19 Matching Tattoo Ideas That Aren’t Cheesy

When done right, matching tattoos can be a wonderful way to show your love for someone. Let's explore some ideas that range from classic to unique and help you find the perfect fit for you and the special person in your life.

1) Mirrored crescent moons on opposite wrists

The mirrored crescents can be a great option because each person's can exist by itself. But when you are together with your person, a beautiful message is born!

2) Minimalist coordinates of where you first met

The coordinates tattoo can designate where you first met, your wedding location, or any other place that is special to both of you. Commemorate something special without dates, which can end up looking more like a memorial than something positive.

3) Interlocking mountain outlines with one shared peak

This tattoo would be a great way to celebrate a hiking accomplishment. Walk the Pacific Crest Trail and mark the occasion!

4) Tiny sun and moon in fine-line blackwork

This small sun and moon design can be adjusted to be exactly the same or for each to have its own distinct characteristics. Are you a morning person or a night person? I would personally get the moon and have my other half get the sun.

You do not want to be around me when I have to get up early!

5) Two halves of a botanical stem

Personally, though this design is beautiful, it doesn't scream "matching" tattoo. It just looks like two people got gardening or herb tattoos separately. If you still like the design, you could consider a small date or initials somewhere on each person's tattoo to make it more of a pair.

6) Matching birth-flower outlines in different placements

This is another one that, although fun, isn't an obvious "matching tattoo" design. Maybe that's a good thing. It does allow each tattoo-wearer to vary it to their liking but still retain the same shape.

Each person could have their flower a different color, or they could put a special date in one of the leaves.

7) Roman numerals for a meaningful shared date

I like to tell people my spirit is from Rome. I am ethnically Norwegian, English, and Spanish, but Rome is my favorite city in the world. This Roman numeral design would be a great wedding gift for each other.

8) Subtle wave lines based on the same ocean

This subtle wave tattoo could represent not only your relationship but also shared values. The three individual waves could stand for the three pillars of your partnership. Add waves for more pillars if you choose.

9) Negative-space arrow pairs pointing toward each other

This design is perfect for someone who may not have a lot of experience with tattoos. It's simple enough that it shouldn't take too long, but the "matching" effect is definitely there.

10) Small constellations from your zodiac signs

A constellation pairing is a fun idea, but be careful and make sure you trust the artist. If the dots are too small, it can look like a rash from far away.

11) Abstract line-art faces facing inward

These minimalist portraits are unique and intimate. The fact that it's a couple's tattoo is a secret until you're standing next to your partner, which makes it all the more special.

12) Matching lock and key silhouettes in minimalist style

The matching key and lock idea is fun, but consider going for a sketch that has a more realistic quality. This one has a bit of a cartoon feel to it. Or, if you're okay with that, consider adding color to make it pop.

13) One continuous line split between two forearms

This design is a strong commitment. Without the other person, it's just a line. Together, the connection is evident, so much so that the tattoo only works if your arms are in the exact right position- something to consider before deciding.

14) Tiny matching initials hidden inside geometric shapes

Loving this one! You can only tell the initials are letters when you examine them closely. It feels like a shared secret between two people, something that can be at the heart of the matching tattoo concept itself.

15) Complementary sunrise and sunset symbols

This pairing is a great choice if you are in an "opposites attract relationship." She likes hiking; you like hotels; she likes mountains; you like the beach… but somehow you make it work. Use this design to celebrate how people can be completely different but bring out the best in each other.

16) Two halves of a vintage matchbook illustration

This design is a strong choice, a tattoo that only makes sense when you're standing beside your other half. The vintage design can convey timeless style, and the lion can symbolize the strength of your relationship.

17) Minimalist compass arrows pointing in opposite directions

When I am having a hard time making a decision, I often ask myself, "What's my true North?" In other words, what's my top priority over all others? This is a perfect one if you are lucky enough to have your true North in another person.

18) Shared latitude and longitude in fine-line script

Though the latitude and longitude idea can be great in theory, be cautious that it doesn't just look like a big "X" from far away. If that doesn't deter you, the location could be not just somewhere special that you've been, but a place you plan on going together someday… a reminder of a shared goal.

19) Matching paper-plane outlines with different flight paths

This is the perfect design for a long-distance friendship, especially one where distance has always been a factor. The ability to stay connected when you've never been on the same path is something to celebrate.