How Many Tattoos Does Harry Styles Have? (And What They Really Mean)
If you’ve ever found yourself zooming in on Harry Styles’ shirtless photos (don’t worry, we’ve all done it), you’ve probably asked the same burning question: How many tattoos does this guy even have?
Harry Styles isn’t just a pop sensation with a voice like velvet and a wardrobe that could rival any runway model. Nope—he’s also the proud canvas for a ton of meaningful (and sometimes mysterious) tattoos. And let’s be honest—Harry Styles’ tattoos are basically a language of their own at this point.
I’ve been a fan since the One Direction days (shoutout to the Up All Night era!), and following Harry’s ink journey has been like watching a story unfold on skin. Whether you’re here for tattoo inspo, fan trivia, or just to appreciate the artistry, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive deep into the inked-up universe of Harry Styles—from his first tattoo to that iconic mermaid on his arm, and everything in between.
Table of Contents
How Many Tattoos Does Harry Styles Have Right Now?
Alright, let’s get straight to it:
Harry Styles has over 50 tattoos (yep, you read that right). Some sources say it’s closer to 60, depending on how you count overlapping or covered pieces.
Why the confusion?
- He’s covered some old tattoos with new ones.
- Some are tiny and barely visible unless you squint.
- He occasionally jokes about them in interviews, which keeps fans guessing.
But trust me, we’ve done the ink-sleuthing so you don’t have to.
Harry Styles’ First Tattoo: Where It All Began
Let’s take it back to 2012.
Harry’s first tattoo was a small star on the inside of his left arm, right around his bicep. Cute, simple, and totally unassuming, especially compared to what came next.
Why a star?
It’s rumored he got it to match bandmate Louis Tomlinson, though neither of them confirmed it officially.
From that one tiny star, the ink floodgates opened.
Harry Styles Tattoos Arm Collection: A Full Gallery of Meaning
Harry’s arms are basically tattoo central. If you’re into sleeve inspo, Harry Styles’ tattoos on his arms are a goldmine.
Left Arm: Chaos in Ink
Here are some standout designs on Harry’s left arm:
- Swallow Birds (front shoulders): Classic sailor symbols for travel and homecoming.
- Handshake Tattoo: Symbolizes friendship and loyalty—super popular among traditional tattoo fans.
- The “17 Black”: A gambling reference—James Bond fans might recognize it.
- Cross with “Late Late”: A nod to The Late Late Show and probably James Corden.
- Hebrew Tattoo: His sister Gemma’s name is written in Hebrew.
Harry Styles’ Hebrew tattoo is one of his most personal pieces—simple, sleek, and filled with family love.
Right Arm: Where the Whimsy Lives
Don’t sleep on Harry’s right arm, though—there’s plenty happening there too.
- Eagle on his inner forearm: Bold, fierce, and rumored to represent freedom.
- Butterfly (or moth?) on his stomach: While it’s technically part of his torso, it connects to the full arm aesthetic.
- An anatomical heart: Yes, like the kind you’d see in a medical textbook.
- A skeleton in a suit: Because… why not?
His anatomical heart isn’t about romance—it’s more of a “wear your heart on your sleeve” moment. Literally.
Harry Styles Hand Tattoo: Subtle but Iconic
While he doesn’t have a ton of tattoos on his hands, the ones he does have are loaded with style.
Hand and Fingers:
- “A” on his left-hand ring finger: Believed to represent his mom, Anne.
- Cross and anchor symbols: Classic sailor-style imagery that ties in with other pieces.
- Tiny letters and dots: Small, delicate symbols that keep fans guessing.
The minimalist Harry Styles hand tattoo game is strong. Perfect for people looking for low-key ink inspiration.
Harry Styles Anchor Tattoo: Traditional Meets Trendy
Ah, the anchor tattoo. A true staple in Harry’s ink journey.
- Location: Left wrist
- Meaning: Traditionally, anchors represent stability and grounding. With Harry constantly traveling and evolving, this tat might serve as a reminder to stay grounded.
Fun Fact: The anchor is one of Harry’s most visible and classically styled tattoos. If you’re into Harry Styles tattoo ideas, this one’s a crowd favorite.
Harry Styles Guitar Tattoo: Music on His Skin
Given that he’s a musical genius, you knew there had to be some music-themed ink.
Guitar Tattoo Details
- Location: On his shoulder
- Design: A sketch-style guitar that looks hand-drawn
- Significance: Music isn’t just Harry’s career—it’s his soul. The guitar is symbolic of where it all began.
If you’re someone who wants a music-themed tattoo, this one is a vibe.
The Famous Harry Styles Mermaid Tattoo
This one deserves its own spotlight.
Mermaid Tattoo Breakdown
- Location: On his left forearm
- Size: Pretty large and detailed
- Design: A traditional pin-up style mermaid with long flowing hair and a tail
Why a mermaid? Harry hasn’t said exactly, but some fans think it ties into themes of duality—land vs. sea, reality vs. fantasy.
Either way, the Harry Styles mermaid tattoo is an absolute fan favorite and totally one-of-a-kind.
Matching Tattoos with the Boys: One Direction Era Nostalgia
Let’s not forget—some of Harry’s tattoos came from his One Direction days.
Notable Matching Tats
- “Things I Can” and “Things I Can’t”: He has “Things I can” tattooed on one forearm. Louis Tomlinson reportedly has the other half.
- Tiny screws on his ankles: Symbolic matching tattoos with Zayn Malik.
Even if the band’s on hiatus, the ink lives on forever.
Tattoo Style: Traditional Meets Minimalist
Harry’s tattoo style is super unique—it’s like he has a vintage tattoo flashbook etched across his body.
Common Themes
- Sailor-style symbols: Swallows, anchors, ropes
- Handwritten text: Short words and phrases in various fonts
- Sketchbook vibe: Many look hand-drawn or doodle-like
If you’re looking for Harry Styles tattoo ideas, think bold outlines, personal meanings, and an effortlessly cool aesthetic.
Removed or Covered Tattoos: Yes, That’s a Thing
Like most tattoo lovers, Harry’s gone through a little ink evolution.
Tattoos He’s Covered or Removed
- “I can’t change” (on his wrist): Believed to be covered by a newer design.
- A few small doodles and initials have faded or been hidden by newer pieces.
Tattoos, like people, change over time. It’s part of the journey.
The Deeper Meaning Behind Harry’s Ink Obsession
So, what’s the deal with all these tattoos?
Harry’s said in interviews that he gets tattoos because they “remind him of specific moments in time.” They’re like living souvenirs from his past—tour memories, inside jokes, tributes to people he loves.
Tattoos = Time Capsules
And honestly? That’s what makes his collection so fascinating. It’s not just random art—it’s a storybook written in ink.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Tattoos
So, to wrap it all up, Harry Styles has over 50 tattoos, ranging from bold and symbolic to tiny and mysterious. From the anchor on his wrist to the mermaid on his forearm, every single one adds a chapter to the book of Harry.
If you’re looking for tattoo inspiration or just want to decode the man behind the ink, Harry’s collection is the ultimate mood board.
And hey, whether you’re planning your next tattoo or just admiring from afar, remember: Tattoos are personal. They don’t have to make sense to anyone else but you.
Now tell me—which Harry Styles tattoo would you get?

I started Tattoolead to create a place where you could easily find awesome and unique ideas for your next tattoo. I promise to offer tattoo art that shows who you are and what you believe in. I’ve carefully chosen these tattoo ideas to help you find one you’ll love.