@kellikikcio

Tattoosare the ultimate form of self-expressionso much so that the decision can feel seriously daunting.

And one spot particularly loved by tattoo artists and Team Tatted alike?

The playfully discreet ankle.

Ankle tattoo of four cocktails

@kellikikcio

That being said, a more complex design might take a couple hours and ultimately cost more.

After all, sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impact.

Words and Phrases

Make a real statement with a Gothic-fonted word or phrase.

Black-and-white photo of ankle with two small star tattoos

@mnsantanatattoo

The outline-only design softens up what would otherwise be a high-impact design without losing any of the wow factor.

Also, the contrast from the negative space makes the design feel anything but basic.

Even with a slightly larger design, the result feels light and breezy.

Abstract shapes ankle tattoo

@yard_n_gnome

Abstract

@yard_n_gnome

You don’t need an intricate design for a beautiful tat.

The thin outline keeps the design looking subtle despite the contrast from the negative space.

The result is an intricate but low-key design.

Matching ankle tattoos with solid and intricate bands

@humblebeetattoo

Detailed Designs

There’s something incredibly playful and fun about this lineup of cocktails and cans.

The use of color, thin lines, and simplistic designs results in the ultimate feel-good tat.

The placement adds to that whimsy by free-floating slightly off-center.

Red and black rose outline back of ankle tattoo

@tealbarnestattoo

The thin lines and subtle shading take mega talent, and the results speak for themselves.

Sunset over water lines ankle tattoo

@humblebeetattoo

Close-up of lower leg with black loafers, socks, and four cocktails ankle tattoo

@kellikikcio

Ankle tattoo with opaque number 99

@humblebeetattoo

Ankle tattoo of blackwork figures holding hands

@magatattoo16

Red and blue watercolor ankle tattoo with “New York” text in all caps

@brittachristiansen

Multicolored puzzle pieces with faces ankle tattoo

@clarapierrotti.tattoo

Cactus and sunshine stick-and-poke ankle tattoo

@groovelinetattoo

“Run Like Toshi” text ankle tattoo

@evantattoo

Shaded cowboy boot ankle tattoo

@joeyhilll

Matching ankle tattoos with 1/2 number figure

@humblebeetattoo