What to Wear to Your Tattoo Appointment

What you wear to your tattoo appointment can make a huge difference in your comfort, your artist’s ability to work, and how easily you can relax during the process. Think of it as dressing for a cozy day (one where you get stabbed a little bit) — with just a little extra planning for the tattoo zone.

Here’s your guide to dressing smart for every tattoo placement:

Overall Tips on What to Wear to Your Tattoo Appointment

• Privacy perks: All tattoos at Solana Tattoo Company are done in private rooms. We can shut the door upon request, and you’re welcome to bring a friend or partner to hang out with you and the artist. If you’d like another team member in the room with you and your artist, just ask! We want you to feel comfortable, always.

• Make Morticia Addams happy: Dark clothes are best when getting a tattoo. Ink can splatter, so save your favorite white shirt and fresh white Jordans for another day.

• Clear the hair. For all upper body tattoos, bring a hair tie, clip, or scrunchie to keep your hair up and away from the tattoo area.

• Get loose and comfy. Think loose, dark, comfy. Sweats, joggers, oversized tees. Yes, please. Avoid tight waistbands, stiff fabrics, or anything you’d hate to get ink on.

What to Wear for Shoulders, Arms, and Chest

JD applying a stencil to a shoulder area. Photo by Cinesinner

• Great choices: Halter tops, spaghetti-strap tank tops, tube tops.

• Extra coverage: If you're a chilly willy, bring a long cardigan, jacket, or flannel to keep one arm warm while leaving the tattoo area open.

• Bonus tip: You’re welcome to bring your own cozy blanket. We don’t provide blankets or pillows (they can’t be sanitized); you’ll notice all our surfaces are made with material that can be sterilized between clients. But you can BYOB (bring your own blankey). Just toss it in the wash when you get home!
  

Sternum, Ribs, and Stomach

• Best bets: A zip-up hoodie, jacket, flannel, or cardigan. Layers are your friend.

• For sternum tattoos: Pasties are a smart option for comfort and modesty. If you're not a burlesque dancer with a stash of pasties at home, we can provide them for you. Just ask!
  

Back Tattoos

Helena tattooing a back. Photo by Geoff Worcester

• Try wearing a hoodie or shirt backward for comfort and coverage.

• You may want pasties, too.

• Lower back tattoo? Loose pants or shorts that can be pulled down slightly work best.
  

Wrists and Ankles

• Remove watches, jewelry, and bracelets.

• For ankle or lower leg tattoos, avoid tall or tight socks and tall boots.
  

Upper Legs, Hips, and Thighs

EZ tattooing a thigh. Photo by Cinesinner

• Hips: Long, flowy skirt with a high slit or string bikini bottoms work well.

• Thighs/knees: Workout shorts, loose shorts, or stretchy shorts that you can pull up above the area.
  

Aftercare Clothing Tips

• During healing, wear loose, fuzz-free clothing. You don't want fuzz balls stuck in your ointment.

• Skip tight bras, clingy leggings, and heavy jewelry near the tattoo site.

• In the summer, lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen protect from sun and let your skin breathe.
  

Pro tip: Comfort isn’t just about what you wear. It’s about feeling at ease in your space. At Solana Tattoo Company, we’ll make sure you feel safe, respected, and ready to enjoy your session from start to finish.