You've probably noticed tattoos of young women depicting skulls more and more often on social networks in recent years. They are also known as the Sugar Scull or La Catrina tattoo and although they represent death, they are becoming increasingly popular among both men and women. The beautiful and unique tattoos are inspired by the Mexican “Day of the Dead”, also known as “Dia de los Muertos”. La Catrina has become a true symbol of the holiday and is popular not only as a tattoo motif, but also as a costume for Halloween. From colorful flowers todetailed mandalas– the possibilities for style combinations really seem endless. Whether you just want to know the history and La Catrina tattoo meaning, or you're looking for ideas for your next tattoo, you've come to the right place! Read on and be inspired by our picture gallery!
Like many other traditions before it, culture has remained crucial to the world of art and so it's no wonder that Day of the Dead has also taken over the tattoo world. The Mexican holiday is now recognized all over the world and the representation of traditional makeup for women has become one of the most popular styles in tattooing. La Catrina, also known as “Lady of the Dead”, is very recognizable and is one of the most elaborate and popular tattoo designs. Roses, intricate details, skulls and dark circles around the eyes – all of this cannot be missing from a La Catrina tattoo.
What is the Day of the Dead and origin of the La Catrina tattoo
The Day of the Dead (known as “Dia de los Muertos” in Spanish) is an important holiday in Mexican culture. Celebrated as a folk festival from October 31st to November 2nd, it is a veritable explosion of color, joy and ritual. But in Mexico the dead are treated very differently than here and, contrary to our understanding, death is celebrated colorfully. After all, no one wants to be remembered in a sad way and it is much better to remember our loved ones with joy. The purpose of the Day of the Dead is, above all, to show love and respect for friends and family members who have passed away. According to popular belief, their souls return to their families on this day to visit them and celebrate their reunion together. It is a symbol of love for family and appreciation of the time we have been given on earth.
La Catrina means something like “the wealthy one” or “the rich one”, which is not meant as a compliment but rather as a derogatory term. The enigmatic figure has a fascinating historical origin, born as a caricature of social protest and becoming a true symbol of the “Day of the Dead”. The original la Catrina was actually a skinny skeleton with expensive clothes and a large hat and was intended to represent a parody of the upper social class. She is a creation of Mexican cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posade. But it has become a true symbol of death after the famous Mexican painter Diego Rivera - Frida Kahlo's husband - included and reinterpreted today's version in one of his paintings.
La Catrina tattoo meaning and typical features
La Catrina tattoos have been among the most popular for yearsTattoo Trendsat all. The motif is often combined with other motifs and designs to create a unique and breathtaking piece of art. But for this you definitely need to know the characteristic features of the symbol, which must definitely be included in the tattoo. The dark rims of the eyes and the dark tip of the nose are strongly emphasized and contribute to the classic skull look. Instead of teeth, the La Catrina tattoo design uses fine lines to indicate teeth above the mouth.
Other typical features are the symmetrical shapes and the dark lines. La Catrina should also always be portrayed as pretty, young and with plenty of make-up. Proper proportions, appropriate colors, good line work and shading result in a stunning tattoo that the owner can be proud of.
What is the La Catrina meaning tattoo?
The enigmatic and sensual figure of Catrina is the perfect opportunity to encourage the tattoo artist's creativity by combining different forms of body art with all possible facets and variations to create a unique tattoo design. The meanings behind the tattoo trend are very different and profound. Some believe that “the Lady of the Dead” protects the wearer or can make them immortal. And here again the La Catrina tattoo meaning at a glance:
- Memory of a loved one –Since la Catrina is one of the most important and largest symbols of the “Day of the Dead”, many people choose this tattoo motif to remember and honor their deceased loved ones.
- Femininity and strength –Like any other tattoo design that depicts a powerful woman, the La Catrina tattoo is also considered a symbol of femininity and strength. It can be interpreted as a metaphor that appearances can be deceiving and women should not be judged solely by their looks.
- Don't be afraid of death -La Catrina represents the Mexican way of dealing with death. Therefore, many people choose this motif to show that they are not afraid of death and are ready to face life's greatest challenges.
La Catrina tattoo designs have a very special charm
Mexican tattoos la Catrina are one of those tattoos that stand out from the crowd and at the same time contain a lot of culture, sensuality and spirituality. Whether in colors or in black and white - the designs can be engraved in so many different styles that there are no limits to your imagination. While it is possible to create a minimalist tattoo, it is better to opt for a slightly larger part of the body. The tattoos are incredibly detailed and this is the only way to really show off your tattoos. Shoulders, arms, legs or the la Catrina tattoo for the thigh are particularly popular.
As already mentioned, it's the little details that make a real la Catrina tattoo. If you are considering a colored design, we have summarized the most popular colors used and their meaning below.
- Lilais considered the color of mourning, sorrow and suffering in Mexican culture.
- Gelbstands for unity and togetherness.
- Whitesymbolizes purity, hope and the spirit of the deceased
- Marigoldsare also common for La Catrina tattoo designs and represent the path to the afterlife. The dark circles under the eyes are often engraved in the shape of marigolds.
La Catrina Tattoo Templates
Over the years, the La Catrina tattoo has changed a lot and is constantly being redesigned. Although the origin is very colorful and the Day of the Dead is associated with celebrations and full of colors, the black and white version of the tattoo is preferred. But you can also add a touch of color to the tattooa beautiful rosesting. The combination is very popular and is considered a symbol of eternal love and being stronger than death.
More La Catrina tattoos designs and inspirations
The forearm is one of the most popular and most suitable parts of the body for La Catrina tattoos
Colorful flowers and roses are the ideal complement to Mexican tattoos la Catrina
Minimalist designs that incorporate the key features look just as gorgeous
Although the Day of the Dead is a colorful celebration, black and white tattoos are becoming increasingly popular
Combine different styles and unleash your creativity to create a unique and beautiful work of art
The tattoo becomes even more personal if you convert a photo of the loved one into a La Catrina
When it comes to designs, colors and size of the tattoo, there is an incredible amount of room for creativity
Without a doubt, all Mexican tattoos la Catrina are enchanting works of art that are worth flaunting
Although the tattoos are rather dark, they have a very special charm
The woman made up as a skull must always be clearly defined and highlighted
La Catrina tattoos can be presented in all possible tattoo styles
Tattoo designs with roses and skulls, which are another symbol of the “Day of the Dead”, are particularly popular
The La Catrina tattoo is probably one of the most beautiful ways to immortalize the love for a deceased person on our skin forever
