Low-rise jeans, glitter tops and a tattoo peeking out just above your waistband: the 2000s are back, and the lower back tattoo is coming along for the ride. Once a mega trend, then mocked for years, it's now being proudly reclaimed by a new generation. In this post you'll learn where the lower back tattoo comes from, which designs are hot right now and what to keep in mind when you choose this spot.
Lower back tattoo, tramp stamp or caketop?
All names for the same thing: a tattoo on your lower back, usually just above the tailbone and often wide and symmetrical. In English it's known as the tramp stamp, a term that was originally pretty derogatory and mainly used to mock women with this tattoo. In the Netherlands people often call it a caketop. More and more people now use these nicknames with a wink: it's your body and your choice. We just call it a great tattoo.
Why the lower back tattoo is back
Around the turn of the millennium, lower back tattoos were everywhere. Then they went out of fashion and got a bit of a cheesy image. Now that Y2K style is back, lots of people see them completely differently. And honestly, the lower back is a really rewarding spot:
- A nice, wide canvas. Ideal for symmetrical designs that follow the shape of your body.
- You decide when to show it. High-waisted jeans hide it, a crop top or bikini shows it off.
- Combines with other tattoos. A lower back tattoo can later become part of a larger back piece.
Popular lower back tattoo designs
- Butterflies: the ultimate classic, now often in fine line or with tiny stars.
- Ornaments and filigree: elegant swirls in perfect symmetry.
- Tribal: the original 2000s look, now often thinner and more modern.
- Flowers and vines: soft and feminine, or bold with thicker lines.
- Lettering: a word or name in elegant script.
- Combinations: a heart with wings, a sun with rays or a butterfly with flowers.
What to keep in mind with this spot
- Symmetry. A lower back tattoo needs to sit nicely in the centre. Your artist will take the time to place the design at the right height and perfectly centred.
- Pain. How much you feel differs per person. Around the spine and just above the tailbone it can feel more sensitive than on the softer sides.
- Your body changes. Your skin changes with weight and time. Read what that can mean for a tattoo in how weight loss and weight gain affect your tattoos.
- Pair it with piercings. Also fun: a lower back tattoo combined with back dimple piercings. Ask the team about the options when you visit.
Getting your lower back tattoo at Piercings Works
Got a design in mind or still looking for inspiration? Talk it through with the artist, who will tailor the design to the shape of your lower back. You can walk in or book a tattoo appointment in advance. You always get a personal quote. Read how the price is determined in how the price of a tattoo is determined.
Tip: on the day itself, wear something you can easily lower a little, like loose trousers or a skirt.
Aftercare: mind your waistband
A lower back tattoo sits exactly where your trousers or skirt sit, so paying extra attention to clothing is smart. You'll get aftercare advice from us, and everything is in our tattoo aftercare instructions (PDF). In short:
- healing usually takes about 2 weeks;
- avoid tight or dirty clothing on your tattoo, so go for loose trousers with a soft waistband for a while;
- wash your tattoo twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry with a clean towel or tissue;
- no plasters or bandages, and no disinfectants such as Sterilon or Betadine;
- while it heals, no sun or tanning beds (not even with sunscreen), no swimming pools, hot tubs, natural water or saunas; after that, always use a high SPF, especially in your bikini.
Frequently asked questions
Are lower back tattoos still in style?
Absolutely. With the Y2K revival, the lower back tattoo is fully back, often in a fresher, finer style.
Can I have an old lower back tattoo updated?
Often, yes. An existing tattoo can sometimes be touched up or transformed into something new with a cover-up. Talk to the artist about it.
Can I shower with a fresh tattoo?
Yes, showering is fine. Skip baths, swimming pools and saunas until your tattoo has healed.
Ready for your Y2K moment?
Piercings Works has been around since 1998 and at Reguliersbreestraat 46 in Amsterdam since 2004. We hold a GGD licence, have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages. We tattoo from age 18, so bring a valid ID. Adding a piercing to your look? The age rules for piercings are on our minimum age page. Come by and give your lower back a glow-up.