What should I wear to a tattoo appointment?

Tattoos have long since become mainstream: In Germany, according to sources citing Statista , around 17% to almost one in four people are tattooed. As a result, we frequently receive questions about the appropriate outfit for the appointment.

But what's best? In short: comfortable, loose, clean , and in a way that allows your artist good access to the area being tattooed. Anything that rubs, pinches, or constantly slips will annoy you during the session.

• Comfortable and loose: more oversized than tight. You often sit/lie for long periods.
• Easy to put on and take off: ideal are items that you can quickly roll up or open.
• Dark colors: safer in case some paint/ointment gets on them.
• Avoid lint-prone materials: avoid using highly lint-prone materials on the tattoo area.
• Clean & fresh: sounds banal, but it's important – for you and for the studio.

Ideal: a T-shirt or sleeveless/loose shirt . For the upper arm/shoulder, shirts with wider sleeves that you can simply push up are helpful.

Ideally: a button-up shirt or zip-up hoodie that can be opened – with something underneath that can be quickly pulled to the side. If the back is facing outwards, "easily removable" is more important than "stylish".

Ideal: Wide-legged shorts or very loose trousers that you can easily pull up. For thighs: Shorts are almost always the best solution.

The key here is: nothing tight . Choose something you can easily lift or slide to the side. Tight cuffs or hard seams will make the session unnecessarily uncomfortable.

Ideal: Shirts with a wider collar or garments that leave the area exposed. Avoid collars that chafe.

• Clothing that is too tight around the tattoo area (rubs, presses, is annoying).
• White/light-colored favorite items (risk of stains).
• Fuzzy fabrics or “scratchy” materials in that area.
• Expensive jackets/accessories that are bothersome or in the way in the studio.

A hoodie is great for the studio (cool, comfortable) – but only if it doesn't rub against the tattooed area. For long sessions , zip-up hoodies are often more practical than pullovers.

If you're looking for comfortable streetwear for your tattoo appointment, check this out:

• Oversized shirts (loose & comfortable)
• T-shirts (simple & flexible)
• Hoodies (for cool studios)

The best outfit for a tattoo appointment isn't complicated: loose, approachable, and dark . The less your outfit bothers you during the session, the more relaxed your appointment will be.