35+ Small Behind the Ear Tattoos for Women That Are Stylish

Small tattoos often have the biggest meaning, and placing them behind the ear makes them even more special. For women, this discreet space offers a combination of elegance and mystery, ideal for designs that convey personal symbolism. Small tattoos behind the ear can be simple, subtle and effortlessly stylish.

From tiny hearts and stars to initials, flowers or minimalist symbols, the options are endless. In this post, we’ll look at small behind-the-ear tattoo ideas for women, share inspiring designs, and help you find a piece that’s both personal and beautiful.

Minimal sun behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo depicts a clean, minimalistic sun made up of a simple circle and neat radiating lines.

The simple design feels vibrant and inspiring while remaining sophisticated and modern. Symbolizing positivity, energy and new beginnings, it serves as a daily reminder of optimism.

Small placement behind the ear retains personal meaning and is ideal for those who value inner warmth and a reassuring look. Its balanced style pairs well with other delicate tattoos or looks great on its own.

Tattoo “Three butterflies” behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features three graceful butterfly outlines arranged in a gentle upward pattern.

Thin black lines add lightness and elegance to the design, ideally symbolizing transformation, freedom and new beginnings. Their subtle placement follows the natural curve of the ear, creating graceful movement and balance.

This airy piece pairs perfectly with a variety of hairstyles and accessories while remaining discreet. Chosen for personal symbolism or pure beauty, the butterfly trio offers a timeless, nature-inspired design with a soft, uplifting charm.

Flying birds tattoo behind ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo depicts a graceful flock of small birds in flight, forming a gentle upward curve.

Delicate black silhouettes convey freedom, hope and the pursuit of a dream. Their natural movement follows the line of the ear, creating a subtle yet dynamic visual effect.

Its clean minimalism makes it versatile, complementing both casual and formal styles. This airy design is a meaningful reminder of personal growth and open horizons, combining delicate craftsmanship with a timeless symbol of independence.

Small orange daisy tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo showcases a vibrant orange daisy with thin green stems and delicate petal detail.

The warm, vibrant color symbolizes cheerfulness, positivity and zest for life, making it a touching design. Its petite placement allows for easy concealment or display with a simple ponytail or bun.

This tattoo is ideal for those who are looking for a natural and lively look. This tattoo combines elegance and playfulness. Detailed craftsmanship ensures timeless beauty, while sunny tones enhance everyday looks and highlight a vibrant personality.

Star sparkle tattoo behind the ear

Tiny starburst tattoos behind the ear create a delicate celestial vibe, perfect for everyday wear.

The minimalist black ink design highlights small sparkling stars arranged in a neat vertical line. Their subtle placement adds elegance and makes it easy to hide a tattoo in a professional setting.

This simple yet meaningful style can symbolize hope, guidance or personal light. Ideal for first tattoos, quick to apply and heal smoothly. Pairing it with a small moon or constellation can add extra depth and personal symbolism.

Minimal lily tattoo behind ear

The delicate lily tattoo is gracefully positioned behind the ear, adding calm charm with its elegant, fine lines.

This minimalist floral design symbolizes purity, renewal and serene beauty without being too bold. Its placement makes it easy to hide it or show it off with a casual hairstyle. Simple outlines done in black ink complement an everyday look, making it versatile and timeless.

This graceful tattoo is perfect for nature lovers or those looking for a subtle statement. It stays meaningful while remaining lightweight and stylish for years to come.

“Small Heartbeat” Tattoo Behind the Ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a small, bold heartbeat line that forms a subtle heart shape in its flow.

The pure black ink stands out beautifully, symbolizing love, vitality and the rhythm of life. Its discreet placement keeps the design intimate, allowing the personal meaning to shine through.

This tattoo is perfect to represent a significant relationship or moment. It combines feelings and simplicity. The minimalist size also makes it easy to care for and easily pairs with everyday hairstyles and accessories for an effortlessly stylish look.

Cherry branch tattoo behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a beautifully detailed cherry blossom branch with soft pink petals and dark textured bark.

The gentle curve of the branch perfectly follows the ear, creating natural movement and elegance. Cherry blossoms symbolize renewal, beauty and the fleeting nature of life, imparting deep personal meaning.

Subtle watercolor shading brings each petal to life, while compact placement keeps the design graceful and understated. This piece captures the charm of spring and the quiet power of natural cycles.

Small black rose tattoo behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a single delicate black rose with fine detailing and subtle strokes.

Its slender stem and small leaves create a graceful flow that complements the natural shape of the cob. The black ink adds depth and elegance, while the rose itself symbolizes love, mystery and inner strength.

Its small size makes it easy to hide or display, perfect for those looking for a meaningful yet minimalist design. This tattoo perfectly combines timeless floral symbolism with a modern, understated style.

Delicate green leaf tattoo behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo depicts a thin green branch with neatly arranged leaves, exuding calmness and natural charm.

Fresh color and clean lines create a lively yet sophisticated look that matches the smooth curve of the ear. Vibrant green symbolizes renewal, growth and harmony with nature.

Small and sophisticated, it’s easy to show off with an updo or hidden for a personal touch. This design is great for those who want a fresh, organic accent that highlights their love of natural beauty.

Delicate blue wildflower tattoo behind the ear

This delicate design features tiny blue wildflowers arranged along a thin black stem and placed neatly behind the ear.

Soft pastel petals create a gentle, uplifting look that feels natural and serene. Thin, precise lines bring the delicate stem and small flowers to life without cluttering the space.

This tattoo is perfect for those who love subtle floral details. It adds a quiet note of beauty and freshness. It’s a charming way to celebrate growth, hope, and a strong connection to nature.

Realistic ladybug tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a realistic red ladybug with tiny black spots and detailed legs.

The vibrant color and precise shading create a striking three-dimensional effect, making the insect appear ready to move. Ladybugs are often associated with good luck, happiness and protection, giving this design a joyful meaning.

The small size makes it discreet yet attractive and ideal for nature lovers or those looking for a playful touch. This charming piece enhances everyday style and carries a cheerful symbolic message of positivity.

Purple wildflower tattoo behind ear

This delicate behind-the-ear tattoo features a vibrant purple wildflower surrounded by soft petals and fine leaf detailing.

The natural design symbolizes grace, creativity and free spirit while adding subtle vibrant colors. Its compact placement makes it easy to hide and add a pop of color when styling your hair.

Ideal for flower lovers, it combines detailed craftsmanship and timeless elegance. This charming tattoo captures the beauty of wild flowers, making it a great choice for those who want a colorful design inspired by nature.

Tattoo of two mini butterflies behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features two small, finely shaded butterflies in gentle flight. Simple outlines in black ink make the design light and elegant, symbolizing transformation, freedom and renewal.

Carefully positioned along the curve of the ear, these butterflies look sleek and sophisticated and are perfect for everyday wear. The minimalist approach makes it versatile and easy to combine with other subtle tattoos.

Perfect for those who love nature and personal symbolism, this charming design will add a timeless and uplifting touch to any style.

Simple heart tattoo behind ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a clean black heart outline, perfectly positioned for a subtle yet meaningful touch.

The minimalistic design symbolizes love, affection and emotional strength without additional details. Its graceful shape makes it easy to show off the tail or hide it discreetly if desired.

This heart is perfect for first tattoos, goes with any style and is timeless. Its elegant simplicity allows it to stand alone beautifully or be easily combined with other small sentimental tattoos for added self-expression.

Minimalistic rose stem tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo showcases two delicate rose buds on slender stems drawn in thin black lines.

Minimalist style symbolizes love, grace and new beginnings without overwhelming details. Ideally positioned, they follow the natural curve of the ear, adding elegance and subtle charm.

This elegant design is suitable for anyone looking for a meaningful floral tattoo that will remain discreet and timeless. Whether worn alone or paired with other small botanical pieces, it creates a soft, romantic touch that complements everyday fashion and self-expression.

Geometric dotwork tattoo behind the ear

This striking behind-the-ear tattoo features small geometric accents accentuated by dotted shading for a dynamic look.

Vibrant black patterns radiate outwards, creating a balanced combination of structure and softness. Ideal for those interested in contemporary abstract art, it symbolizes harmony and creative energy. Its compact placement makes it easy to hide or show off, pairing seamlessly with piercings and hairstyles.

This versatile design adds artistic flair and can be expanded later into a larger geometric or mandala style piece if desired.

Women’s Venus tattoo behind the ear

This tattoo behind the ear is a classic symbol of Venus, representing femininity, strength and self-love.

The small black outline makes it elegant and discreet while carrying a powerful message. Ideally positioned, it complements your ear piercings and hairstyle, making it easy to reveal or hide.

Ideal for celebrating individuality, equality or personal power, this design remains timeless and stylish. Its simple yet meaningful look makes it versatile, pairing well with other minimalist tattoos or standing alone as a bold statement of confidence and independence.

Playful rubber duck tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a cute orange rubber duck outlined in black, creating a fun and playful vibe.

Its small size and bright color give it instant charm, yet can be easily hidden if desired. Ideal for those who love a light-hearted and fun design, it symbolizes innocence, joy and a carefree spirit.

The simple cartoon style makes it timeless and low maintenance. Whether this adorable duck tattoo is chosen out of nostalgia or pure whimsy, it will add a bright and cheerful touch to any personal tattoo collection.

Lucky four leaf clover tattoo behind ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo depicts a neatly outlined four-leaf clover with thin black lines forming each leaf into a heart shape.

Traditionally associated with luck, hope and happiness, it features a cheerful symbol of good fortune in a minimalist design. The compact placement makes it subtle yet meaningful and perfect for everyday wear.

This lucky clover tattoo is perfect for those who want timeless charm without heavy details. It will add positivity and a touch of playful elegance to your personal style.

Red twin butterfly tattoo behind ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features two delicate red butterflies, their delicate outlines creating a soft and graceful effect.

The vibrant red ink symbolizes passion, transformation and vitality, while the double butterflies symbolize communication or traveling together. Perfectly placed along the curve of the ears, they look bright and stylish with hair up or down.

These bowties are perfect for those who prefer a bold yet feminine design. They perfectly convey movement and freedom. Rich colors and minimalist lines provide timeless appeal while carrying deep personal meaning.

“Musical notes” tattoo behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features two neat black musical notes for a playful and creative design.

Ideal for music lovers, it symbolizes rhythm, passion and a life filled with sound and inspiration. The minimalist black ink makes it elegant and timeless, and the compact size makes it easy to hide or show off.

This tattoo is ideal for musicians or those who have a deep love for melodies. It will be a stylish reminder of the joy and freedom that music brings to everyday life.

Rose tattoo behind ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a rose with fine outlines, clean black lines, and fine leaf detail.

Minimalist style symbolizes love, beauty and sustainability, giving a timeless meaning to compact design. Perfectly following the curves of the ears, they add calm elegance and romantic charm.

The simple yet striking look allows it to stand alone or complement other small tattoos. This tattoo is perfect for those who are looking for a delicate floral design. It remains stylish and deeply expressive without overwhelming the space.

Mini Triceratops tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a tiny Triceratops outlined in clean black lines, giving it a fun prehistoric charm.

The playful dinosaur design represents resilience, strength and a love for unique, bold motifs. Its compact size makes it easy to go unnoticed while still adding a personal touch to your hair styling.

Simple and precise detailing provides a timeless look that pairs naturally with other minimalist tattoos. This miniature Triceratops brings personality and a touch of whimsy to a sophisticated and stylish placement.

Dandelion seed tattoo behind ear

This delicate tattoo features two floating dandelion seeds carefully placed behind the ear, giving it a subtle yet artistic look.

Thin black stems and soft purple fluff create a light, airy feel that conveys gentle movement. Symbolizing desires, freedom or letting go, this design brings peace and hope.

The soft details and discreet layout make it ideal for those who want meaningful ink that remains graceful and easy to maintain.

Black cross tattoo behind the ear

This tattoo features a solid black cross carefully placed just behind the ear, emanating subtle yet powerful symbolism.

Its small size and sleek design make it a discreet choice that carries deep spiritual meaning. Often representing faith, protection or inner strength, it is suitable for anyone looking for a meaningful, minimalist tattoo. The placement makes it personal and easy to show or hide, combining timeless style with genuine significance.

Minimal crescent moon and stars behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a graceful crescent moon surrounded by small sparkling stars and soft wavy lines.

Subtle black outlines create a clean, modern style that is magical yet sophisticated. Its placement adds a hidden personal touch: the design is only visible when the hair is pulled back.

Celestial imagery symbolizes mystery, dreams and good nights, imparting deep meaning in a tiny space. This tattoo is perfect for those who want a serene, nature-inspired design that remains understated yet charming.

Harry Potter Star Cluster Behind the Ear

This tattoo behind the ear features three bold black stars arranged in a neat triangular pattern.

The stars, inspired by the magical themes of the Harry Potter universe, evoke wonder and a sense of adventure. Their clear shapes and balanced arrangement create a simple yet visually striking design.

Its small size makes it unnoticeable, but at the same time demonstrates its love of fantasy and magic. This charming piece is perfect for anyone who wants to pay homage to their favorite magical stories.

Minimum semicolon behind ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a simple black semicolon delicately placed to make a meaningful yet subtle statement.

Pure and bold, it symbolizes hope, resilience and the continuation of history even after difficult times. The minimalist design fits perfectly into this space, quietly evoking strength without drawing too much attention.

Its placement behind the ear gives the headphones a personal, intimate look. This tattoo is perfect for those who want a small, powerful symbol of perseverance and self-love that will last forever and be discreet.

Sun and Moon with stars behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo features a shining sun combined with a crescent moon and tiny sparkling stars.

Pure black contours create a dramatic, balanced look that enhances both daytime energy and nighttime calm. Ideally positioned behind the ear, they appear individual and stylish and are only noticeable when the hair is pulled back.

The combination of the Sun and Moon often symbolizes harmony, life cycles and inner balance. This design is perfect for those looking for a meaningful celestial tattoo that combines beauty with deep symbolism.

Elegant leaf branch behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a delicate leaf branch drawn with clean black lines and fine shading.

The design curves naturally along the ear, highlighting its shape while remaining subtle and stylish. Leaves often symbolize growth, renewal and harmony, adding meaningful depth to this minimalist yet sophisticated piece.

Its subtle details create a soft, elegant look that suits many personal styles. This tattoo is ideal for those looking for a nature-inspired design that combines beauty and symbolism in a discreet and timeless way.

Minimal heart outline behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a simple black heart outline with a tiny dot accent for a nice minimalistic look.

Graceful lines create a soft and elegant shape that looks both modern and romantic. Its small size makes it invisible and reveals its charm only when the hair is styled.

The heart symbolizes love, affection and cherished memories, giving the design a deep meaning. This tattoo is perfect for those looking for a subtle, timeless way to express love or celebrate special connections in life.

Special date Vertical numbers behind the ear

This tattoo behind the ear depicts the significant date of July 24, 1971, arranged vertically in bold black numbers.

A clean, precise font makes the design elegant and easy to read while remaining understated. This type of tattoo often marks a birthday, anniversary, or date that has deep personal meaning.

Its discreet placement behind the ear keeps memories close and personal, revealing the story only when desired. This design is perfect for those who want a timeless and intimate way to celebrate a treasured life event.

Small black rose behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a delicate black rose drawn with clean lines and soft details.

The simple design makes a striking impression while remaining sophisticated and elegant. Roses often symbolize love, beauty and strength, giving this piece a rich personal meaning. Its discreet location allows it to remain hidden or exposed at will.

This minimalistic rose tattoo is perfect for those who appreciate quiet grace and emotional depth. It is a timeless way to express resilience and romantic allure.

Blue “Forget Me Don’t” tattoo behind the ear

This adorable behind-the-ear tattoo features two tiny blue forget-me-not flowers with thin green stems.

The vibrant color and sophisticated design symbolize memories, lasting connections and cherished memories. Its slim size makes it easy to show or hide for a personalized yet stylish look.

Ideal for honoring loved ones or preserving special moments, natural details give the tattoo a fresh and elegant look. This delicate floral piece will add a touch of vibrant beauty to everyday hairstyles and accessories.

Tattoo Elegant feathered wing behind the ear

This behind the ear tattoo features a single, highly detailed wing that seamlessly follows the natural curve of the ear.

The pure black outline and soft feather patterns symbolize freedom, spiritual guidance and personal growth. Its compact placement makes it easy to hide or display, adding versatility to your style.

This wing tattoo is perfect for those looking for a meaningful yet sophisticated design. It perfectly represents aspiration and courage to overcome challenges while remaining graceful for everyday wear and future tattoo combinations.

Constellation tattoo behind the ear

This behind-the-ear tattoo showcases a delicate constellation made up of tiny dots and delicate star shapes.

Minimal lines in black ink create a heavenly trail that curves naturally along the neck. Symbolizing guidance, dreams and cosmic connection, it feels both personal and stylish.

Ideal for astrology lovers or stargazers, the design is sophisticated enough for everyday wear. Its placement makes it easy to hide or show off with an updo, making it a timeless wardrobe staple for anyone inspired by the night sky.