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A Polynesian tattoo style includes different designs that belong to different tribes. Generally speaking, people from this area have been using tattoos to express their identity and social status for a very long time. That’s why this part of the world has such a strong tattoo culture.
Now, there are five main Polynesian tattoo styles that may look similar but some serious distinctions allow you to tell them apart. Let’s dive into the world of these famous tribal designs and help you find the inspiration for your new ink.
Maori-style tattoo
Maori-style tattoos are famous for their thin lines that often turn into spirals. They also rely on negative spaces and don’t prefer shading as you can see in the picture above. A design such as this one will be perfect for your back so book your tattoo appointment right now if this is what you’re looking for.
This is another example of a Maori-style tattoo that’s slightly bigger than the previous one. It consists of a lot of elements that create a pattern that gives it that unique tribal look.
The thing about Polynesian tattoos is that they can easily adjust to any part of your body. The design above is a perfect example of how you can use all the lines and spirals to get a tattoo that goes all across your chest.
Upper arm tattoos seem to be very popular in Polynesian culture which is why you’ll come across all these different designs that look amazing on this part of the body. This is an example of one of them.
Marquesan-style tattoo
Marquesan-style tattoos also feature a ton of geometrical elements. But the main difference with this style is that it contains areas filled with black ink. This gives the tattoo a slightly bolder look as it contrasts with the other blank elements.
This upper arm design features symbols of waves, people, sharks’ teeth, and many more. All of these elements are common in the Polynesian tattoo style and represent the reality of people from this area.
Here we have another amazing design, perfect for the area of your back. It’s big, detailed, and perfectly executed which makes it exactly what you’re looking for.
Just because you’re on the hunt for a perfect Polynesian-style tattoo, it doesn’t mean that you have to commit to a huge design. This armband is a perfect idea if you’re looking for something more simple and not so overpowering.
Samoan-style tattoo
One of the most famous tattoo styles in the Polynesian culture is definitely the Samoan style. It features a lot of geometrical elements which are often placed symmetrically. It’s perfect for all of the perfectionists out there.
With solid-black areas and repeating patterns, this medium-sized design will fit perfectly on your back. It’s a show-stopper that will make you feel connected with your ancestors.
This is another popular placement for Polynesian tattoos. Getting a tattoo such as this one on your upper arm together with your shoulder and a part of your chest is an expression of masculinity and belonging.
If a sleeve tattoo sounds like a bit too much, you can opt for a more subtle version of it. This design doesn’t completely cover the whole area of your arm but it’s still a bold piece that people will ask you questions about.
Tahitian-style tattoo
Tahitian-style tattoos are more organic since they consist of rounder and naturalistic shapes. They’re a great idea if you’re looking for something a bit more toned-down and almost elegant-looking.
This is a fun idea of what you can achieve if you opt for a Tahitian-style tattoo. A design such as this one will look natural on the skin like it was always meant to be there.
We could say that this tattoo is a perfect blend of different styles but you can still clearly see the Tahitian elements inside of it. A bit sharper than the previous two design ideas, it could be a great option if you’re looking for a slightly more masculine tattoo.
This design is perfect if you’re looking for a thigh piece. It will follow the natural curve of your leg, leading you to a tattoo that will feel just right for this part of your body.
Hawaiian-style tattoo
Geometrical elements and a repeating pattern are two things that describe the Hawaiian tattoo style. The contrast between solid black areas and blank spaces is what will give this tattoo more dimension and make it appear more noticeable on the skin.
If you’re looking for an upper arm piece done in the Hawaiian style, this is how it could look like. Perfectly adjustable, you don’t have to worry that you’ll end up with a rough and unnatural tattoo.
When you’re feeling brave enough, a chest tattoo is the way to go. It will become the proof of your masculinity and when done in this style, it will embrace your roots and origin.
Last but not least, we have an idea for a calf piece. If you want to, you can adjust the design and make it spread around the whole lower part of your leg. When it comes to tattoos, everything is possible; you just have to figure out what you prefer.
