11 Tramp Stamp Tattoo Ideas to Usher in Their Inevitable Return

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc/Getty Images Beauty Forgive the pejorative terminology, but the divisive tattoo is making a comeback in the sex positive era. by Laura Pitcher Updated: Feb. 20, 2024 Originally Published: Aug. 11, 2021

Of all the Y2K trends that are currently making a comeback, the tramp stamp may be the most surprising. The tattoo placement basically personified the hypersexualization our favorite early 2000s icons like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Drew Barrymore. But much like Britney’s treatment by the media, we’re looking at lower back tattoos in 2021 through a different lens upon entering their revival era. In fact, there are already over 22 million views on the hashtag #TrampStamp on TikTok . Tramp stamps no longer bear the same stigma the moniker suggests, they are back and looking cooler and more personal than ever. Here’s some inspiration if you want to get involved, whether with permanent or temporary ink.

Jason Squires/WireImage/Getty Images Lettering If you have a meaningful word or phrase, you may want to opt for lettering. As with any tattoo placement, partner's names are not recommended. (See Christina Aguilera, who tattooed “I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine” in Hebrew, right above her now ex-husband's initials.)

@neeoonnnn / Instagram Floral Band Perhaps the design most reminiscent of the 2000s, a floral band, is a bold, yet feminine tattoo design. Match your band with low-rise jeans and a visible thong for a full Y2K look.

Inkbox Symmetrical Patterns Because tramp stamps are usually located in the middle of your back, symmetrical patterns make for a balanced look. This one is temporary, sold by cult favorite Ink Box . Each tattoo lasts one to two weeks, for less commitment.

Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic/Getty Images Cross Nicole Richie’s memorable tattoo placed extremely low on the back only just peeks out from a backless dress. (But FYI, she has since had this tattoo removed.)

@elionakry / Instagram Butterfly Another Y2K classic, the butterfly tattoo may be one of the most common designs, but it’s also one of the cutest. Miscellaneous line work optional.

Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty Images Animals The iconic Aaliyah had a dove on her lower back, in dedication to her grandmother.

@tankairstudios / Instagram Block Patterns This upturned block pattern temporary back tattoo by Tank Air is the finishing touch on any open back outfit.

@juju.tattoos / Instagram Skull If cute and dainty isn’t your thing, try a lower back skull placement for a badass tramp stamp.

Mitchell Gerber/Corbis Entertainment/Getty Images Cherubs and Angels An angel herself, Drew Barrymore showed off her tramp stamp at Lollapalooza in 1995, which featured cherubs and a cross.

@madamartyr / Instagram Heart With Wings This shaded heart with wings juxtaposed cute and edgy elements. New York-based tattoo artist Mada Martyr created the design.

Twitter The Bigger, The Better Miley Cyrus recently got a lower back tattoo and while we can’t tell exactly what it is, it takes up a considerable portion of her lower back and fully commits to the tramp stamp aesthetic.

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