Skip to content

Beauty · Style · Ink & Art · Then & Now

Ink & Art

15 Neck Tattoo Ideas for Men Worth Considering

Six 15 neck tattoo ideas for men worth considering shown in an editorial collage

Neck tattoos are one of the most striking forms of self-expression and have become a canvas for brilliant works of art that are capturing the attention of men, worldwide. As a way to express one’s personality, neck tattoos can be understated or extremely elaborate. The following list of 17 neck tattoos for men, incorporates an assortment of designs from elaborate geometric shapes to symbols of great power and realistic portraits. Each design showcases the creativity that comes with neck tattoos and the possibility to make a unique statement.

Geometric Precision

The modern look of timeless geometric shapes is pleasing to the eye and will be certainly striking to others. The precision and symmetry always make for a great design.

Save for later

Want to come back to this story? Save it with your email so it is easy to find again.

Healed geometric precision tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural slightly elevated close view — study 1
Healed geometric precision tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural waist-height candid close-up — study 2

Celestial Symbols

Celestial tattoos will include stars, planets and moons, which are great designs for an ethereal look. The elements that will be included in the tattoo design can represent one’s connection to the universe.

Healed celestial symbols tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center like — study 1
Healed celestial symbols tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the ink — study 2
Healed celestial symbols tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural slightly elevated close view — study 3

Abstract Watercolors

A tattoo that has a watercolor effect is perfect for someone who appreciates abstract art or fun fluid designs. This is also a great way to add color to your neck since most tattoos are done in black and white.

Healed abstract watercolors tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center — study 1
Healed abstract watercolors tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the — study 2

Tribal Heritage

Incorporating bold tribal patterns in your tattoo design can represent a strong cultural heritage and personal power. This design is a great enhancement to the neckline.

Healed tribal heritage tattoo on a adult man's side ribs, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center like a — study 1
Healed tribal heritage tattoo on a adult man's side ribs, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the ink — study 2

Vintage Compass and Map

For free spirits who enjoy traveling and discovering new places, combining an antique compass and map design creates a sense of adventure. The vintage designs will encourage exploration and discovery.

Healed vintage compass and map tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural waist-height candid close-up — study 1
Healed vintage compass and map tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural relaxed documentary crop — study 2

Mythical Dragon

Neck tattoos of dragons are captivating for a variety of reasons. Beyond their mythological allure and striking forms, dragons are often seen as majestic, powerful, wise and courageous; all of which makes a dragon tattoo a fitting design choice for the neck.

Healed mythical dragon tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural slightly elevated close view — study 1

Floral Whimsy

The neck’s natural shape and curves really benefit from the elegance of floral neck tattoos. These types of tattoos also symbolize growth and renewal and when combined with a floral tattoo, an exciting design is possible.

Healed floral whimsy tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center like a — study 1
Healed floral whimsy tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the ink — study 2

Minimalist Line Art

A great tattoo design option for someone with a neck tattoo is minimalism. Simple tattoos and designs create a bold statement while also remaining subtle.

Healed minimalist line art tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural casual close three-quarter view — study 1
Healed minimalist line art tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center — study 2

Intricate Mandala

The design aesthetics of mandala tattoos allow for both a meditative state while observing the design, and also for visual stimulation. A mandala tattoo can be either comfortable and casual, or ornate and involved.

Healed intricate mandala tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center like — study 1
Healed intricate mandala tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the ink — study 2
Healed intricate mandala tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural slightly elevated close view — study 3

Retro Nautical Theme

Classic and ageless designs are represented in a neck tattoo design of the ocean and all of its thrilling elements, such as wave, ship and anchor elements. Also, a design such as this will exude a timeless quality whether the design is meant to look contemporary or old.

Healed retro nautical theme tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural waist-height candid close-up — study 1
Healed retro nautical theme tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural relaxed documentary crop — study 2

Cultural Calligraphy

For a very personal and customized design, a calligraphy neck tattoo using a favorite quote or saying can look amazing and certainly serve as a meaningful neck tattoo.

Healed cultural calligraphy tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural waist-height candid close-up — study 1
Healed cultural calligraphy tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural relaxed documentary crop — study 2

Ancient Mythology

Also making for a great neck design option, mythology includes gods and other legendary characters.

Healed ancient mythology tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural casual close three-quarter view — study 1
Healed ancient mythology tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center like — study 2

Futuristic Tech Design

From the digital world and modern times, technology themed tattoos are another great contemporary option for a neck design.

Healed futuristic tech design tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural straight-on close view, a touch off-center — study 1
Healed futuristic tech design tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how — study 2

Sacred Geometry

For a deep meaning, great contradiction and a visually appealing design, a neck tattoo of sacred geometry will work well.

Healed sacred geometry tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural gentle side angle that clearly shows how the ink — study 1
Healed sacred geometry tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural slightly elevated close view — study 2

Fantasy Elements

Magical creatures like unicorns, and phoenixes are perfect for a neck design. Great fantasy tattoo design ideas can allow for a nontraditional design and not be seen as out of place.

Healed fantasy elements tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural waist-height candid close-up — study 1
Healed fantasy elements tattoo on a adult man's side neck, photographed in a natural relaxed documentary crop — study 2