70 Stunning Rib Tattoos for Women That You’ll Want to Copy

Rib tattoos for women are where bold meets beautiful.

They’re edgy, personal, and undeniably stunning.

Whether you’re into delicate florals, meaningful quotes, or intricate designs, rib tattoos are a statement piece that’s as unique as you.

Ready to dive into the world of rib ink? Keep scrolling for tips, ideas, and inspiration.

Unique rib tattoos for women

Butterfly Rib Tattoos

Illustrative style butterfly tattoo on the ribs

Source: reinostorm

Fine line style butterflies tattooed on the ribs

Source: conzthomastattoo

Two butterflies tattooed on the ribs

Source: bery_forestink

Illustrative style butterflies tattoo on the ribs

Source: davidojeda.lu

One-Word Rib Tattoos

Handwritten tattoo of the word "happiness" on the rib

Source: boomzodat

Handwritten "freedom" tattoo on the ribs

Source: reinostorm

Tattoo of the word "perspective" on the ribs

Source: bjmestattoo

Handwritten "positive" tattoo on the ribs

Source: there.ttt

Leaves Tattoo on the Ribs

Illustrative style leaves tattoo on the ribs

Source: Nando Studio

Minimalistic leaves tattoo in red ink located on the rib

Source: bjmestattoo

Leaves tattoo located on the ribs

Source: asya.tattoo

Pro Tip– Start Small if You’re Unsure

If it’s your first rib tattoo, go for a smaller design to test the waters. Rib tattoos can be more painful than other areas, so starting small lets you see how your body handles it. Plus, you can always add to it later if you want something bigger.

Hand poked palm tree tattoo placed on the ribs

Source: handpoked_humancanvases

Porcelain Jellyfish Tattoos

Porcelain jellyfish tattoo located on the ribs

Source: tatuaggidiporcellana

This porcelain jellyfish rib tattoo is a stunning fusion of delicacy and aquatic beauty.

Porcelain jellyfish tattoo located on the ribs

Source: tatuaggidiporcellana

Minimalistic Heart Tattoos

Minimalistic heart tattoo located on the rib

Source: hybridink.helsinki

Fine line style self hug heart shaped tattoo located on the rib

Source: Maniacs Tattoos

Evil Eye Rib Tattoo

Evil eye tattoo located on the ribs, fine line style

Source: hybridink.helsinki

Meaningful Phrase Tattoos

French lettering tattoo located on the ribs

Source: hybridink.helsinki

"Still I rise" lettering tattoo located on the ribs

Source: mnsantanatattoo

"Restart the beautiful life" lettering tattoo on the ribs

Source: playground_tat2

"Trust the process" lettering tattoo on the ribs

Source: isoltattoo

Sea Turtle Rib Tattoo

Sea turtle tattoo located on the ribs

Source: tattooer_jina

Ornamental Rib Tattoos

Ornamental symbol chain tattoo located on the ribs

Source: reinostorm

Single needle ornamental unalome tattoo located on the ribs

Source: joeyhilll

Pro Tip– Timing Matters

Avoid getting a rib tattoo right before a vacation or big event. The healing process requires proper aftercare, and swimming, sun exposure, or tight clothing can mess with it. Give yourself at least two weeks to heal before showing off your ink.

Flower Rib Tattoos

Anemone and eucalyptus tattoo on the ribs, watercolor style

Source: ann_lilya

Fine line style lily flowers tattooed on the ribs

Source: cagridurmaz

Illustrative style peony tattoo located on the ribs

Source: giulia_eightlines

Illustrative style orchid tattoo on the ribs

Source: zozutattoo

Sketch work style rose tattoo located on the ribs

Source: pauline.son

Illustrative style rose with fire tattoo located on.the ribs

Source: ghinkos

Iris flower tattooed on the ribs

Source: Thirteen Tattoo

Illustrative style lily of the valley tattoo located on the ribs

Source: tattooer_intat

Mental Health Tattoos

"Love yourself" lettering tattoo on the rib

Source: clealtattoo

Mental health tattoo on the rib

Source: playground_tat2

Sun and Moon Rib Tattoos

Illustrative style crescent moon tattoo on the rib

Source: cavigliasimone.tattoo

Moon phases tattoo done on the ribs

Source: evantattoo

Pro Tip– Placement Can Change the Look

The ribs give you a lot of flexibility, but placement changes how the design flows with your body. A tattoo closer to your side might look different than one that wraps around to the front or back. Work with your artist to find the best spot for both aesthetics and comfort.

Fine line style sun tattoo on the ribs

Source: i_tats_

"Live by the sun" tattoo on the ribs

Source: gringo_tattoo_swag

Fine line style sun, moon, and wave tattoo on the ribs

Source: hybridink.helsinki

Fine line style hand holding sun and moon tattooed on the ribs

Source: ziv_tattooer

Ornamental sun and moon tattoo located on the ribs

Source: evantattoo

Micro-Realistic Bee Tattoos

Micro-realistic bee tattoo located on the rib

Source: 1991.ink

Micro-realistic bee tattoo located on the rib

Source: lukasemmanuel

Fairy Rib Tattoos

Fine line fairy wings tattoo located on the ribs

Source: conzthomastattoo

Pro Tip– Hydrate and Eat Before Your Session

Rib tattoos can take time and energy, so fuel up beforehand. Drink plenty of water and eat a solid meal to keep your body steady during the session. It’ll help you stay calm and reduce the chance of feeling lightheaded.

Fine line fairies tattoo located on the ribs

Source: hybridink.helsinki

Dragon Tattoo on the Ribs

Three dragons tattooed on the ribs, illustrative style

Source: dobriy_kolshik_tattooing

Fine line style dragons tattooed on the ribs

Source: livaink

Snake Tattoo on the Ribs

Snake tattoo located on the ribs, fine line style

Source: tri_line_tattoos

Collage snake tattoo located on the ribs

Source: polyc_sj

Bird Rib Tattoos

Small bird tattoo on the rib

Source: jingstattoo

Watercolor style barn owl tattoo located on the ribSource: ann_lilya

Watercolor hummingbird tattoo located on the rib

Source: tattooist_dal

Origami Tattoo on the Rib

Origami swan tattoo on the ribs

Source: reinostorm

Pro Tip– Don’t Skip the Aftercare

Healing is just as important as getting the tattoo itself. Keep your rib tattoo clean and moisturized, and avoid tight clothing that might rub against it. Follow your artist’s advice to make sure your ink heals beautifully and lasts for years to come.

Constellation Rib Tattoos

Fine line Cancer constellation tattoo located on the ribs

Source: coldtattoo

Minimalistic style Cancer constellation tattoo located on the ribs

Source: jully_artistt

Minimalistic style Scorpio constellation tattoo located on the ribs

Source: evantattoo

Fine line Cancer constellation tattoo on the ribs

Source: mariasousatattoo

Galaxy Rib Tattoos

Colorful universe tattooed on the ribs

Source: playground_tat2

Small galaxy tattoo on the ribs

Source: nandotattooer

Angel Wing Tattoo

Angel wing tattoo located on the rib

Source: evantattoo

Cross Tattoo on the Rib

Minimalistic style cross tattoo placed on the ribs

Source: jonboytattoo

Flower cross tattoo located on the ribs, illustrative style

Source: renan.sampaio

Matching Tattoos

Matching tree tattoo for the couple

Source: sushi.the.artist

Matching floral Scorpio constellation for bestfriends

Source: tatuagens_deliicadas

Matching tattoo of the word "amore" on the ribs

Source: cavigliasimone.tattoo

Matching fine sun and moon tattoo for best friends

Source: 1991.ink

Matching flower tattoos for best friends

Source: joannamroman

Single Line Rib Tattoo

Single line close faces tattoo on the ribs

Source: Diana

Final Thoughts

Getting a rib tattoo is a bold move that’s equal parts empowering and personal. It’s not just about the design—it’s about the experience, the meaning behind it, and how it makes you feel every time you see it.

But let’s be real: rib tattoos come with their own set of challenges and rewards. If you’re thinking about taking the plunge, here are some tips to make sure your ink journey is smooth and satisfying: 

  • Choose a design that resonates with you: Rib tattoos are close to your heart—literally. Pick something meaningful that you’ll love for years to come. Whether it’s a quote, a symbol, or an intricate piece of art, make sure it reflects who you are. 
  • Consider the size and placement carefully: The ribs offer a lot of space to work with, but they’re also one of the most sensitive areas to tattoo. A larger design might look amazing but could take longer (and hurt more). Smaller designs can be just as impactful if done right. 
  • Be ready for the pain: Let’s not sugarcoat it—rib tattoos hurt more than most other spots because of the thin skin and proximity to bone. But don’t let that scare you off; it’s all part of the process. Take deep breaths and focus on the end result—it’ll be worth it. 
  • Wear something comfortable: On tattoo day, go for loose clothing or something that gives your artist easy access to your ribs without making you feel exposed. Think tank tops or button-down shirts you can easily adjust. 
  • Take care of your tattoo after: Healing is crucial for how your tattoo will look long-term. Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions religiously—keep it clean, moisturized, and out of direct sunlight while it heals. 
  • Trust your artist: Find someone whose style matches what you want and who has experience with rib tattoos. This isn’t the spot to cut corners; a skilled artist will make all the difference in both design and comfort during the session. 
  • Be patient with the process: Rib tattoos can take time, especially if they’re detailed or large-scale pieces. You might need multiple sessions to get everything perfect—and that’s okay! Good ink is worth waiting for.

At the end of the day, rib tattoos for women are more than just body art—they’re a celebration of self-expression and individuality. Whether it’s your first tattoo or one of many, getting inked on your ribs is a bold choice that says a lot about your confidence and style. So go ahead—embrace the pain, enjoy the journey, and wear your new ink proudly!

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