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AIBU?

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Too old and fat for new tattoos?

89 replies

Tattoothoughts · 16/06/2024 19:21

I’ve always loved art and tattoos and wanted several, but stopped when younger out of respect for my parents who absolutely hated them and were quite vocal about it. Then, in my 20s, I got two small tattoos in discrete locations and my parents were ok about it, but not exactly fans, and I got the standard “well, if you like them…” passive aggressive comments. But now, my much younger sister, who has a very “I don’t give a fuck” attitude, is covered in them, including one on her neck!! My parents haven’t batted an eyelid. So, I feel like I also want to say “fuck it” and get the art I’ve always desired. But, I’m 37, plus-sized (18-20), with two kids and a very average lifestyle (I could be considered boring, but I’m happy). So WIBU and weird to get some more tats? I’d love a half sleeve or maybe something on a thigh. I dress on the slightly alternative, gothy side, so my tattoos would be in a similar vein. Is this an early midlife crisis?!

OP posts:
TheWoofers · 16/06/2024 19:43

I hate tattoos, but I think it’s really sad that you didn’t do what you wanted because of your parents views on them.

Although my kids know I’m not a fan, I’d feel like if failed as a parent if they didn’t do things they wanted because of my views. As parents, we have to accept that our adult children can make their own choices and that we may have different opinions. All I ask of my kids now they’re older is that they think things through, because I love them and don’t want them to have regrets because they rushed into something.

You’re 37, you’ve wanted them for a long time, so do it!

ghostyslovesheets · 16/06/2024 19:40

No I had my first at 50 - and no not a mid life crisis - I took my DD2 to have her first as an 18th Birthday present and loved the woman doing it - 60+ hippy with fab designs - I had always wanted one and so I bit the bullet - I now have 4 including a huge back piece so DO IT!

Mrsdht · 16/06/2024 19:37

People will judge if you have them. Others might judge if you don't. Obviously it's very permanent so think about it a lot.

I have a tattoo all down one side of my body. It was finished in my 40s. I don't regret a single thing about it and not many people know i even have it tbh. Every single part of it has a meaning to someone or something in my life. It goes from wrist up arm and all down to my knee. 3 years ago my mum died. 2 years ago the year I turned 50 I decided to do something special every month. I adopted a dog, had a fancy dress party, went on a cruise, got engaged, went to a butlins weekend, and got a full back tattoo in her honour. Lifes too short. Eat the cake. Buy the shoes. Wear the bikini. Get the tattoo

AreYouBrandNew · 16/06/2024 19:33

Never too old or too fat.

and also good to lean into any midlife crisis (in a way that hurts no one)

theeyeofdoe · 16/06/2024 19:32

They look awful on everyone old, young, fat, thin at the time of getting them and look even worse 20 years later.
It’s your body though, if you want to get a horrible neck tattoo get one.

justanotherlaura · 16/06/2024 19:31

My grandad got his first tattoo at 83, you're never too old for tattoos :)

shellyleppard · 16/06/2024 19:31

Op your body your choice!!! 💐💓

BusyCaz · 16/06/2024 19:29

Kitkatcatflap · 16/06/2024 19:27

Midlife crisis - not a fan

How is it a midlife crisis if she has always loved and wanted more??

OP - go for it, your never too old/big x

Kitkatcatflap · 16/06/2024 19:27

Midlife crisis - not a fan

BobbyBiscuits · 16/06/2024 19:26

Of course you should. As long as you can afford it, and do plenty of research and thought about the design and artist you want to use.

pointythings · 16/06/2024 19:26

Not at all, do what you want! I'm 56 and a tattoo virgin and it's going to happen this summer.

BigSaddo · 16/06/2024 19:24

And so long as you like them that’s all that matters

BigSaddo · 16/06/2024 19:24

I’m a tattooist. Best trust there’s been someone older and bigger in my chair, it does not matter at all!

Samcro · 16/06/2024 19:22

Your never too old to get more

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