Contents
- 1 Slithering Snake
- 2 Garter Snake
- 3 Hidden In Plain Sight
- 4 Red Flowers
- 5 Snakeskin
- 6 Red Snake
- 7 Mirroring Serpents
- 8 Going in Circles
- 9 Twin Flames
- 10 Shady Snake
- 11 Swimming in Lilies
- 12 Sternum
- 13 Leopard Snake
- 14 Botanical Beauty
- 15 Tiny Finger Tattoo
- 16 Moon Snake
- 17 Abstract Snake
- 18 Bare-Bones Snake
- 19 Python Incoming
- 20 Wrapped Around Your Finger
January 29 marks the first day of the Year of the Snake.
The Lunar New Year is almost here—ushering in the Year of the Snake—and with it comes a surge in snake tattoos as people embrace the holiday through ink (and in the form of snake nails). This year, the snake symbolizes a period of transformation and shedding what no longer serves us.
“The wood snake is known for its ability to use its hard work to evolve and grow,” explains astrologer Lisa Stardust. “As a symbol of rebirth and renewal, the snake reminds us to shed old habits and regenerate.” Snake tattoos are a classic design that will always remain timeless, offering endless versatility in how they can be interpreted. Just look at Zoë Kravitz’s minimalistic snake tattoo or Miley Cyrus’s bold serpent design—while their approaches differ, both convey the same powerful symbolism of the snake. “My clients usually choose snake designs for the significance of protection, intelligence, and spirituality,” shares London-based tattoo artist Saskia Patrice.
Meet the expert
- Lisa Stardust is an astrologer and author. Saskia Patrice is a tattoo artist based in London. Jessica Valentine is a tattoo artist based in New York.
This blend of deep symbolism and design flexibility is part of what makes snake tattoos so popular among tattoo enthusiasts. As New York-based tattoo artist Jessica Valentine explains, “The fun thing about snakes is that you can manipulate them into almost any shape or size you want! They’re great for wrapping around limbs, filling in gaps, or creating a malleable design.” For those embracing the Year of the Snake with ink, the real magic lies in creating something that feels personal. “Find symbolism that is meaningful to you,” Valentine advises. “Work with your artist; brainstorm together and collaborate. This is how you get the best outcome.” And if you're looking for any ideas on placement, Patrice explains that most people prioritize snakes on their forearms as a form of protection or on the sternum and ribs, so it‘s close to the heart.
Ahead, explore 20 snake tattoos to rattle up some inspiration for your next ink appointment. From minimalist designs to bold, intricate serpents, these tattoos offer a range of ways to embody the animal’s resilience and strength. Ready to make a statement with your next piece of art?
Slithering Snake
An elegant and minimalist take, this tattoo features clean lines and subtle geometric patterns that mimic scales. The curves makes it look the snake is in motion, ready to slither away to the next best thing.
Garter Snake
Who knew garter snakes could be so chic? This hand-poked tattoo has a fun, textured feel and I love how the twisted design makes it feel so dynamic. It’s simple but has that perfect touch of style that makes it stand out.
Hidden In Plain Sight
What is your tattoo sleeve missing you ask? A snake slithering along your upper arm. This one adds a sense of movement that really draws the eye.
Red Flowers
This spine tattoo is absolutely stunning, blending together an ideal mix of sophistication and edge. While the black-ink snake coils gracefully down the spine, the soft red floral accents add a touch of femininity and a beautiful contrast. It's a lesson in balance that feels particularly fitting for the year ahead.
Snakeskin
So, you want a snake tattoo but don't something too on-the-nose? Got you. This snakeskin tattoo is a subtle way to get in on the symbolism without having to go all out. And it looks pretty cool while doing so.
Red Snake
Stardust notes red as a lucky color for snakes that "gives them strength." And this geometric-heavy serpent certainly screams "powerful," don't you think?
Mirroring Serpents
These matching snake tattoos are seriously so cool—bold, clean, and statement-making. The crisp line work and coiled scale details give the snakes a modern, unique vibe.
Going in Circles
Coiled into a perfect circle, this black-and-orange patterned snake with subtle florals is a masterpiece. I love how simple it is while also feeling incredibly symbolic.
Twin Flames
This tattoo is pure artistry, with two large symmetrical snakes intertwining across the back. Their elongated bodies dance seamlessly into loops and curves, creating an intricate knot-like design.
Shady Snake
While shadiness is indeed a known, not-so-great quality of snakes, in this case, we're calling it a good thing. The bold black lines and soft floral details work so well together here, and the strong shading really brings it to life.
Swimming in Lilies
Snakes and gardens go hand-in-hand. This design features one winding through lilies that feels especially graceful, almost as if it were part of the flowers.
Sternum
This sleek underboob tattoo features a snake with a bold black and orange patterned design that feels edgy and alluring. The way it curves naturally along the ribcage gives it some dimension and a subtle, natural flow.
Leopard Snake
Let's be clear: Leopard print is a neutral. This leopard snake is trendy, fun, and so stylish. What's not to love?
Botanical Beauty
This snake is almost completely camouflages within a bouquet of flowers. Intertwined in the florals, this design makes it feel as though our serpentine friend is simply admiring the beauty it surrounds.
Tiny Finger Tattoo
Finger tattoos are some of the cutest, most delicate ways to play around with ink. This tiny, minimalist snake is shown off right in the center middle finger—making a declaration of its presence without necessarily screaming it in our faces.
Moon Snake
Ready to lean into what the stars have in store for you this year? The snake’s body weaves gracefully across the upper arm, surrounding a delicate crescent moon that adds a touch of mystery and inspiration.
Abstract Snake
This brush-stroke tattoo looks like a paintbrush was swept around the leg to create the most stunning, slithering snake. Talk about a work of art.
Bare-Bones Snake
Clean and minimal is the name of the game here. The soft shading on this tattoo adds just the right amount of detail to make it pop
Python Incoming
The python commands presence, and here, it lets us know just how much spirit it truly has. With its mouth wide open and a large surface area coiled around the thighs all the way down to the ankles, this is one statement-maker you won't forget.
Wrapped Around Your Finger
Wrap a snake around your finger for a playful vibe that will replace your favorite ring stack.