If you've been itching to add some new ink to your collection or thinking about getting your first tattoo ever, you might consider Roman numeral tattoos. Chances are, you know someone with this style of ink — it's a classic. Even if you think of yourself as more of a one word or quote-tattoo lover than a numbers person, the design is a great way to express a special memory or experience. Roman numeral tattoo meanings range from sentimental dates (whether it's an anniversary or a loved one's birthday) to lucky numbers.
Whether you're looking for something tiny that can easily hidden or a larger piece that draws lots of attention, there are many Roman numeral tattoo ideas to choose from. It's also easy to incorporate popular motifs like flowers or a paw print with this design, should you want to craft something more unique.
Ahead, we've rounded up some of the best inspiration photos that show off an array of different options for your perfect Roman numeral tattoo. Whether you're looking for location and style ideas — or just want to consider all of your options before committing to your own design — keep reading for some pretty Roman numeral tattoo ideas.
If you prefer a Roman numeral tattoo idea that are easy to hide, opt for an inner-arm placement for your tattoo.
It's easy to conceal your Roman numeral tattoo on your fingers. Just make sure to put the design on the inside of your chosen digit.
Want to make sure you'll always be able tp see your Roman numeral tattoos? Get your designs on the inside of your wrist.
If you want to make sure that everyone else will be able to see your piece, opt for an outer arm placement so that you can show it off year-round.
Upper arm tattoo placements are also great if you want to make sure that you see your tattoos at all times.
A more unique tattoo placement is on the tops of the shoulders. Easy enough to hide if you don't want too many people to see it, but even easier to show off whenever you want.
Want a super sexy placement for your Roman numeral tattoo? Consider the back and more specifically, the spine.
Tiny tattoos make the perfect accessory for the back of the ankle. WHether you want to add color or keep it simple with black ink, imagine how good your legs will look in your favorite shoes?
Looking for something bold that can't be missed? Opt for a chest-place tattoo in bold font like the one seen here.
Your Roman numeral tattoo doesn't have to be relegated to black ink only. Add some splotches of color throughout for some extra visual intrigue.
While they are said to be a little painful, behind-the-ear tattoo designs are another great placement idea for your Roman numeral tattoos, especially if you like more minimal designs.
Your Roman numeral tattoo doesn't have to be a standalone design. Pair it with some abstract line work like the design seen here for your own personal piece of art.
If you're a lover of florals, add your favorite plant to your Roman numerals design.
Roman numeral tattoos can also be soft and dainty. This one uses a stick-and-poke technique to create thin lines, making it perfect for minimalists.
Have more than one date that holds a speacial place in your heart? Stack each of your Roman numeral designs to commemorate them all.
Roman numeral tattoos make the best designs to get alongside a loved one like a best friend or partner.
Circular Roman numeral designs are intirguing to the eye, so should you get one expect the compliments too continuously roll in.
Small Roman numeral tattoos are perfect for people who are getting tattoos for the first time.
If you don't want to get a full date in Roman numerals for your tattoo, opt for a single number.
The best thing about forearm tattoos is that you don't have to stick with one font for your Roman numeral design. This piece utilizes slightly thicker lines for a bolder take on a more minimal tattoo.
If your Roman numeral tattoo also happens to be a memorial piece, get your loved one's signature right above the design.
The designs around your Roman numeral tattoos are just as important as the numerical design itself. The details in this rose make the entire design look much more elevated.
Don't be afraid to get creative with your tattoo designs. This one incorporates intricate arrows along with names and Roman numerals.
Being more playful with the font that you use is also a fun way to elevate your Roman numeral tattoo.
Roman numerals can also be an accent in a larger piece rather than the entire design itself. Just look at the gorgeous geometric design.
If you love arrow tattoos, consider incorporating Roman numerals into the design rather than around it.
You can't go wrong with opting for a realistic flower somewhere around your Roman numeral tattoo. The shading and red color make this rose look hyper-realistic.
A simple line detail takes this Roman numeral tattoo up a notch. It could make for a great starting point if you eventually opt for a sleeve.
The outer elbow is another unusual area that works perfectly for Roman numeral tattoos. You'll be sure to catch a few eyes on your design with this placement.
Spine tattoos don't have to span the entire length of the back to be impactful. This tiny design is simple yet elegant.
Is your special date commemorating someone important to you? Add a crown on top of your Roman numeral design to let the world know that you're frequently in the presence of royalty.
Gradient numbers add another fun visual element to any design, but especially one that is Roman numerals based.
If you want to keep the numbers in your design a single color, add a few more shades to the designs surrounding your numerical design.
— Additional reporting by Ariel Baker, Lauren Harano, and Renee Rodriguez
Emily Orofino was a former editor for PS Beauty.
Ariel Baker is the associate editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.
Lauren Harano is a contributor for PS and was formerly an editor for the Living, Beauty, and Shop departments. She's a Southern-California-native-turned-New-Yorker with a passion for skin care, murder mysteries, and online shopping. Aside from PS, her work can be found in the pages of Cosmopolitan and Seventeen as well as online at InStyle, Esquire, NBC, and various food and travel sites.
Renee Rodriguez is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for PS's TikTok and Instagram accounts.