Fashionably Tattooed

If we took a survey of everyone who lived in Greenpoint, Williamsburg and Bushwick, it’s a safe bet that 4 out of 5 people in our neck of the woods have a tattoo of some kind. The question is, why? It’s expensive, risky and let’s not forget the side order of pain and agony it comes with. The answer? While it makes a statement, most consider it ‘fashion’. Fickle-less fashion, that is.

People have been tattooing themselves since the beginning of civilization; some say as far back as 5,000 years ago. Ancient tribes in countries such as India, China, parts of Africa and New Zealand did so for village or community rank. This tradition continues to present day with a whole new vibe to “flashing ink.”

Until recently, in the US, tattoos were only considered acceptable by a small, specific demographic. Generally, only among prisoners, military personnel or circus performers was it considered acceptable, even expected to have tattooed your body.

In 2011, those who choose to go under the needle pick a design that is representative of who they are or how they feel, or commemorative of someone or something from their past. People with multiple tattoos or ‘sleeves’, usually have complete stories that go along with each piece of artwork.

“Tattoos are meant to be seen, not hidden,” says Ben, a local jeweler here in Brooklyn who is proud to show off his ‘sleeved’ arms and partially covered legs. “As long as I dress well, I am allowed to roll up my sleeves or wear short sleeve shirts during the day. I’m good at what I do; therefore they don’t give me hard time about all of my tattoos. My customers respect me and know I do good work regardless of my image.” Even though Ben does often get stereotyped as a ‘hipster’ or a ‘guy in a band,’ he’s proud of his artwork and plans to get more.

Tattoos fall into a similar category to eyeglasses, which have become a fashion accessory over the past 25 years. Tattoos are derived from personal style and inspiration; however, are worn on the body forever, unlike clothing used for self-expression.

Forever, is something that some tattooed wonders aren’t concerned with. If they outgrow something they have pictured on themselves, it can be morphed into something else. As people grow and change, their tattoos can too. If they find an artist they like, they develop a relationship with them. As the relationship blooms over time, sort of like the trust of a family doctor, tattoo enthusiasts stick with their artists until their tat(s) are complete. Some stick with the same artist for their entire life, and use them for all of their tattooing needs while recommending them to friends and colleagues as they would recommend their dentist or housekeeper.

It can take much deliberation for a first timer, but once they go through the trouble of one, the second, third and fourth seem easier. As most tattooed people say, ‘once you get one, you just can’t stop.’

Become a tattooed wonder in Brooklyn:

Flyrite Tattoo – 492 Metropolitan Ave. (between Meeker Avenue & Rodney Street)

Crazy Monkey Tattoo – 882 Broadway (between Lewis Avenue & Belvedere Street)

Twelve 28 Tattoo – 28 Marcy Avenue 2nd Fl (between Metropolitan Avenue & Hope Street)

Three Kings Tattoo – 572 Manhattan Avenue

For more fashion education, style information and tattoo inspiration, please visit www.thedressrecycler.com. Your bargain fashion superhero!

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