Numerous approaches can be used in these pieces that commemorate the quintessential elements of cowboy fashion. From simple black and gray designs, to pieces that take a more elaborate and illustrative approach, these tattoos demonstrate just how important boots and hats are to the American cowboy.  

3. Black and Gray Photo Realism Western Tattoos

For some people, the best tattoos take a realistic approach and use black and gray ink to achieve this effect. The variety of subject matter that falls under the umbrella of “cowboy” means that any number of different designs can be successfully applied using this photo-realistic approach.  

Many people choose to commemorate the heroes and villains of the Wild West by recreating old school black and white photographs on their bodies, while other folks use their skin as a canvas on which to apply sun baked street scenes that could come straight from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Whatever the cowboy inspired subject matter, a black and gray photo-realistic approach is a great choice.  

4. Neo Traditional Western Tattoos

The neo-traditional tattoo style arose from American traditional and maintains some of the characteristics of this older style while leaving others in the past. The bold lines and bright colors of American traditional are on full display in these modern tattoos, but the strict rules regarding colors and subject matter are kicked to the curb.  

The greater artistic freedom provided by a neo-traditional approach means that artists and clients are able to create and apply more wild and exciting designs, and these pieces inspired by the Wild West are perfect examples of the style.  

5. Western Skull Tattoos

Skulls are some of the most popular images for tattoos, and have been for decades. There is something inherently fascinating about skulls: people are drawn to them and the visceral way they symbolize man’s mortality and our limited time on this earth. In terms of cowboys, skulls are a great way to blend this morbid sentiment into a tattoo. A ghoulish gunslinger, bandana wrapped around his face with a ten gallon hat and six-shooter is a powerful image, and these tattoos are great examples that demonstrate just how exciting these designs can be.