Tattoos are a way to make a statement or to communicate an idea. But you don’t need to be loud in order to be heard. A small, subtle tattoo can sometimes be better than a million words.

And that’s why small tattoos are getting stronger than ever. People are inking meaningful symbols, beautiful ornaments, words, and quotes as a sneak peek of their personalities. Whatever design you opt for, it won’t be over the top because of the size.

Compared to those for men, small tattoos for women are, of course, more feminine. But they can be cute, meaningful, sleek, or bold as well. They can also be perfect for matching tattoos with friends and families.

If you are looking for something discreet and subtle but still represent who you are, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve gathered a giant collection of small tattoos for women. From simple to intricate, abstract to realism, you will find something that speaks to you personally and fits your aesthetics.

Disclaimer: This collection of small tattoos for women is for inspiration only. Please do not copy the artwork. If you love these tattoos, follow artists and show them some support.

Beautiful small tattoos for women with

Black and grey small tattoo ideas for girls

Just because a tattoo is black and grey doesn’t mean it’s boring. The following small tattoos are perfect for women who want simplicity and personality in one design.

Matching earth and moon shoulder tattoos for women

@nhi.ink

The earth and the moon may be two different celestial bodies. But in a way, they are codependent. These small matching tattoos are the perfect representation of two different personalities that complement each other.

Small snake behind the ear

@choiyun_tattoo

The meaning of snake tattoos largely depends on the design. A bold, outrageous snake emphasizes its threatening and dangerous side. But a small, dainty behind-the-ear tattoo accentuates its mysteriousness.

Matching initial tattoos for best friends

@yungtalie

If you are looking for a tiny tat that represents your identity, initial tattoos are for you. A small letter on the skin is dainty enough for both men and women.

Micro-realism rabbit

@tattxxist

It’s not easy to tattoo something realistic on the skin. And it is even more challenging on such a small scale. But the tattooist really pulls it off and captures every detail of this cute little rabbit.

Angel tattoo

@tattoobydorna

Angel tattoos represent purity and the beauty of a soul. But they can also be interpreted as the guardian angel on the skin, protecting the wearers from harm and negative energy.

Small dragon tattoo

@choiyun_tattoo

Dragon tattoos are no doubt fierce and badass. But compared to the large ones, small dragon tattoos have an extra femininity and elegance that make them stand the test of time.

Minimalist moon and initial

@tattooer_jina

If a single letter is too simple for you, why not pair it up with a feminine element to create a dainty look? This wrist tattoo combines the moon with the letter J, which looks like waves. Together, these two motifs resemble the seascape at night.

Tiny golden snitch Harry Porter tattoo

@handitrip

The Golden Snitch holds a special place at heart for Harry Porter fans and thus often appears in Harry Porter tattoos. This tiny Golden Snitch subtly expresses the wearer’s passion and belief in magic and miracles.

Simple elephant wrist tattoo

@mrs.tattoo_

As one of the largest land animals, elephants are a symbol of strength and calmness that help them survive in the wild. They are also loyal to their pack. And together, they form a safe place for each other. Thus for those who value their family, an elephant tattoo is the perfect option.

Camera line art tattoo

@xitattoostudio

If you are deeply into your passion or profession, why not wear it on your sleeve? This camera tattoo is made of fine lines, simple but expressive.

Turtle collarbone tattoo

@oitattooer

As one of the most long-living animals on the planet, turtles often symbolize wisdom and longevity. And because their shells protect them against harm, turtle tattoos also carry the connotation of protection and strength. So if you want to emphasize your resilient and powerful side, these cute turtles below the collarbone can be a good idea.

Small Christmas teddy bear

@stefano__mazza

Tattoos may be only for adults. But that doesn’t stop people from wearing their inner child on the skin. This cute toy bear tattoo is a good example. And the hat just adds the right amount of festive vibes to it.

Coffee tattoo on the wrist

@jessy_tattooer

Are you someone who can’t live without coffee? If so, this cute small wrist tattoo will represent your love for coffee.

Minimalist behind-the-ear butterfly tattoo

@vera_lines

Butterfly tattoos can be as huge and complicated as you want. But you can also simplify and keep only the basic silhouette to show your minimalist attitude.

Cute cowboy hat

@oatmilktattoo

Wants to add personality to a tattoo? This cowboy hat is the perfect decoration that combines femininity and masculinity.

Small cute paper fan tattoo

@emilyjtattoos

Tattoos say a lot about a person’s personality and also the origin. This paper fan shoulder tattoo with cranes and flowers tells where she’s from. The details and the oriental style make it personal and special.

Cute small sock tattoo

@evelyn.tatts

Another adorable small tattoo for women that recalls one’s childhood memory. If you have an item with special meaning, why not turn it into a permanent decoration on the skin?

Floral dragon waist tattoo

@seung_tattoo

Dragons might be fearsome, especially in tattoos for men. But this small floral dragon on the waist looks completely harmless because of the flowers. It’s perfect for a strong woman who wants an empowering yet elegant tattoo.

Meaningful love tattoo

@newtattoo_demi

Love tattoos are evergreen. If you want to share your point of view about love or to honor a loving relationship, this bicep tattoo may inspire your creative thoughts.

Super cute small dinosaur tattoo

@nhi.ink

Many people relate to dinosaurs not because of their menacing looks but for how cute they can be. This dinosaur tattoo captures the adorable side of the beast while keeping the design simple.

Minimalist lightning tattoo

@wooha_ta2

Lighting turns night into day in a split second. A double lightning tattoo like this will be a perfect addition to someone determined, ambitious, and fearless.

Tiny ornament neck tattoo

@pokedbypeachs

Most neck tattoos are eye-catching because of the placement’s exposure. But this one is different. Because of how small it is, it remains a discreet ornament even when it is placed in the middle of the neck.

Simple dragonfly tattoo

@lukasemmanuel

Dragonflies represent good luck and prosperity because, in some cultures, your wishes come true at the sight of a dragonfly. So if you are a dreamer and are unafraid to pursue your passion, a small dragonfly will be a token of your courage.

Small and simple moon tattoo

@halinczi

Moon tattoos are so loved because of their simplicity and abundant symbolism. While a full moon represents wholeness, a waxing moon like this symbolizes new beginnings and motivation.

Small four-leaf clover wrist tattoo

@tattoobychang

Because most clovers have three leaves, a four-leaf clover is considered a lucky charm. A tiny tattoo on the wrist like this will bring you positive energy and remind you of the blessings you have.

Small heart on fire hip

@akkurat_tattoo

Are you someone that feels strongly and loves deeply? If so, this tattoo depicting a heart on fire will represent who you are.

Small heart

@helentattootx

Small ladybug tattoo

@pelinnsimsek

Something as small as a ladybug is naturally a good fit for subtle tattoos. Like dragonflies, ladybugs are seen as a symbol of good luck because people believe their visits bring good fortune.

These little insects also represent femininity and beauty under a tough shell. So if you are a tough woman with a soft heart, or you want to invite good energies into your life, consider getting a ladybug tattoo like this one.

Small tree tattoo

@tattooist_namoo

Tree tattoos have different meanings depending on the species and design. For example, a birch tree tattoo represents rebirth and new beginnings. If the roots are connected to a circle around the tree, it becomes a tree of life tattoo symbolizing the endless life cycle.

Tiny butterfly waist tattoo

@alegomeztattoo

Tattoos on the waist can be easily covered, making them perfect for those who opt for low exposure. Whether it’s a small butterfly like this or something bolder, the waist is an ideal placement that allows you to control the visibility of your tattoo.

Symmetrical ornamental collarbone tattoos

@tattooer_jina

Small color tattoos for women

Just because a tattoo is small doesn’t mean it has to be simple. You can add personality and shine with a unique color palette. So if you are into colorful designs, don’t miss out on the following small tattoos for women.

Flowers under boob tattoo

@tattooist_naro

Just like those between the boobs or on the sternum, underboob tattoos are appealing because of how intimate the placement is. A floral design like this not only complements the flow of the body but also keeps the look elegant and clean.

Golden natural symbols tattoo

@jooa_tattoo

These small tattoos on the wrist include the sun, lightning, a star, and the moon phase. They are perfect for those who are drawn to the force of nature. And the golden color just makes these simple tattoos more fascinating.

Adorable cat tattoo

@tattoo_artist_olive

If you are a proud cat owner, chances are you may have considered getting a cat tattoo. It’s a gesture of love as well as a reminder of the company you have.

Bee ear tattoo

@hannahmespinoza

Bees are loyal to their family and community. They are also diligent and hardworking. So bee tattoos are often a reminder to improve yourself constantly and to make progress.

Diamond heart

@munjeong_tatu

The good thing about diamond tattoos is they have a natural shine, whether black or in color. If you opt for something fancier, you will love a multi-dimensional look like this one.

Autumn leaf name tattoo

@tattoo_artist_olive

Beautiful flower tattoos on both wrists

@guseul_tattoo

Cute small cat ankle tattoo

@songe.tattoo

A tattoo with vibrant colors can catch the eye from a distance. But if you want to tone the volume down a little, consider ankle tattoos.

Because the placement is below eye level, a tattoo on this area will not be over the top, even as vibrant as this micro-realism cat tattoo.

Small matching shoulder tattoos

@sinbar_tattoo

There is nothing better than getting matching tattoos with your best friend for life. These pair of peaches just highlight the girly side of these BFFs.

Girly ribbon tattoo

@guseul_tattoo

Glowing heart small tattoo for women

@reg.poke

Micro-realism apple

@eden_tattoo_

Tattooist Eden is skilled at manipulating colors, even on a scale as small as this one. The different shades of red and the light hitting the apple are all captured to perfection, giving a pop of color to the skin.

Rainbow heart

@zilandogantattoo

Small infinity symbol finger tattoo

@tattooist_chio

The infinity symbol used to be purely mathematical. But today, it represents an endless life cycle and eternity. A small inner finger tattoo like this will be a subtle statement of what you believe in wholeheartedly.

Simple abstract flamingo chest tattoo

@mat.tattoo.studio

Small evil eye arm tattoo

@deni.tattooing

In ancient Egyptian folklore, the eye was believed to be evil. However, when it is turned into a talisman known as the “evil eye,” it becomes a symbol of protection. So if you want to ward off negative energies, a tiny evil eye tattoo may be what you are looking for.

Small cherry blossom tattoo

@tattooist_namoo

The meaning of flower tattoos largely depends on the species. Take cherry blossom tattoos as an example. Because cherry blossoms have a short life span, they are a reminder of the passing of time and how precious life is. The meaning behind the flowers makes this tiny tat a deep one.

Tiny red snake hip tattoo

@nhi.ink

Hip tattoos are one of the most sought-after ink ideas now. Usually placed near the groin area, these tattoos are intimate. And a red snake on this placement adds extra mysteriousness to the skin.

Small blue rose foot tattoo

@sinbar_tattoo

Rose tattoos never go out of style because of the endless possibilities of colors and designs.

The blue rose, for example, is a symbol of rarity. It doesn’t exist in nature. Therefore, blue rose tattoos are perfect for those who think outside the box and are not afraid to stand out.

Small full moon tattoo

@handitrip

Wine glass

@nains_tattoo

Tiny chilly wrist tattoo

@tattooer_jina

Cute and spicy, this small chilly on the wrist says a lot about the wearer’s personality.

Tiny rainbow

@west4tattoo

Rainbow tattoos are more than beautiful. As the rainbow symbolizes the LGBTQ community and inclusivity, a rainbow tattoo, no matter how small, reflects the wearer’s support for equality.

Small gemstone tiara

@mini.b_tats

Small lotus tattoo for women

@handitrip

A lotus flower symbolizes calmness, inner peace, and mindfulness. That’s why it often appears in yoga tattoos, helping the wearers to feel grounded. Even if you are not a yogi, a lotus tattoo will still guide you to find peace and zen.

Peachy

@tattoo_artist_olive

Tiny blue flower ankle tattoo

@tilda_tattoo

Meaningful small tattoos

Some people get tattoos for aesthetic reasons, while others use them to tell a story.

If you are opting for something tiny, the canvas may be limited. But a tattoo can still be small and personal at the same time. The following small meaningful tattoos for women will inspire you to find the design you resonate with.

Be happy quote tattoo

@mrs.tattoo_

Quote tattoos are a clear expression of the wearers’ point of view. As small as they can be, they still reflect the wearer’s life mottos, just like this simple forearm tattoo.

Love yourself

@tattooer_jina

How you love yourself sets an example of how others should love you. This tiny self-love tattoo will remind the wearer to put herself first and not settle for less.

Small hourglass tattoo

@wittybutton_tattoo

“Time is the only thing we have and don’t.” This small hourglass tattoo reminds us that time is precious. And instead of waiting for the perfect timing, we should live in the moment and make it happen.

Matching boats small tattoos for women

@lizatatt

Boats represent one’s journey and exploration into the world. But they can also symbolize one’s way back home.

So if you have someone that feels home to you, whether your sibling or best friend, matching boat tattoos will be a tribute to the precious bond.

Rare

@xoxotattoo

A word can say a million things. This one-word tattoo carries the wearer’s belief in her uniqueness. She knows her worth and will always be her truest self.

Small book and zodiac sign

@browlouiejenn

Books often appear in teacher tattoos or bookworm tattoos. They carry the wearers’ curiosity and pursuit of knowledge. Adding a zodiac sign makes it even more personal and meaningful.

Small pearl tattoo

@seung_tattoo

Divine – one-word tattoo

@hybridink.helsinki

Growth – small meaningful tattoo for women

@kurtistattoo

Transformation takes time. And sometimes, your progress might be too small to notice. But it doesn’t change the fact that you are evolving.

This small tattoo about growth tells the truth that changes might be invisible at the beginning. But with time and effort, it will blossom into something beautiful.

Small ring finger cross

@nhi.ink

Tiny anchor inner finger tattoo

@thevirtues_beauty_tattoos

The anchor keeps ships from floating away. And an anchor tattoo symbolizes the same grounding force that provides guidance and security.

Meaningful mom dad tattoo

@nhi.ink

One of the biggest blessings in life is having parents that love and support you. Sounds like yours? A mom dad tattoo like this will be the best gift for your parents and express your gratitude.

Moon phase tattoo

@tattooadosinspira

She is art

@lto_ink

Your body, mind, and soul are both pieces of art. This back-of-the-neck tattoo will remind you to appreciate yourself more and embrace your worth.

Tiny plane tattoo

@west4tattoo

Plane tattoos hold special meanings for those who are away from home. They remind them never to lose their way, and that family will always be there for them.

Small simple unicorn tattoo

@zlosliwa_sztuka

Unicorn tattoos often have vibrant, rainbow colors. But even in black, this tiny unicorn will still remind the wearer of her magic within.

Intricate wave tattoo

@cancho.mini

Water tattoos have the natural movements that make a static design come to life. If you want something dynamic, these small waves may be a good fit for you.

On fire

@nashvilletinytattoos

Tiny paw arm tattoo

@loko_lines

Why not

@joannamroman

Small sibling ankle tattoo

@tattoobychang

These three tiny dancing figures are a lot of fun. They can represent three siblings or friends who enjoy each other’s company.

Eye of Horus

@nhi.ink

The eye of Horus is a symbol that has been used for centuries to protect against evil and bad luck. It was believed to have magical properties and was often found on amulets and talismans. A tiny eye of Horus tattoo will bring the wearer healing energies and strength.

Hold my hand

@pauline.son

Searching for light

@masa_tattooer

Dandelion rib tattoo

@tattoosbyeden

One of the most popular tattoo motifs is the dandelion, which is actually a weed. But they have become a symbol of many different meanings. They represent rebirth, good luck, and the courage to move on from past traumas.

Tiny musical note side wrist tattoo

@nhi.ink

If you love music, nothing better represents your passion than a musical note. The tattooist adds an orbit surrounding the symbol and makes it even more interesting.

Which of these small tattoos for women is your favorite?

Leave your thoughts in the comment down below!