One scroll through the tattoo section of Pinterest, and it's easy to pick out some of the most popular designs. Between classics like hearts [1] and roman numerals [2] to contemporary favourites like infinity signs and arrows, there are some tattoos that have been tattooed at virtually every shop on Earth. Or, at least, that's how it seems. But just because they're popular doesn't mean they should automatically be off-limits. After all, these designs are commonly requested for a reason. They can be expressive, symbolic, and meaningful — especially when done in a unique, fashion-forward way that puts a modern spin on a classic design. In the words of tattooist Keith "Bang Bang" McCurdy [3], who's worked with everyone from Rihanna [4] to Hailey Baldwin [5]: "As tattoos become more acceptable, people will be less apprehensive to tattoo more of their body [6]."

To prove our point, we've put together the 80 staple tattoo designs that prove "popular" doesn't need to mean "cliche."

— Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes