11 Tattoo-Inspired Nail Art Ideas We’re Loving

There's no denying that we love a good tattoo. Big or small, there's just something about the forever art that makes our heart swell. But we know the idea of getting a permanent design on your body can be intimidating, so before you make the major leap under the needle, try heading to your manicurist first. Tattoo art is seeping out of the shop and into the nail salon. From subtle line drawings to heavily detailed portraits, you can easily recreate your favorite sleeve designs right at your fingertips. Ahead we share double-tap worthy tattoo nail ideas to inspire you to polish your own.

Gothic Girl: The matte nail trend has been around for years, but it's given a much-needed upgrade with these medieval details. (via @nail_sunny)

What's in the Book? Can't make a choice? Then reach for the artist's book, which is always packed with inspiring ideas for your next ink session and your next mani. (via @clearjellystamper)

The Portrait Piece: For those of you who stray from simplicity, an intricate portrait design is all you need for an impressive style. (via @nenas_gelnageldesign)

The Eye of the Beholder: This scribble-inspired design is far from subtle. The cartoon-like eyes and lips create a fun illustrated look that's easy enough to create at home. (via @nail_unistella)

Serpent Centerpiece: Pair rose-adorned nude nails with a devilish snake for a daringly romantic tat-inspired mani. (via @calebandgladys)

Flora and Fauna: Delicate and ethereal, this nude mani offers up a feminine touch. It's a more tamed fit for your nails and even for your skin. (via @svit_nails)

The Minimalist: This design acts more as an accent piece than as a hardcore work of art. It's simple enough to recreate with your favorite nail polish to lend bare nails a unique playfulness. (via @needlenails)

All Signs Point to This: Minimal arrows and angular symbols are undoubtedly one of the hottest designs in ink culture right now. It's also a fitting piece to amp up your claws. (via @angels_nails_pefki)

Spread the Word: Want to get your point across? Then tell everyone to "talk to the hand" with this Old English design. (via @abrildawe)

Hard Head: Reach for a bottle of your favorite pink nail polish and create this smokey touch. (via @nenas_gelnageldesign)

Small Stuff: Shorter nails can join in on the tattoo homages too. Just take a look at this geometric-inspired art: It's short and sweet, and it adds an edgy look to plain nails. (via @wenanails)