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With warmer weather heading our way, showing off more skin is inevitable. And what better way to make your spring debut than with a stylish new ankle tattoo? Be it a dot-work sun, shaded waves, or even a simple smiley face, ahead you’ll find 7 tiny tattoo ideas to consider for your next ink sesh.
Image via Anna Tarazevich/Pexels
Single Star Tattoo
Solidify your spot as the star in your life by getting a star tattooed on one of your ankles. Just think — you can debut it while wearing one of your new going out tops this spring!
Image via Anna Keibalo/Unsplash
Bunny Tattoo
Getting a bunny tattoo during spring somehow feels seasonally appropriate. It doesn't matter that Easter is gone either. All you need to convince you that your dainty ankle tattoo is the thought that you're happily hopping from one chapter of your life to the next.
Image via Elif Dörtdoğan/Pexels
A Nod to Youth
Get this cute nostalgic tattoo to remind you to enjoy your life in the midst of crushing your goals! No seriously — get out and enjoy the sun!
Image via nappy/Pexels
What's My Age Again?
Blink-182 made the most nostalgic song in the early 2000s that works well for an ankle tattoo that displays the year you were born. If you're super committed to being a millennial or a part of Gen Z, this idea is perfect for you.
Image via Jessica Alves/Unsplash
Shine a Spotlight On Playing
Can you tell we're encouraging you to spend more time playing again? It may be fun to make money from your side hustle, but we dare you to fall in love with playing just because it's fun.
Image via Brit + Co
Karmic Cycles
Need a reminder that "what goes around, comes around?" Look no further than a small ankle tattoo that hints at karmic cycles.
Image via Nathan J Hilton/Pexels
Light as a Feather
Lastly, make it a point to be light as feather! We're not talking about how you walk either.
It's time to start breaking up with the way you let stress overwhelm you this spring.
RELATED: How to Find the Best Small Tattoo for You
This post has been updated.
Lead image via Jessica Alves/Unsplash
There’s a lot of conflicting information about tattoo aftercare and healing out there. Considering there are only seven states in which artists are required by law to provide aftercare instructions, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or left in the dark about what exactly to do after your appointment. The tattoo healing process depends on how big the piece is, how intricate it is, and your body’s response to the ink – but all complications can be avoided with proper aftercare procedures to reduce the risk of infection, scarring, fading, or drying out.
The first step to tattoo aftercare actually comes before the needle even touches your skin – picking a reputable, professional tattoo artist ensures you’re getting the very best care and advice, so you can be on your way to rockin’ some cool body art.
Disclaimer: I am by no means a professional, so approach aftercare at your own discretion, taking this information (as well as your tattoo artist’s) with a grain of salt.
1. Keep the second-skin (medical-grade adhesive) on for several days, or however long your artist recommends.
Your artist will likely place a second-skin material over your tattoo after it’s finished. It works as a barrier to keep bacteria out while the tattoo is in its freshest stage, only meant to stay on a few days.
When it’s time to take it off, be patient and go slow to avoid damage to the skin. Before doing this, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel to avoid additional germs and bacteria that could harvest in a normal hand towel.
Blood and plasma fluid coming out from the second-skin is normal, but if you notice any out-of-the-ordinary excretions or sensations, contact your tattoo artist ASAP.
2. Wash your tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free, unscented, antimicrobial soap.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS
After removing the second skin, the next step in aftercare is to wash off the tatted area. Using a gentle soap ensures that your tattoo doesn’t get any further irritation that could cause unfavorable healing.
When it’s time to wash, move gently, as the area can be tender. You’ll want to start with clean hands and wash with lukewarm water as well, to avoid burning the exposed skin. These are the soaps most commonly used for tattoo aftercare:
3. Moisturize after pat-drying your skin with a paper towel.
Image via People Of Substance
Though petroleum jellies (like Vaseline) can be moisturizing on the lips, it’s no longer widely recommended for tattoo aftercare. Too much of it can create a thick, non-breathable layer on top of your tattoo – less air-flow means slower healing and the potential for ink bleeding. Look to opt for light ointments and balms. Here are a few widely-loved ones:
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($16)
- People Of Substance All-Natural Tattoo Balm Stick ($15)
- Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Maintenance Cream ($22)
- Lubriderm Daily Moisture Hydrating Unscented Body Lotion ($11, was $13)
- Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm Stick ($12)
Bandages or other tight skin coverings are not necessary once you’ve washed off your tattoo. A seal created by these barriers could restrict air-flow, too.
After a week or so, it’s safe to move away from ointments and balms, and onto gentle lotions like the Eucerin Unscented Advanced Repair Body LotionAdvanced Repair Body Lotion ($11, was $13).
4. Avoid *too* hot of showers + no physical activity for at least 48 hours after your appointment.
Heat caused by external factors (weather, hot water, etc) and sweating can increase the risk for the ink on your tattoo to bleed. Plus, moving around too suddenly (like how you would during a workout) causes your skin to stretch, potentially altering your tat’s shape. Not to mention, there’s a very real risk of infection from that grimy gym equipment!
5. Stay out of direct sun for at least 2 weeks.
Photo by Angela Roma / PEXELS
Sun can further damage your ink, so it’s not a good thing for tattoo aftercare. If you have to be out, your first line of defense should be a physical barrier like some loose clothing, then a light layer of mineral zinc oxide-based sunscreen to protect your tat.
6. No underwater activity for at least 2 weeks.
The risk for bacterial infection from the water in pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean is high. That’s why people prefer to get tatted in the winter, where they won’t have to actively avoid swimming and the subsequent FOMO of not diving in.
7. Stay hydrated!
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva / PEXELS
Hydrating your body hydrates your skin – and having hydrated skin means your tattoo is ready to heal as best as it can. Drinking water throughout the day (don’t go too crazy) certifies that your body can handle the ink. You also might want to avoid alcohol for a bit. It can cause bouts of dehydration and thin your blood, causing excess bleeding from the tattoo’s wound.
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Lead photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS
Kitchen renovations are no joke – they're a major investment, so you’ll want to think twice before committing to fleeting trends — especially for big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. I’ll admit it: I’m still without a backsplash five years later because I can’t commit! While it’s perfectly fine to follow your heart if you love a particular look, kitchens can quickly feel outdated when you lean too heavily on short-lived fads. To help you create a timeless, stylish space, we’ve rounded up outdated kitchen trends to avoid — and easy ways to modernize if your kitchen is stuck in the past.
Scroll to see if you have these outdated kitchen trends in your house right now!
1. All-White Kitchens
The all-white kitchen craze has officially run its course, often feeling cold and sterile — like say a doctor’s office. Today’s kitchens are all about warmth and character, with palettes in soft neutrals, earthy greens, or bold, moody shades like oxblood and midnight blue. Choose a color that speaks to you for a timeless, inviting space you'll love for years to come.
2. Granite Countertops
This early 2000s trend has been overdone and feels so dated now. Marble, sleek quartz, even butcher block are more classic choices.
3. Ornate Cabinetry
The color and detail of this traditional kitchen feels drab and dated. Instead, look for flat-panel or Shaker-style cabinets with clean, minimal lines.
4. Farmhouse Decor
This kitchen is a lesson is don'ts. The grey vinyl flooring (especially hideous!), farmhouse stools, and white cabinetry hail from a decades-old trend that needs to disappear in 2025.
5. Glass Mosaic Tiles
Glass mosaics, popular in the 2000s and 2010s, tend to lean toward a transitional aesthetic, which is the opposite of an organic, minimalist, or vintage-inspired design kitchen are craving now. The grout lines are bit difficult to clean too between all the tiny tiles. Zellige tile or a slab of marble are a more sophisticated look for today's kitchens.
6. Black & White
The stark contrast between black and white can come across as harsh and overly dramatic, a look that peaked in the 2010s. The farmhouse sign doesn't help warm it up either. Soften the look with earthy, natural tones.
7. Subway Tile
Subway tile is classic, so there’s no need to rip it out if it still brings you joy. However, the white subway tile paired with dark grout has overstayed its welcome. This overdone trend became so ubiquitous that it lost its charm and individuality, leaving kitchens looking more cookie-cutter than full of character.
8. Industrial Lighting
This nod to the past needs to, sorry, stay in the past. Look for organic, natural forms and lighting that reflects your kitchen's unique aesthetic.
Shutterstock
9. Tuscan Style
This rustic kitchen feels dated with its heavy, ornate features like dark wood cabinetry and trim. Go for clean, brighter spaces.
Shutterstock
10. Tile Countertops
Natural stone, marble, and wood are trending for 2025. Grout-filled countertops like this one are not. Time to go!
11. Moroccan Mosaic Tile
Kitchens are becoming elegant places to cook, eat, and gather. This busy design can look cheap. The white mid-century Eames-style chairs, sorry to say, are also out.
12. Barn Doors
Using barn doors between the kitchen and other spaces is a look that is officially out. They proved to be not that functional and the look is now dated and too kitschy. Buh bye!
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Every January, I commit to a Whole30 month and throughout the year follow the low-carb program for a week or even a day. This year, 2025, I'm going to try to adhere to a low-carb diet all year long. My body just doesn't react well to carbs and it's generally a healthier way to live. I recently tried True Story's Whole30 Approved Bundle, which has been a great starter kit to get back in the swing of a low-carb routine, especially at lunchtime when I don't have time to cook from scratch.
Now there are tons of Whole30 recipes that you can enjoy without breaking the rules. The creativity of these dinner recipes make you feel like you're not giving up on dairy, grains, sweets or fun, but instead are venturing into a style of cooking that's healthy and *delicious.* Enjoy the adventure and experiment with these versatile mains that you can add to your monthly cooking routine.
Easy Paleo Chili Recipe
Make this easy Whole30-compliant dish that's full of healthy veggies (no beans!) and so simple to make. (via The Endless Meal)
Meatballs Without Breadcrumbs
For an easy dinner, try these meatballs without breadcrumbs made from ground beef or pork. Just add a veggie and your favorite sauce! (via Where Is My Spoon)
Sweet Potato Toasts
Sweet potatoes are low in calorie and high in fiber and a good swap for your toasty cravings. There are endless topping combos to turn them into a delicious and savory meal. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Sheet Pan Chicken And Asparagus
This Sheet Pan Chicken and Asparagus recipe is Whole30 approved and ready in less than 30 minutes! (via The Girl On Bloor)
Creamy Chicken Mushroom
Serve over cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash, this Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is made with garlic chicken thighs and a delicious mushroom sauce that's made creamy with healthy cashew butter. (via The Endless Meal)
Chicken Artichoke
This chicken smothered in a creamy spinach and artichoke cream sauce is Whole30-compliant and so delicious! (via Clean Cuisine)
Whole30 Chicken Zoodle Soup
If you’re looking for a soul-soothing dish that’s still diet-friendly, you’ve come to the right recipe. (via Brit + Co)
Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Hearty comfort food isn’t always compliant with the latest food trends, but this loaded baked potato soup just happens to be Whole30 approved. (via Brit + Co)
Whole30 Animal Style Burgers
Crunchy lettuce leaves replace traditional buns to make burgers that are Whole30 compliant. You’ll be able to stop your drive-thru dreams after just one bite. (via Brit + Co)
Chicken, Pesto, and Sun-Dried Tomato Egg Pizza
Whole 30 Salmon Avocado Salad
Whole30 Broccoli Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes
Whole30 Chicken, Lime, and Avocado Soup
Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Whole30 Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken
Make this sesame chicken at home in your Instant Pot so you don’t give in to your take-out cravings. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker, photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)
Taco Salad Bowl + Sautéed Plantains
Dig into this hearty salad served with sautéed plantains and a homemade Whole30-compliant taco seasoning for a totally satisfying dinner. (via The Real Food Dieticians)
Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat
Roasted sweet potatoes, eggs, and the toppings of your choice (bacon and avocado, for example) create a hearty base for your day. (via Brit + Co)
Hashbrown Egg Cups
Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas
Tangy, spicy sheet-pan shrimp fajitas can be wrapped in lettuce taco “shells.” (via Brit + Co)
Air Fryer Whole Chicken
This Greek-inspired whole chicken cooks fast and tasty in an air fryer. Add roasted potatoes for a complete meal! (via Vikalinka)
Green Egg Shakshuka
If you’re not famished after work, treat yourself to a pan of mixed greens topped with baked eggs. (via Brit + Co)
Spring Chicken Salad
Chicken, potatoes, and greens are always a choice grouping. Here, the addition of a pesto dressing transforms them into a vibrantly flavored dish. Use snap peas instead of English peas to keep things Whole30-compliant. (via Brit + Co)
Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie
Topped with a creamy cauliflower-potato mash, Whole30 shepherd’s pie is just one way to satisfy your comfort food cravings. (via Brit + Co)
Halibut en Papillote
Instant Pot Salmon Dinner
Sweet potatoes, broccoli, and orange-covered salmon cook up all at once in an Instant Pot within minutes so hanger doesn’t have time to strike. (via Brit + Co)
Keto Vegan Alfredo Zoodles
We think Whole30 will forgive us since alfredo sauce isn’t something people tend to binge on. Top it with shrimp or chicken for extra oomph. (via Brit + Co)
Whole30 Mashed Potatoes With Mushroom Gravy
Make a big batch of this and serve it alongside a steak. (via Brit + Co)
Sweet Potato Egg Boat
Don’t knock it till you try it. Egg, bacon, avo, and sweet potatoes surprisingly go very well together. (via Brit + Co)
Paleo Dressing
This bowl combines roasted root vegetables and sausage for an earthy, filling combo. Serve it with some cauliflower rice for a complete meal. (via Brit + Co)
Whole30 Chicken Salad
This easy grilled chicken salad, ideal for the nights when you want to quickly throw something together, happens to be Pinterest’s top recipe. (via Brit + Co)
As you already know if you've made it this far, getting through a month of healthy meals is all about the meal plan! We hope you've found some inspiration for easy, flavorful, colorful, and tasty meals that we imagine might land in your regular meal rotation beyond your Whole30 month? Find more inspiration in our weekly newsletter or enjoy a free month of our on-demand baking and cooking classes.
Main image via The Endless Meal