If you’re headed to the tattoo shop for your next appointment, you may be wondering what to wear.
Between the parlor, design, location, size, style, and artist there are a lot of things to think about before getting a tattoo. It’s probably not something you should be concerned about how to get to your appointment the day of – especially when it comes to what to wear.
The clothing you wear to your tattoo appointment is largely determined by the location of the tattoo. It’s fairly self-evident for a hand, wrist, or leg tat.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on what to wear to your next tattoo appointment. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran ink enthusiast, these tips will help make the process go as smoothly as possible. Stay tuned for our top clothing picks for your next tattoo appointment!
What to Wear to Your Tattoo Appointment?
The process of getting a tattoo is pretty straightforward. After you’ve decided on the design, placement, and artist, you’ll need to schedule an appointment.
Most tattoo shops will require a deposit to hold your spot, which is usually applied to the final cost of the tattoo.
When Getting a Back Tattoo
On the day of your appointment, it’s important to wear clothes that will give the artist easy access to the area being tattooed. For example, if you’re getting a back piece, you’ll want to wear something that exposes your entire back or can be easily removed.
A tattoo on your back may be located anywhere along your spine, down your lower back, the back of your shoulder, or cover the whole area. This influences what sort of top you can wear.
For an appearance that covers your whole back, Velvet advised using a bikini top that you can untie while resting [1].
When Getting a Hip Tattoo
Placing a tattoo on your hip can be tricky – you don’t want it to get caught on clothing or rub against anything. This might mean that you need to adjust what you wear for a few days after getting inked.
Tattoos located on the sides of your hips will usually stay put when wearing low-rise jeans or skirts. If you have a design placed more towards the front, however, consider wearing a thong or G-string underwear so that your regular clothes don’t rub against it. A bandeau top is also a good option since it doesn’t have any straps that might irritate the area.
When Getting a Shoulder Tattoo
If you’re getting a tattoo on your shoulder, it’s important to consider how large the design is and where exactly it will be placed.
For example, a small tattoo on the top of your shoulder can easily be covered with a T-shirt or tank top. But if you’re getting a larger piece that extends down your arm, you’ll need to wear something that won’t get in the way-like a sleeveless shirt or dress.
Keep in mind that your tattoo may be sore after the appointment, so you might want to choose an outfit that’s comfortable and doesn’t require a lot of movement.
When Getting a Side Tattoo
If you want a tattoo on the side, you must first come wearing a bikini top or remove your clothing after arriving at the studio. Pasties or stickers are used to cover the nipples. You should not wear a bra unless you have a loose-fitting item or a bralette [2].
When Getting a Sternum Tattoo
The most popular tattoo placement for women is the sternum. If you choose this area, you will likely be topless during your appointment. A sternum tattoo appointment is similar to a side tattoo in that you’ll want to go braless and may be asked to use pasties over your nipples for further protection.
Some people opt to wear a bikini top or bralette, but if you’re comfortable being naked, it’s not necessary. Just make sure that you wear something easy to remove so the artist can access your chest without any obstacles.
When Getting a Butt Tattoo
A high-cut thong or g-string is ideal for most people who get a butt tattoo. This will, of course, be determined by the design, but in general, the interior of the butt crack would not be involved so there’s no issue having fabric there.
Obviously, also, don’t wear anything long-sleeved. Otherwise, simply pull it out of the way [3].
When Getting a Neck Tattoo
The best way to show off your new ink is by wearing your hair up. This way, the tattoo will be visible no matter what you’re wearing. If you have long hair, you can put it in a bun or ponytail. If you have shorter hair, consider wearing a headband or hat.
You should also avoid clothing that might rub against your tattoo, so steer clear of turtlenecks and collared shirts. A sleeveless shirt or dress is a better option. And if you’re getting a tattoo on the back of your neck, wear something that leaves your back exposed.
When Getting a Chest Tattoo
For both men and women, the most popular placement for chest tattoos is between the breasts. This area is often referred to as the “cleavage” tattoo.
If you’re getting a tattoo in this area, you’ll need to wear something that leaves your chest exposed. This might mean going braless or wearing a low-cut shirt or dress. You should also avoid clothing with buttons or anything else that might rub against your tattoo while it’s healing.
When Getting a Foot Tattoo
Getting a foot tattoo is similar to getting a shoulder tattoo in that you’ll need to consider how large the design is and where exactly it will be placed.
For example, if you’re getting a small tattoo on your ankle, you can wear socks and shoes without any problem. But if you’re getting a larger piece that goes up your leg, you’ll need to wear something that doesn’t cover the tattoo-like sandals or flip flops.
When Getting an Arm Tattoo
If you’re getting an arm tattoo, you’ll need to wear something that doesn’t cover the tattoo-like a sleeveless shirt or dress. You should also avoid clothing with buttons or anything else that might rub against your tattoo while it’s healing.
When Getting an Under Boob Tattoo
If you’re considering getting an under boob tattoo, make sure your artist understands how natural curves and breast size may affect the placement of a tattoo stencil. This implies that the most comfortable clothing for an under boob tattoo is something that is baggy fitting [4].
A baggy crop top is a fantastic option, and pasties may be used to conceal your nipples. You may tuck the excess fabric of the shirt beneath you while laying down for the tattoo so that it stays in place and covers all of the pieces!
When Getting a Stomach Tattoo
For a stomach tattoo, you’ll need to wear something that doesn’t cover the tattoo-like a crop top or bikini top.
General Guidelines:
- Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move in. You will be asked to change positions several times during the tattooing process, so loose-fitting clothes are ideal;
- Avoid wearing clothing that is too tight or restrictive. This can cause discomfort during the tattooing process;
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too loose or flowing. This can get in the way of the tattoo artist and cause problems with the tattoo design;
- If you are getting a large tattoo, consider wearing a tank top or sports bra to avoid having your clothing shift and expose the tattoo area;
- Wear dark-colored clothing if possible. Light-colored clothing can become stained by ink during the tattooing process;
- Be prepared to remove any jewelry that might get in the way of the tattoo. This includes rings, bracelets, necklaces, and piercings;
- If you have long hair, consider tying it back to avoid having it get in the way during the tattooing process;
Following these general guidelines will help ensure that you are comfortable during your tattoo appointment and that the tattoo artist is able to work easily and efficiently. Keep in mind that each tattoo shop may have its own specific requirements or recommendations, so be sure to ask before your appointment.
FAQ
Should I wear a bra to my tattoo appointment?
Rubbing against the new tattoo may cause both discomfort and delayed healing. Once your tattoo is scab-free, wearing a bra should not be an issue [5].
What should I wear to a tattoo appointment for my butt?
Your artist will need easy access to your entire backside. This means that you should avoid wearing anything too tight or constricting. A pair of loose-fitting shorts or pants should do the trick.
What should you not do before getting a tattoo?
There are a few things you should avoid doing before getting a tattoo:
- Firstly, you shouldn’t drink alcohol or take drugs as they thin your blood and can cause excessive bleeding;
- Secondly, you should avoid sun exposure as it can make your skin more sensitive;
- Lastly, you shouldn’t eat a heavy meal as it can make you feel nauseous;
How long can you not wear a bra after a tattoo?
You should avoid wearing a bra for at least 24 hours after getting a tattoo. This is to allow the tattoo to heal properly and to avoid irritating the skin [6].
If you must wear a bra, make sure it is loose-fitting and made of breathable fabric such as cotton.
Is it OK if my shirt touches my new tattoo?
Yes, it is perfectly fine if your shirt touches your new tattoo. In fact, it is recommended that you keep your tattoo clean and dry for the first few days after getting it.
Can I wear socks over a new tattoo?
Yes, you can wear socks over a new tattoo. However, make sure they are clean and made of breathable fabric such as cotton. Avoid wearing tight-fitting socks as they can irritate the skin.
Aftercare is just as important as the actual tattooing process itself. Make sure to follow your artist’s instructions on how to care for your new tattoo, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!
Do I wrap my tattoo at night?
You should wrap your tattoo at night for the first few nights after getting it. This will protect your tattoo from bacteria and other irritants. After a few nights, you can stop wrapping your tattoo but continue to clean and moisturize it.
Many tattoo artists will advise you to cover your tattoo with a bandage for the first few nights (up to 3-4). This protects your tattoo from germs, as well as your bedding and scabs that may be picked or ripped accidentally. Only a great wrap made specifically for tattoo healing, which should be breathable, anti-bacterial, and waterproof, should be used [7].
Useful Video: HOW TO DRESS for a TATTOO Appointment | What you Should & Shouldn’t wear
References:
- https://www.popsugar.com/beauty/what-to-wear-tattoo-appointment-48245699
- https://surfninktattoo.com.au/what-to-wear-for-a-tattoo-appointment-a-guide-for-women/
- https://www.tattoodo.com/articles/what-to-wear-to-a-tattoo-appointment-150231
- https://www.tattoodo.com/articles/what-to-wear-to-a-tattoo-appointment-150231
- https://www.mytattoo.com/en/blog/things-you-should-know-before-getting-a-rib-tattoo/
- https://authoritytattoo.com/will-wearing-a-bra-affect-tattoo/
- https://sorrymomshop.com/blogs/aftercare/sleep-with-new-tattoo