Couple Tattoo Ideas You Won't Regret

Picking couple tattoo ideas and getting matching ink with a partner is one of the most romantic things you can do, and one of the most famously risky. Everyone has heard about the name tattoo that needed a cover up after a breakup. Pete Davidson, whose tattoos we cover in our guide to his removal journey, is only the most public example.

The good news is that the couple tattoos people keep loving share a few traits: they mean something to each person individually, they avoid names, and they would still make sense if life changed. Here are couple tattoo ideas designed with that in mind.

The golden rule: choose something that works on its own

The safest couple tattoos are designs you would be happy to have even if the relationship ended. That does not make them any less romantic. It simply means the tattoo celebrates something you both love, rather than depending entirely on the other person.

Relationship tattoos come up again and again in what people regret most about their tattoos, so a little planning goes a long way.

Couple tattoo ideas that age well

Two halves of a whole

A sun and a moon, a lock and a key, puzzle pieces, or a mountain and a wave. Each design stands alone as a symbol, but together they connect.

Coordinates

The latitude and longitude of where you met, got engaged or married. To anyone else it is a string of numbers. To you, it is a place.

A date in Roman numerals

Your anniversary or wedding date. Simple, discreet and easy to place on the wrist, ribs or inner arm.

Matching symbols with individual meaning

An infinity sign, a small heart, an arrow, or a paper aeroplane. Choose symbols you each love, not just shapes that look cute side by side.

Something you share

A shared hobby, a favourite film or book reference, your first concert, a song lyric, or a pet. These are about your life together, and they still mean something whatever happens.

Each other's handwriting

A short word such as "love" or "always" written by your partner. Sentimental and unique, but think carefully: of all couple tattoos, this is one of the most personal.

Complementary colours or styles

The same design in two different styles, such as one in fine line and one in bold traditional, or in two colours. Connected, but still individual.

Ring tattoos

Tattooed wedding bands around the ring finger are popular with couples who do not wear jewellery. Be aware that finger tattoos fade fastest and need touch ups, so keep the design simple and bold.

Couple tattoos to think twice about

• Each other's names. The classic regret. If you want a name, consider initials or a symbol instead.
• Portraits of your partner. Beautiful, but very hard to live with if things change.
• Tattoos on impulse. Holiday or late night tattoos are rarely the ones people treasure. Wait a few months and see if you still both want it.
• Designs one of you is not sure about. A couple tattoo should be an enthusiastic yes from both people.

Where to place couple tattoos

• Wrists or inner forearms: easy to line up when holding hands, and great for halves of a design.
• Fingers: popular for ring tattoos, but fade quickly.
• Ribs or over the heart: private and symbolic, but more painful.
• Ankles: discreet and easy to show in photos together.

Not sure what to call a spot? Our guide to tattoo placement names helps you describe it to an artist.

Tips for booking together

• Book one artist so the designs match in style and quality.
• Agree the size and placement before the appointment, and check both stencils before starting.
• Try temporary versions first. Our guide to temporary tattoos explains the options.
• Budget for two tattoos. Many studios charge each tattoo separately, as explained in our tattoo price guide.

For more meaningful ideas, see our guide to celebrity tattoos with real meaning, including friendship tattoos that work beautifully for couples too.