Post Malone’s Tattoos and What They Mean – [2021 Celebrity Ink Guide]
Known as much for his tattoos as for his unique vocals and genre defying blend of hip hop, grunge and country music, producer singer, and rapper Post Malone has inspired a new generation to embrace bold, innovative ink and tattoo placement.
Despite the growing acceptance of tattoos, ink on the face is still considered extreme, although even this is changing rapidly thanks to notable musicians such as Post Malone and Justin Bieber.
It’s been widely reportedly that it was Bieber who set the tattoo blaze alight for Post Malone by telling him in 2016 that tattoos didn’t hurt. Since then, he’s from a first tattoo, to getting inked more often than kids get temporary tattoos from the convenience store.
With well over sixty tattoos –from the classic skull tattoo through to circles, and body art paying homage to civilizations such as Ancient Rome and Ancient Egypt– Post Malone is in the middle of a full-blown ink explosion.
Read on to take a look at some of Post Malone‘s most prominent and exciting tattoos.
Latest Work: bloody Buzzsaw Blade Tattoo
Look, it’s hard to keep up with all of Post Malone’s tattoos, whether you’re a fan of the artist or not. We’re pretty sure that this is his latest: a new face tattoo featuring a bloody buzzsaw blade! It was tagged by tattoo artist Ruben Reza from Junction City Tattoo, who’s done more than one interesting piece for the rapper.
View this post on Instagram
Medieval Gauntlet and Morningstar
You don’t often see featured face tattoos , even amongst celebrity rappers. The medieval gauntlet and morningstar Post added towards the end of 2019 is certainly eye catching, even in comparison to his other facial tattoos and neck ink.
The gauntlet shoots down the right side of his face near his previously drawn Claymore bastard sword, while the Morningstar – a wicked spiked mace swung like an Olympic hammer by a knight on horseback in battle – snakes along his jawline. The whole piece is done in bold, traditional style featuring heavy use of black line ink, and was inked by artist Kyle Hediger.
The Many Face Tattoos of Post Malone
In the past, tattoos were restricted to the world of sailors , bikers and convicts. Anyone sporting ink was viewed as part of the fringes of society. A lot has changed, and famous entertainers like Post Malone and Justin Bieber are central to the current explosion in visible ink expression.
According to some polls, as many as 40% of millennials sport some kind of ink, and it isn’t uncommon to see visible tattoos on people from a variety of backgrounds and walks of life. Even police officers rock tattoos these days.
In the past, the forehead and face were the last parts of the body to get inked; many artists wouldn’t even apply ink to someone’s face unless they were mostly covered in tattoos. While Post Malone has plenty of ink on the rest of his body, the unique style of self applied face tattoo he favours represent his most dramatic work.
While those of an older vintage – even the tattoo heavy generation of the 1990s and early 2000s – shudder at the thought of even one face tattoo. For an artist like Post Malone, it’s just another personal way to try and be comfortable in an increasingly difficult world.
In a fascinating cover story Malone told GQ Magazine recently:“It does maybe come from a place of insecurity, to where I don’t like how I look, so I’m going to put something cool on there so I can look at myself and say, ‘You look cool, kid,’ and have a modicum of self-confidence, when it comes to my appearance.”
1. Barbed Wire
Located at the top of his forehead, Malone has a section of barbed wire applied in clean black and gray ink. While many people have suggested that the barbed wire tattoo came about as an expression of Post’s ongoing mental health issues and, he has never confirmed speculation.
The top of his head is only one of the spots where barbed wire is etched into Post Malone‘s skin. He also has a tat of barbed wire running across each hand above the knuckles, and there’s another barbed wire tattoo on his left arm.
2. Always Tired
Centered below the eye at the top of each cheek, Post Malone has “Always Tired” applied in a stylized cursive script. Despite theories about the deeper meaning behind the ink, Malone has responded with a more lackadaisical explanation: “I tried to do something that’s relatively the same length of letters. But I guess ‘always’ is more letters than ‘tired’…but I was tired, so I didn’t realize.”
3. Stay Away
Another interesting piece of script work that utilizes a similar cursive typeface as the other script on the right side of Post Malone‘s forehead, just above the hair of his right eyebrow. He explained that they are song lyrics, and that he also got the piece “to piss off my mom.”
4. Bastard Sword
Running down the right temple of his face Post has a medieval Claymore sword, also known as a bastard sword, tattooed in black and gray ink. Malone has mentioned in interviews that this piece stems from a childhood fascination with medieval weaponry.
“I’ve always been obsessed with knights and medieval times and ancient Egypt and ancient Rome and shit like that,” he said, again to GQ Magazine.
5. Japanese Waves
Coming out from the hairline on the left side of his face Malone has a stylized, black ink variation on the wave designs commonly found in traditional Japanese irezumi tattoos. Post got this ink while in Tokyo.
6. Smiley Face
Located below his right eye, Post has a small and simple smiley face, with “X” eyes, and according to the man himself, this is another attempt to annoy his mother.
7. Playboy Bunny
Below the smiley face is a tiny Playboy Bunny, one of several that Malone has inked on various parts of his body. While the connotations of Hugh Hefner’s unmistakable logo are fairly obvious, Malone has never spoken about this piece.
8. Small Heart
Below the Playboy Bunny, on his left cheek, Malone has a tiny, heart produced with black ink and negative space. Malone has never explained the motivation or significance behind this simple design.
9. Ace of Spades
Above his right eye, Post has a pair of black and gray playing cards with the ace of spades in the foreground. The deep symbolism associated with this card and placement at the forefront of rock and roll imagery thanks to Mötör Head, as well as the fact the Malone has never addressed the piece, leaves the meaning behind this tattoo up for speculation.
Portraiture Ink
Malone has a variety of black and gray portraits of different figures that are important in his life.
1. Johnny Cash Bicep Piece
Located on his left bicep and completed using a photo-realistic approach with black and gray ink, Malone has a portrait of “The Man in Black.” This piece is a tribute to the musician and the impact the bad ass singer had on Malone’s pursuit of music as a lifestyle.
2. JFK Tattoo
On his left hand, near the thumb, Post has a realistic black and gray portrait of the 35th president of the United States. Malone has mentioned that JFK was someone he felt people should “model their Americanism” after. This brilliant piece was delivered by tattoo artist Victor Modafferi of Bullseye Tattoo in New York.
View this post on Instagram
3. Lil’ Peep Portrait
After the sudden death of friend and fellow rapper Lil Peep in 2017, Malone got the portrait as a memorial to the musician. Malone has stated he felt Peep died much too soon and never got the chance to fully influence the music industry and world the way he was destined to do. Despite their short friendship, Malone used this piece to honor the late musician.
View this post on Instagram
4. Soldier and Knight Tattoos Right Forearm
On his right forearm Malone has a lightly etched World War 1 era soldier just below the elbow join. Below that is a fully armored medieval knight in battle, stabbing at an opponent with a long spear. Tattoos of this kind are often associated with courage.
5. Axe Playing Kurt Cobain
Along with a portrait shot of the Nirvana front many on one of his left finger and the classic lyrics ‘whatever’ and ‘nevermind’ on his palms – etched by tattoo artist JonBoy – Post has a black and gray action shot of Kurt Cobain smoking a cigarette and playing guitar, in the crook of his left elbow.
6. Dylan on the harmonica
Just above Cobain and next to Lil Peep Post Malone has a grayscale tribute to folk music legend Bob Dylan: the popular songwriter with a harmonica close by his mouth.
View this post on Instagram
Hand and Finger Tattoos
Malone has a series of small, black and gray portraits on the fingers of both hands. These represent different musicians that have inspired him over the years. Bankroll Fresh, Dimebag Darrell, George Harrison, John Lennon, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Kurt Cobain and Elvis all have their places on Malone’s digits.
On his right hand above musician’s row and some barbed wire, Malone sports a bad ass animal realist roaring bear tattoo done in black and gray. Bears are another symbol of courage, but also strength and unwavering concentration.
Lit Match Tattoo
Malone has a simple black and gray lit match tattoo at the outside base of his right thumb.
St. Jude Tattoo
Another black and gray portrait piece, Malone has St. Jude tattooed on his left forearm, facing forward. While he hasn’t directly commented on the significance of this piece, St Jude is the patron saint of lost causes, which most likely informs Malone’s choice for this specific tattoo.
Large Color Skull Arm Tattoo
On his left arm Post Malone has one of his few full color tattoos, a skull piece done in red, white and blue. It has a lot of Texas about it with the large negative space star image at the center of the forehead, and red/white halving of the rest of the skull.
Bovine Skull Tattoo
Post Malone has a few different skull tattoos stashed across his body – but his most visible is the black and gray one nestling in his throat that features the skull of a bovine, replete with horns tucked under his chin, and empty eye sockets.
Playboy Bunny Ink
One of Post’s older pieces of body art is a playboy bunny tattoo on his left forearm that’s now almost obscured by newer work.
View this post on Instagram
Decomposing Jesus Tattoo
Located on the right side of his chest, Malone has a black and gray portrait of a decomposing Jesus. One of his larger tattoos, Malone has never spoken to the significance of this intriguing and unique piece.
View this post on Instagram
While we may not know the significance for each item in rapper Post Malone’s tattoo catalogue, he embodies one of the greatest parts of getting ink: doing it for yourself. Even though the whole world sees when he gets new designs, there is no doubt that the only person Malone is getting tattooed for is Malone.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
Check Price
Get 15% off using the discount code NEXTL at checkout
Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
Check Price
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
Check Price
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
Check Price
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
Check Price
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
Check Price
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Check Price
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
Check Price
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
Check Price
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
Check Price
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Check Price
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
Check Price
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Check Price
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
Check Price
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Check Price
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Check Price
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Check Price
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Check Price
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
Check Price
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Check Price
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.