I have a few (nine actually) tattoos that are strategically placed where I can show them off at my discretion. I like having the option to bare my art or not depending on the time, place and event. I knew when I got my first tattoo that I was in corporate America and with certain companies you have dress codes to adhere to and there’s probably a line that reads “all body art should be covered” in fine print. I always took that into consideration when getting a tattoo. My thought process went something like this… “Where can I put this tattoo on my body that I can keep covered in a professional setting?” I’ve actually done well because most people don’t know I have tattoos until I actually show them or I’m wearing an alter top, shorts and flip flops. My latest tattoo “wish I can have a do over moment” was when I was in a fashion show last month and I modeled a dress that was strapless but, failed to cover up the body art on my upper back. I didn’t even realize it until I was reviewing pictures that were taken during the fashion event.

I know that there are models on runways everyday that show their tattoos off but, I would have preferred to cover mine up. I was just helping a friend and by no means consider myself a “real” runway model. It’s just like a bride on her wedding day, (and I’m NOT speaking for all brides) if there is a tattoo that would be visible while in the wedding gown, she might want to cover it up for her special day. If she doesn’t want the tattoo covered for the entire day then at least the ceremony if not the reception. Again… it all comes down to preference. I love my tattoos and I only get tattoos that make sense to me and have a sentimental value. Recently my sister went on a job interview and she had to cover up her feet with her foundation before her meeting. It went well and she got the job, she has company wardrobe guidelines to follow and all tattoos must be covered. I work in a more relaxed setting and I can bare my art without any repercussions from the powers that be.

With all this being said… AND I’ll remember this the next time I’m in a situation where all eyes are on me and I’m on a runway or walking down the wedding aisle again! If you have tattoos that are visible and you want to cover them up be sure to clean and moisturize your skin before using your foundation to evenly cover up your tattoo until you no longer see it. Once it’s covered you can leave it as is or use a spray to set the foundation making it smudge resistant which can also save messing up your clothing and will be long lasting. Below is some of my body art and I’ll even share my not so proud moment with you. How do you feel about tattoos? Do you have any? If so where and do you ever cover them up depending on the situation you’re in? Do you have a favorite tattoo spray or foundation that you recommend? I’d like to know…