National Tattoo Day: The Impact of Tattoos on Pop Culture

Tattoos are a unique form of self-expression, a way to mark significant life events, and a powerful cultural symbol. With National Tattoo Day 2025 coming up, it's a great time to reflect on the profound impact of tattoos in pop culture and society throughout the decades.

When Is National Tattoo Day? 

National Tattoo Day takes place each year on July 17th to honor the art and rich history of tattooing. While there isn’t a specific historical event tied to July 17th, the day serves as a moment to appreciate the artistry, skill, and cultural significance of tattoos. It’s a day for tattoo enthusiasts to share their stories, flaunt their ink, and perhaps get new tattoos to commemorate the occasion.

Since this July 17th falls on a Thursday, it’s a perfect chance for shops to run special long weekend promos or extended flash events. Tattoo studios can kick things off early and keep the momentum going through Sunday. Keep an eye out for related events in your area!

A Brief Review of Tattoo History

Tattoos have a long and varied history, dating back thousands of years. Early evidence of tattoos has been found on mummies from ancient Egypt, where they were believed to hold spiritual significance. In many Polynesian cultures, tattoos were a rite of passage and a mark of social status. In Japan, intricate tattoo designs were used to symbolize various aspects of a person's identity and social standing.

As tattoos spread globally, their meanings evolved. In some cultures, tattoos were associated with rebellion and counterculture movements, while in others, they were embraced as mainstream art. Today, tattoos are widely accepted and celebrated, symbolizing everything from cultural identity to personal milestones, and even as purely aesthetic expressions.

This wide acceptance has also sparked interest in tattoo art itself. You can see this passion today in Sullen Clothing’s tattoo art apparel, in which we merge fashion with body art.

How Tattoos Have Impacted Pop Culture

Tattoos have made a significant impact on pop culture, influencing various aspects of fashion, media, and art.

Tattoos in Music

The music industry has played a crucial role in popularizing tattoos. Many musicians use their tattoos to tell personal stories, honor loved ones, or showcase their artistic side. From rock stars to pop icons, tattoos have become a visual representation of an artist’s persona. Bands and solo artists alike often feature tattoos in their album artwork, music videos, and stage performances, making them an integral part of their brand.

Tattoos in Film and Television

Movies and TV shows have also contributed to the mainstream acceptance of tattoos. Characters with tattoos are often portrayed in a positive light, showcasing their strength, individuality, and creativity.

Tattoo reality shows, such as Ink Master and LA Ink, have brought the tattooing process into viewers' homes, demystifying the art and celebrating the skill of tattoo artists. These shows have turned tattoo artists into celebrities, further embedding tattoos into pop culture.

Tattoos as Artistic Expression

Beyond fashion and media, tattoos are recognized as a legitimate form of art. Tattoo conventions and exhibitions attract artists and enthusiasts from around the world, highlighting the intricate and diverse styles of tattooing.

Museums and galleries now feature tattoo art, acknowledging its cultural and artistic significance. This shift has helped elevate the perception of tattoos from mere body modifications to respected art forms.

Tattoos as Social Identification

Tattoos have become powerful symbols of social identity, allowing individuals to express their belonging to various groups, subcultures, or communities. For many, tattoos serve as badges of honor, representing affiliations with specific social movements, cultural backgrounds, or lifestyle choices. Tattoos showcase loyalty and solidarity, from biker gangs to spiritual communities.

Tattoos in Fashion

Tattoos have transcended their traditional boundaries and entered the realm of fashion. Many fashion designers incorporate tattoo-inspired designs into their collections, creating clothing and accessories that mimic the look of inked skin. This trend has led to a greater acceptance and celebration of body art within the fashion industry.

Celebrities with prominent tattoos often set trends, inspiring fans and followers to get similar designs.

How to Celebrate National Tattoo Day

National Tattoo Day is a time to recognize the art, support the culture, and engage with the people who live and breathe it. Here's how to do that in a real way.

Get a New Tattoo

Nothing beats the feeling of fresh ink. Book a session with a trusted artist or try someone new who matches the style you want. Some shops offer National Tattoo Day specials, so it’s a good time to commit to that next piece.

You can also attend a local flash event or walk-in day. It’s a fun way to explore new designs and connect with the tattoo community face to face.

Attend a Tattoo Event

Conventions, guest artist pop-ups, and in-store events are all great ways to celebrate. Tattoo expos bring together top-tier artists, vendors, and collectors under one roof. You can watch live tattooing, see original flash up close, and connect with others who take the culture seriously.

If there's something local happening at your shop or in your city, show up. These events support artists and keep the scene strong.

Get Into the Art

You don’t need to tattoo to be part of the artistic side of the culture. Try drawing flash sheets, sketching concepts, or working in styles you admire. Use the day to improve your technique, experiment with new tools, or build up a portfolio. If you’ve never drawn tattoo art before, take this opportunity to experiment with it.

If you’ve ever thought about tattooing as a craft you want to pursue, this is a good time to take the first step. Study the styles. Practice the lines. Put in the work.

Support Tattoo Artists Beyond the Chair

Not getting tattooed? Buy their prints, flash books, or original artwork. Share their work online. Wear tattoo apparel clothing that features artist-collaborated designs. Supporting artists in more ways helps keep the culture thriving.

Add New Tattoo-Inspired Clothing Pieces to Your Closet

Tattoos and pop culture go hand in hand—and that includes style. Tattoo art apparel lets you bring ink energy into what you wear every day. Pick up limited releases, bold graphics, and detailed prints that reflect the same attitude your tattoos do. Sullen Clothing offers exactly these kinds of pieces, rich with visual detail and solid construction.

Celebrate National Tattoo Day with Sullen Clothing

Sullen Clothing, a brand deeply rooted in tattoo culture, offers a unique way to celebrate National Tattoo Day. Our clothing line is inspired by the artistry and creativity of tattoos, featuring designs that resonate with tattoo enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike. From graphic tees to accessories, our products embody the spirit of tattoo culture.

As National Tattoo Day 2025 approaches, there's no better time to explore our collection. Whether you're a tattoo aficionado or simply appreciate the art form, Sullen Clothing has something for you.

New Limited Edition Drop for National Tattoo Day 2025

To celebrate National Tattoo Day this year, Sullen Clothing is dropping a limited-edition tattoo t-shirt—the Ink Reaper.

The back of this bold new design features an ornate grim reaper in fiery shades, wrapped with inky text invoking the Sullen Art Collective name. The large back graphic catches the eye, while the front keeps it clean with the iconic Sullen logo. Built on a comfortable and classic black tee, it’s premium tattoo apparel with serious visual heat.

Supplies are limited, so don’t miss your chance to grab a piece of the 2025 tattoo zeitgeist. While you’re at it, check out our other clothing collections for even more tattoo-inspired fashion.