So what exactly are gothic tattoos? They are symbols that generally (not always) represent the ideas, beliefs, and philosophy of Goth Culture. The prevailing stereotype seems to be that goth images are all about death, coffins, and blood— but this is a simplification and often nothing more than demi-goth fashion. Authentic Goth sub-culture celebrates beauty in all aspects of life, including but not exclusively death, a style that others may find morbid or macabre.

Gothic tattoos can be both a specific tat style or a representation of actual gothic subject matter. Many tattoos are transformed into gothic tattoos by simple modifications to their design and look.