your regular physician, go to the emergency department or call 911.

With Lamar Street Tattoo Club, you can expect to receive comprehensive consultations, superior service, and detailed aftercare to ensure that your tattoo removal goes well and you get the best results. Whether you want a tattoo removed or covered up, reach out to us for a consultation.

The foundation of an exceptional tattoo shop is its history, its specialties, and the quality of its artists’ work – and at Lamar Street Tattoo Club, ours are all among the best.

Lamar Street Tattoo Club has always been the end game for American electric tattoo artist, Josh Hall, as a place where he and other artists can deliver the best tattoos in Dallas with special emphasis on aftercare, health, and safety.

“At Lamar Street Tattoo Club, we are proud to show our clients a higher standard of tattooing. From how our tattoo shop feels to the execution of the artistic vision, our clients have enjoyed the honest experience our artists provide. By always striving to create the best atmosphere in Dallas at the best tattoo shop in Dallas, we have built a reputation of creating the best tattoos in Dallas!”

History of Lamar Street Tattoo Club

Created by head tattooist, Josh Hall, after 15 years of tattooing in other people’s shops, Josh wanted to open a tattoo shop that was uniquely his own, where emphasis could be given on proper aftercare, procedure, and quality.

Josh took his first customer on 01/05/2013, and after just a couple of years, he expanded the shop from a small 2-artist spot to a comfy 4-artist spot by knocking down a wall.

This means Lamar Street Tattoo Club has always been in the same historic location on Lamar Street.

“We got a bit bigger, upgraded, and expanded, but here at 1709 S Lamar Street we have remained.”

After 2 years, Lamar Street Tattoo Club branched out to specialize in laser tattoo removals as well, and have upgraded their laser multiple times since then to stay on the cutting edge. Lamar Street Tattoo Club has had a few artists and front room staff come and go over the years, but they are always growing, expanding, and improving.

Artists of Lamar Street Tattoo Club

Josh Hall | Proprietor & Tattooist

With over 20 years of experience as a professional tattoo artist in Dallas – and 8 years as a licensed paramedic, Josh strives to bring a higher standard to the craft of tattooing. Named by the Dallas Observer as one of the best tattoo artists in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, he believes in providing an unparalleled customer experience and end artwork.

Early American, Eastern, American Traditional, Japanese, Mehndi, Botanical, Ornamental, Blackwork, and Anatomic.

Jake Johnson | Tattooist

For over 25 years, Jake has been tattooing in Dallas, Texas. A native of Lubbock, he realized a love for art and tattooing at an early age. This led him to move to Dallas to accommodate the apprenticeship required to earn his spot in the trade.

Realism, Traditional, Neo-Traditional, and Geometric.

Bob Lawson | Tattooist

Bob is a native-born Texan from the Metroplex. He has been a fixture in Deep Ellum / Downtown Dallas shops for over a decade but started his tattooing career 6 years ago. Bob has always had a love of the arts and previously worked in drafting, architecture, and skateboard deck design.

Fine Line, Old-School American Traditional.

Cameron Gamel | Tattooist

Cam Gamel has been professionally tattooing in DFW since 2007. After graduating high school, he served proudly in the US Army, then enrolled in college to obtain an associate degree in graphic design.

Bold Traditional, Chicano Black, and Grayscale.

Specialties & Services of Lamar Street Tattoo Club

Health & Safety

Lamar Street Tattoo Club is fully licensed and in good standing with the Texas Department of Health. Our staff and facility stay up to date on all certificates, requirements, and training. From prevention of cross-contamination to sterilization, with Josh’s background as a paramedic, his standard is high.

Superior Aftercare

A lack of tattoo aftercare can make a great tattoo look subpar real quick – and Lamar Street Tattoo Club wants to preserve your tattoo not only for you but for our personal pride in our work. Learn more about proper tattoo aftercare here.

Laser Tattoo Removal

We offer superior solutions for laser tattoo removal in Dallas. Lamar Street Tattoo Club uses only cutting-edge Astanza Duality. The Duality is backed by Astanza, the leading laser manufacturer for tattoo removal lasers. Learn more about our laser tattoo removal here.

Custom Tattoos

A custom tattoo is one you and your artist design together, and are one of the specialties of Lamar Street Tattoo Club. Custom tattoos can be something you already have an idea of, something you need help fleshing out, or something you are open to suggestions for. A custom tattoo is unique, meaningful, and can reflect exactly what you want.

Cover-Up Tattoos

Made a mistake? Got drunk and woke up with a shitty tattoo? Or maybe it is just from a time in your life you have moved past – regardless of your why, Lamar Street Tattoo Club specializes in cover-up tattoos and can make your bad memory into a work of art.

Awards of Lamar Street Tattoo Club

Recently Voted the Best Tattoo Shop in Dallas TX

With Lamar Street Tattoo Club, you can expect to receive comprehensive consultations, crafted and seasoned execution, a piece of artwork that will stand the test of time, and superior instructions for aftercare to keep your art looking its best.

Visit us and see why you voted us the best tattoo shop in Dallas TX.