A pinup tattoo is a classic choice many artists have experience inking.
Pinup tattoos generally refer to the wartime coy, yet sexual poses of superstars like Jane Russell and Bettie Page. Seductive and yet tasteful, pinup tattoos celebrate the female form with all her power and beauty. Put your own spin on a pinup tattoo by finding inspiration with classic Vargas art, modern day anime characters or by mixing old and new with a science fiction take on the genre. Whatever the choice, finding a talented artist and taking time to develop the image is vital in designing a tattoo image you will love for a lifetime.
Vargas Inspired
A prolific artist and illustrator from the 1940s, Alberto Vargas may be most well known for his sensational pinup girls. Colorful and voluptuous, these classic gals embody both sexuality and innocence. Browse through the Vargas catalog of pinup girls and use his artwork to inspire a tattoo that either replicates his work or is inspired by it.
Cartoon
Although maybe not the first thought you'd have when considering a pinup tattoo, a cartoon image is an appropriate tattoo idea for a younger man or anyone who does not want to offend viewers with a racier image. The pinup tattoo sexy-quotient can go up depending on what decade-style or cartoon sub-genre you choose such as modern anime vs. 1950s "Playboy"-style cartoon imagery. Personalize the tattoo by asking your artist to create an original cartoon image featuring your wife's image or favorite movie star's face.
Objects
Include an object such as a motorcycle, special car or even a beloved pet in the pinup image to make it more personal. Although your pinup girl may look vintage, asking your tattoo artist to drape her over your new Harley will produce an interesting contrast and great conversation starter. Bring plenty of reference material and consider making the pinup girl in black and gray and the object in color to differentiate the eras.
Science Fiction Pinups
Put a new twist on a pinup classic by turning the face and body of the pinup into an alien figure. Consider a classic pinup costume and pose, and then let your tattoo artist construct a sexy humanoid alien, reptilian or Hollywood movie monster to fit the scenario. Ideal for a large color tattoo, take your time creating the image to be sure it implies the emotions you want it to when complete. Whether frightening or seductive, a science fiction pinup will turn any geek into an uber-edgy guy.
