Skin Deep

[Shadow]

It’s the ultimate fashion accessory. Like a favorite brooch or antique bracelet, it’s an extension of the self — yet a tattoo is always there, giving the wearer the option to conceal or display it for all the world to see. Far from a sign of rebellion, today’s tattoo is beautification at its best.

“People are moving away from old school gangster stuff,” notes John Huntington of A&E’s Inked fame and owner of Palms Casino Resort’s eponymous tattoo shop, Huntington Ink.

Debating some ink? Check out Huntington’s take on the hottest styles around.

Year of the Dragon
Symbolizing good fortune, dragons are simultaneously sleek, powerful and awe-inspiring. According to tradition, the dragon’s soul is said to reside in its eye, so any tattoo artist worth his or her salt will be sure to save the pupil and ocular shading for last.

Playing Koi
Popular in aquariums and garden ponds thanks to its vibrant coloring, this carp, native to Eastern Asia, has gone on to make a lasting mark in the realm of body art. In Japanese mythology, kois are known as baby dragons. Perhaps they’re just lucky charms in nascent form.

Character Work
Whether or not a person has heard of “congi” before, odds are that he or she has already seen it. Chic, simple and visually compelling, these Japanese characters make a bold aesthetic statement whether adorning one’s arms or placed discreetly at the nape of the neck. But please, do the tattoo enthusiast community a favor; know what the particular characters actually mean. If there’s a personal story behind it, that’s even better.

Asian Persuasion
While these Eastern designs can easily stand alone, a true aficionado will more often than not select some sort of finishing touch to tie the piece together. Japanese finger waves, whether done in blue or more subdued black-and-gray shading, are an ideal accompaniment, particularly when paired with a koi.

To soften a piece, consider incorporating a lotus flower or two. Not only can it lend a more feminine feel, it also gives the artist the opportunity to add some contrasting splashes of color to liven things up.

The New Old School
Those who may not be ready for a full-sleeve or side panel can still incorporate the world of tattoo art into their personal style. Permanent makeup has seen a surge in demand recently, from eyeliner and eyebrows, to lip-liner and lipstick. Many salons and spas now offer such services, meaning tattoo novices don’t even have to leave their comfort zones.

And for those who love the look of seamed nylons, but hate the hassle, two black lines from upper thigh to heel create the illusion of perfectly straight hosiery, every time.

The mainstream’s embrace of tattoo culture is evidenced by the ever-increasing popularity of brands such as Ed Hardy and Sailor Jerry. In fact, Huntington notes that 30 percent of his shop’s sales can be attributed to the merch counter. Pin-up girls, swallows, sacred hearts — these are staples of body art that will never go out of style.

And if they do, Huntington Ink has clients covered with tattoo removal and cover-up services on tap. After all, there’s nothing like a fresh canvas.

[kitten]

"Whether or not a person has heard of “congi” before"

Isn't congi a kind of Asian rice porridge? Oh wait, I looked it up and it's spelled "congee". Close enough.

Funny how I don't seem to follow most of the tattoo trends. Ah well, I gotta be me.

[patriciorip]

It's a nice article to me... thanks