Rose tattoos are one of most popular tattoo ideas for men. The flower is universally recognised as a symbol of love and passion, although, if you get your rose tattoo finished in black ink, it could represent sorrow for a loved one who has passed away.
A rose tattoo can come in a wide range of styles, sizes and colours, making it incredibly easy to design a custom tattoo specifically for you. Some men choose to have a rose tattoo on its own, while others may want a rose to form part of a half or full-sleeve tattoo.
We’ve rounded up some of the most popular rose tattoo ideas for men to help provide some inspiration for your next piece of ink.
What does a rose tattoo mean?
A rose tattoo is a timeless and classic design that holds various meanings and interpretations. The size, style, and additional elements incorporated into your rose tattoo can significantly impact its meaning. For instance, a single rose bud represents new beginnings and the promise of love, while a fully bloomed rose symbolizes beauty and completeness. Thorns added to the design may signify protection or the idea that love comes with both beauty and pain. Overall, the meaning of a rose tattoo is a beautiful and individualistic expression of one’s feelings and life experiences.
Black Rose tattoo meaning
A black rose tattoo is often associated with themes of mystery, death, and the darker aspects of life. It can symbolize the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one, representing grief and mourning. Also, the bold contrast of a black rose against the skin allows for creative variations in design, as the absence of colour encourages more details, shading and textures. Its design potential and symbolism make it an exceptional choice if you wish to convey a deeper and more enigmatic message through your tattoo.
In this rose tattoo story….
- What does a rose tattoo mean?
- Black Rose tattoo meaning
- Rose tattoo meaning
- Sailor Jerry style rose tattoo
- Rose and dagger tattoo
- Rose hand tattoo
- Single line rose tattoo
- Rose chest tattoo
- Colour rose tattoo
- Rose and snake tattoo
- Rose neck tattoo
- Rose and clock tattoo
- Rose foot tattoo
- Rose face tattoo
- Money rose tattoo
- Simple rose tattoo
- Rose forearm tattoo
Rose tattoo meaning
While you certainly don’t need to have any meaning behind your rose tattoo, you may just like the flower, some men may choose to get one based on the numerous interpretations of the tattoo design. As SavedTattoo says, “for the unforeseeable future, roses have and will symbolise romance and beauty.”
However, this connotation is with a red rose. Roses can come in various colours and so the colour of ink you have your rose tattoo finished in can change its meaning entirely. A white rose tattoo, for example, can represent purity and innocence, whereas a pink rose is associated more with femininity than red.
For most men, however, a rose tattoo is simply an easy tattoo to get. If you want some ink, but don’t know what to get, get a rose. Simple. Here are some of the best rose tattoo ideas for men in 2022.
Sailor Jerry style rose tattoo
If you want a really authentic rose tattoo designs, then you can’t pass up the traditional style. Made popular by legendary tattoo artist Sailor Jerry, a traditional-style rose tattoo will inject plenty of colour and vibrancy. If you already have other tattoos that are done in a fineline style, you may want to avoid a traditional rose tattoo, as the styles just won’t match.
But, if it’s your first tattoo then a traditional style rose could decide the future path you go down if you decide to get more tattoos in the future.
Rose and dagger tattoo
A rose and dagger tattoo is an incredibly popular option for men. Firstly, it can be finished in either colour or black ink, and for those who want their tattoos to have meaning, it is said a rose and dagger tattoo can symbolise opposites attracting. This is when the dagger pierces the rose. If you have them together, but without the dagger piercing the rose, then it can represent balance in life.
Rose hand tattoo
A rose tattoo is so versatile that it can be inked anywhere on your body. If you want to get a small rose then a great placement option is the hand. Tattoo artists these days are capable of ensuring your small rose tattoo on hand is as detailed as possible, despite the small size. You could choose to have a rose including its stem and thorns, or opt for just the flowering part on its own.
Single line rose tattoo
Single line tattoos could have their own category, such is their popularity. Not only can a single line form an image that has meaning to you, but it makes for a tattoo that really is just as much a piece of art as it is something meaningful to you. A good placement option for a single line rose tattoo would be the forearm or even your leg, as you have access to a long vertical section of skin.
Rose chest tattoo
A chest tattoo, no matter the design, needs to be one that you really don’t mind showing off the world. It’s guaranteed to make a statement. A rose tattoo makes a great chest tattoo option, especially if you have it placed on the sternum, like in this example. The vertical nature of the rose lends well to this placement, and it could also symbolise holding love in your heart.
Colour rose tattoo
We have already touched on colour when talking about a traditional rose tattoo, but you can go one step further and opt for what is known as a neo traditional rose tattoo. Neo traditional is a style all on itself, and is similar to traditional, but will use more vibrant colours, thick lines and can make your realistic rose tattoo look almost 3D.
Rose and snake tattoo
Similar to a rose and dagger tattoo, a rose and snake tattoo is also an incredibly popular rose tattoo design for men. Some people suggest a rose and snake tattoo represents a love that has grown so strong that it can turn to temptation. Others say it can represent an unstoppable force – so if you’re on a particular high point in your life, a rose and snake tattoo option could be a great way to show it.
Looking for more snake tattoo inspiration? Check out our complete round-up of snake tattoo ideas for men.
Rose neck tattoo
Love them or loathe them, neck tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. Definitely for people who like to take risks and stand out from the crowd, the neck presents a more unique placement option for your next tattoo.
A rose tattoo on the neck can look incredible. You will definitely want to vet your tattoo artist first, because your rose will be on constant show, so you want to make sure it’s going to look professional.
Rose and clock tattoo
A rose and clock tattoo is another classic combination. Many believe a rose and clock tattoo can represent everlasting love, immortality and even death. Roses on their own can be associated with death, and the addition of the clock implies our life is always ticking away.
Rose foot tattoo
Because literally your entire body is ripe for tattooing, you may want to think about placing your rose tattoo somewhere a little different, such as your foot. Just remember, the skin on your foot is closer to the bone than on some other parts of the body, so expect the pain level to increase. You might want to start off with a smaller rose tattoo on your foot, so your session time is kept to a minimum.
Rose face tattoo
Face tattoos have certainly seen a surge in popularity since Post Malone arrived on the scene. So, if you’re feeling particularly brace and courageous, you could choose to get a rose tattoo somewhere on your face. As with a rose neck tattoo, you’ll want to be 100% sure the tattoo artist you choose is competent enough to give you an incredible piece of artwork.
Money rose tattoo
A money rose tattoo is another increasingly popular option for men and could be a particularly great tattoo idea for men who have been particularly successful in life. It’s claimed a money rose tattoo not only represents love, but by being formed of monetary notes, adds the meaning of a passion for riches or an appreciation of your wealth and hustle required to reach it.
Simple rose tattoo
Similar to a small rose tattoo, if your rose is your first tattoo or you just want something to add to your collection then a simple rose tattoo is the way to go. A simple rose can be devoid of any meaning if you wish, as it can simply serve to be just another piece of ink on your skin.
Rose forearm tattoo
A rose tattoo sleeve can make a perfect addition to your forearm, either on the outer forearm or inner forearm. This is primarily thanks to their vertical shape following the natural direction of your forearm perfectly. You could opt for another example of a single line rose tattoo as seen in this example, or a more fully-fledged rose design.
For more forearm tattoo inspiration, check out our complete round-up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rose Tattoos
What is the meaning behind a rose tattoo?
A rose tattoo can represent a variety of meanings, such as love, beauty, passion, and even pain or sacrifice. It can also symbolize different things depending on the color of the rose, with red roses typically representing love, and white roses symbolizing purity or innocence.
Where is the best place to get a rose tattoo?
The placement of a rose tattoo can vary depending on the size and design of the tattoo, as well as personal preference. Some popular places to get a rose tattoo include the forearm, wrist, shoulder, ankle, or even the back or chest.
How painful is it to get a rose tattoo?
The pain level of getting a rose tattoo can vary depending on the individual's pain tolerance and the location of the tattoo. Generally, areas with less fat or muscle, such as the wrist or ankle, can be more painful than areas with more cushion, such as the back or thigh.
How much does a rose tattoo cost?
The cost of a rose tattoo can vary depending on the size, design, and location of the tattoo, as well as the skill level and experience of the tattoo artist. On average, a small to medium-sized rose tattoo can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, while larger, more intricate designs can cost several hundred dollars or more.
How long does a rose tattoo take to heal?
The healing time of a rose tattoo can vary depending on the size and location of the tattoo, as well as how well it is cared for during the healing process. Generally, a rose tattoo can take anywhere from two to four weeks to fully heal, during which time it is important to keep the tattoo clean, dry, and protected from the sun and other irritants.
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Rose Vine Tattoo
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The tattoo typically features a winding vine adorned with blooming roses. The vine can wrap around the arm, leg, or torso, creating a captivating and continuous pattern. You could get a rose shoulder tattoo or rose finger tattoo from these vines.
Traditional Rose Tattoo
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Love is often depicted as a tender emotion, and yet the rose, with its thorns, tells a different story. It shows that love can be both tender and painful, but even amidst the pain, there is still the potential for growth. The tattoo ages and evolves with you, adapting to your experiences and memories.
Skull & Rose Tattoo
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The combination of the two symbols in a skull and rose tattoo embodies the concept of “memento mori” – the Latin phrase meaning “remember you must die.” It encourages introspection about mortality and the fleeting nature of life while also celebrating the beauty and vitality of the present moment.
Black Rose Tattoo
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This design can vary in style and detail, providing ample opportunities for customization. Some may prefer a realistic black rose or a more artistic representation. The tattoo can be designed to fit various areas of the body, like the forearm, upper arm, chest, back, or even the thigh.
Gypsy Rose Tattoo
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A gypsy rose tattoo is an artistic fusion that holds a unique meaning, expressing themes of wanderlust, freedom, passion and a nomadic spirit. The tattoo may also include symbolic elements like tarot cards, dreamcatchers, or crystal balls, representing Gypsy mysticism and spirituality.
Skeleton Rose Hand Tattoo
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This design starts with a traditional rose, usually in full bloom or partially bloomed, located at the base of the hand or near the rose tattoo on the wrist. As the design progresses, the rose gradually transforms into skeletal elements, with the petals morphing into bony structures, and the stem extending into skeletal fingers.
Purple Rose Tattoo
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When it comes to rose tattoos, red, pink, and white roses are the most common and widely recognized. Purple roses are not tied to a specific meaning in the way that red or white roses are. This gives you the freedom to infuse the tattoo with your emotions, experiences and beliefs.
Rose with Name Tattoo
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The marriage of the timeless rose with a name, be it of a cherished loved one, a significant figure, or even your name makes this tattoo a very personal one. Adjacent to the rose, the name occupies its rightful place, infusing itself into the design of the rose name tattoo.
Butterfly Rose Tattoo
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It’s a wonderful expression of the symbiotic relationship between two elements in nature. The butterfly relies on the rose for sustenance and nourishment, drawing nectar from its delicate petals. The rose, in turn, benefits from the butterfly’s pollination, which helps to spread its seeds and ensure its continued existence.
Dead Rose Tattoo
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Despite its appearance of wilting and fading beauty, the dead rose represents transformation. It signifies the inevitable cycles of change, where something must pass away to pave the way for new beginnings. It can be a small and discreet tattoo on the wrist or ankle or a more elaborate piece spanning the back or chest.
Sunflower Rose Tattoo
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The union of these two flowers creates a stunning balance between deep emotions and a sunnier outlook on life. Consider personalizing it with elements like initials or small symbols that represent cherished memories or beliefs.
Cross Rose Tattoo
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One common approach is to have the cross and rose intertwined, with the stem of the rose wrapping around the cross or the petals adorning the arms of the cross. Another option is to have the cross and rose depicted side by side, each retaining its individual features but still very connected.
Black & White Rose Tattoo
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The tattoo can be seen as a dual symbol of balance, as the black represents the passive and introspective aspects of life, while the white represents the active and expressive elements. The minimalist allure captures the very essence of the rose while leaving ample space for your imagination to breathe life into the tattoo.
Realistic Rose Tattoo
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This lifelike portrayal of the rose is a sensory feast for the eyes, almost as if the rose was plucked from a garden and frozen in time on your skin. It serves as an intimate storyteller, whispering tales of passion and resilience, as it reflects your world through the lens of a single, exquisitely crafted flower.
Gold Rose Tattoo
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The heart of this tattoo lies in its golden petals, each one crafted to give off a lustrous sheen. The artist uses warm, glimmering tones and gilded highlights to emulate the allure of gold, adding depth to the rose’s form. This exquisite design reflects the idea that love, like gold, is precious, timeless and unyielding.
