Whether it’s full back tattoos or on the sleeve, dragon tattoos are mostly for men. These mystic creatures symbolize power, strength and thus become a tattoo element loved by men.
But not all dragon tattoos scream, “I will conquer the world.” From Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Dungeons and Dragons to the Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, more and more women identify themselves with dragons’ beauty and strength.
If you are looking for dragon tattoos for women, we get you covered. They fit perfectly into girls ‘ aesthetics with some twists in the shape, color, and overall designs. From small, minimalist dragons, which you can hide anytime, to intricate body art representing your ambition, these dragon tattoos will give your some inspiration for your next ink.
Before getting a dragon tattoo, it’s important to determine which dragon tells the story you want to tell. Across cultures, dragons are in different shapes of forms with different symbolism. So let’s take a quick look at the types of dragons and their meanings.
Types of dragons and their meaning
Western dragons or European: Resembling lizards or serpents with wings, long legs, and tails, European dragons represent people’s fear for snakes. Thus they are often seen as evil and mysterious monsters.
Chinese and Japanese dragons: In the shape of serpents with carp shapes, four claws, and usually no wings. The eastern dragons, especially Chinese dragons, are a symbol of power or royalty. Both Chinese and Japanese believe dragons bring fortune, wealth, and protection.
Southeast Asian dragons: Also known as Naga, the dragons first appeared in Hinduist folklores in India, Indonesia, Thailand, and other Southeastern countries. Sometimes you will find them on Buddist sculptures. As half-human, half-snakes, they can transform into human form anytime. These dragons are believed to be able to control the weather, especially the rainfall.
Disclaimer: This tattoo collection is for inspiration only. Please do not copy the artwork. If you love these tattoos, follow artists and show them some support.
Beautiful and elegant dragon tattoos for women
Feminine dragon colored tattoo
@tattooist_color.b
One way to make dragon tattoos feminine is to combine dragons with floral elements. The blooming flower in this tattoo softens the edges of a dragon. In addition, the dark grey tone of the dragon makes the pink flowers pop out. Together, they complement each other and create a detailed and elegant design.
Dragon in the starry night
@masa__island
A dragon flying across the night sky, illuminated by the moonlight, is a classic fantasy opening. This shoulder tattoo makes the dreamy scene permanent. A detailed and beautiful tattoo like this decree be a conversation piece for years to come.
Dragon on the outer thigh
@tattooastrid
In fiction or movies, dragons are creatures with elongated body shapes. That’s why the arms and legs are the perfect placements for dragon tattoos, as the space fits these serpent-like animals. Just like this black dragon tattoo, it fills up the outer thigh perfectly.
Floral dragon shoulder tattoo
@harusisun
Dragons fit perfectly into a shoulder tattoo. The curvy body and the tail can extend to the collarbone or to the back, just like this one here.
And one thing that makes this tattoo stand out is its choice of colors. Keeping the dragon black and the flowers scarlet red creates contrast in colors.
Dragon with an arrow
@jaime.ink
Do you have a spirit animal? With the dragon holding an arrow, this Sagittarius tattoo sets an excellent example of combining your favorite animal with your zodiac sign.
Dragon in the cloud
@bium_tattoo
Most Oriental dragons are considered to be holy. They live in the sky and rest in between, as shown in this traditional dragon tattoo.
The body of the dragon intertwines with the clouds, creating a beautiful harmony and a calming feeling. The contrast of the colors also makes this tattoo stand out.
Water dragon
@tattooist_banul
If you want something airy and light, this water tattoo is tailor-made for you. This tattoo combines fantasy and artistry by depicting the entire dragon as the flow of water.
Black dragon ankle tattoo
@pszyps.tattoo
In some cultures, people see dragons as the villain, especially the dark ones. Usually, they have bat-like wings and the tails of the serpents. The dragon in this ankle tattoo is one of them. What makes this tattoo perfect is the gradient black color. It creates a lightness and makes it look good on girls.
Black and white floral dragon with stunning details
@masa__island
Behind the ear dragon tattoo
@choiyun_tattoo
There’s not too much space to work with behind the ear. Thus the ear back is not a common placement for dragon tattoos. But this dragon tattoo is small enough, and at the same time, preserves most details of the creature.
Also, the tattoo artist did a great job in using different shades of black in such a tiny area. So if you want a badass tattoo and need to hide it sometimes, this ear-back dragon tattoo may be what you are looking for.
Haku Japanese dragon tattoo
@poonkaros
Haku, or the White Dragon, is a character in the Japanese anime Spirited Away. In the movie, he first appeared as a kindhearted quiet boy who forgot his name. But in fact, he is a lost river soul and can transform into an icy-white dragon. He saved Chihiro several times from danger. Thus, for many Spirited Away fans, Haku is the symbol of protection and nobility.
Purple dragon and daphnes
@e.nal_.tattoo
From afar, this colorful dragon tattoo looks like a musical note intertwining with orchid flowers. Its shape is so subtle that it still fits girls’ aesthetics despite its size.
Realistic dragon and moon tattoo
@handitrip
Simple dragon silhouette tattoo
@maiapoppytattoo
It’s not easy to tattoo the scales and hair of a dragon in a small area. That’s why dragon tattoos are usually quite big.
This tiny dragon tattoo provides another approach. You can have a small but still believable dragon tattoo by giving up some details and keeping the outline. And the shading on the wings also makes it vivid despite the simplicity.
Rose and dragon tattoo
@9dotstattoo
Rose symbolizes love and purity. In this back tattoo, the dragon becomes part of the roses, with the leaves being the dragon’s fins. A tattoo in such detail would require both time and technique to create.
Intricate dragon neck tattoo
@enigma.tattoo.art
One good thing about dragon and snake tattoos is that you can manipulate the shape and make them fit in most body parts. And this nape tattoo is a perfect example of a well-balanced and badass design.
Moon and dragon tattoo on the back
Read also: 51 Dreamy moon tattoos with meaning
Cute purple dragon and stars
@zoriajulia
Tattoos reflect our aesthetics. And if you are getting a color tattoo, you may want to fill it with your favorite colors. That’s why dragons make an excellent option. They don’t exist, so there’s no limitation on colors. Red, pink, or blue and purple like this one; it’s your preference that matters.
Cute cartoon dragon tattoo
@xinamon_tattoo
Dragons are menacing creatures. But dragon tattoos don’t have to be intimidating. If you want a cute dragon on the skin, this tattoo may give you some inspiration.
The key to getting a tattoo that fits your aesthetics is to find the right tattoo artist. If they have a lot of previous work that you adore, they may create something you like for you.
Matching watercolor dragon tattoos
@_tosz
If you have second thoughts about the dragon being too masculine, adding watercolor is a good way to soften it. And these matching colorful dragon tattoos are great examples. If you and your best friend want to get matching friendship tattoos, these tattoos may be what you are looking for.
Small dragon should tattoo
@alice_b_jb
Dragon tattoos are not always intimidating. Dragons can represent siblings, friends, or family members like this small shoulder tattoo.
Read also: 42 Hearty family tattoos for those who put family first
Small blackwork dragon tattoo
@choiyun_tattoo
Symmetrical dragon chest tattoos
@alina_molido
Soul of a dragon
@k8.tat
Read also: 65 Inspiring quote tattoos about strength, love and life
Traditional Chinese blue dragon
@bium_tattoo
In ancient Chinese mythology, dragons are transformed from snakes. The snakes absorb the energy from the Universe and become another legendary creature named Jiao (蛟). After hundreds of years living in the water, Jiao develops two horns, And a few of them transform into dragons with the ability to fly and control the weather.
In other Chinese mythologies, dragons are once carps. And those who can jump over the Dragon Gate become dragons. So that’s why you will see most Chinese dragons with carp scales.
It’s also worth noted that dragons are symbols of emperors. Only the king can wear clothing with dragons on it. And his palace is the only place you can see dragon decorations.
Triangle dragon tattoo
@patsarunink
The Water Dragon fantasy tattoo
@e.nal.tattoo
In most Asian countries, dragons are often associated with water. In many Asian folklores, dragons control rainfall. This colorful dragon tattoo highlights the connection between dragon and water. And it demonstrates the worship of dragons that is passed down through generations..
Small dragon shoulder blade tattoo
@passiflora_tattoo
Three small dragons
@choiyun_tattoo
Traditional Chinese dragon finger tattoo
@tattooamazingx
Read also: 67 Small and creative finger tattoos with meaning
Fantasy Dragon tattoo
@tattooist_sigak
Small dragon thigh tattoo
@trish__ink
Traditional dragon arm tattoo
@didow.ink
Roaring dragon arm tattoo
@taylornjoyner
Cute Toothless tattoo
@jessicatattoos
Toothless stands out from the franchise How To Train Your Dragons. He is a dragon and is supposed to be fierce and intimidating. But with those huge soulful eyes and a loving personality, Toothless looks more like a puppy than a dragon.
Minimalist dragon outline tattoo
@siqboi
Dragon outside of an oriental window
@e.nal_.tattoo
Detailed dragon thigh tattoo
@raquelromantattoo
This Toothless tattoo captures his adorable personality. And it proves that not all dragons are monster-like. They can be as adorable as a house cat or a puppy.
Dragon and sword tattoo for women
@bium_tattoo
Chinese dragon collarbone tattoo for women
@poonkaros
The dragon looks different from regular Chinese dragons because it is a costume in Dragon Dance, a traditional celebration performance.
Like the Lion Dance, two or more men dance wearing dragon costumes and carrying a dragon head figure in a Dragon Dance. It’s believed that the dance will bring fortune and prosperity to people present. That’s why you will see Dragon dance during Chinese New Year or in opening ceremonies of businesses. This small dragon tattoo carries the same meaning. It symbolizes wealth and protection for the wearer.
Dragon Yin Yang tattoo
@souljah.d
Dragon in flowers
@masa__island
Blood and dragon tattoo
@oozy_tattoo
Scars are the trophy of a fighter. The bloodstains remind me of Drogon, one of the dragons in Game of Thrones. Because of the battles he went through, he was often covered with wounds. But he never backed down in a fight, just like the one in this tattoo. They are both symbols of bravery and strength. And such a tattoo will empower you to forge forward despite challenges and setbacks.
Cat dragon tattoo for girls
@jojovilll
Is it a cat, or is it a dragon? The artist Jojo has created a series of adorable cartoon characters. And this cat-dragon is one of them. So if you love both cats and dragons, this cute ink may give you some ideas.
Symmetrical double dragon back tattoo
@tattoounderground_pl
A back tattoo like this one will take hours to complete. But it’s worth the pain and the money. The silhouette of both dragons fits the shape of scapulas. From afar, they look like armor that protects the wearer. So if you need dragon tattoos for women to ignite your fighter spirit, this may be it.
Dragon diagram tattoo
@n1co_tattoo
Dragon trainer tattoo for girls
@scarlettpokes
Full back dragon tattoo
@minhdo.tattoo