Tattoos, Jewelry, and Symbols: The Hidden Meanings in Prince’s Style

When you think of Prince, the legendary Purple One, your mind instantly drifts to his unparalleled music and electrifying stage presence. But let’s take a moment to dive deeper into the visual artistry that was just as much a part of his legacy—the tattoos, jewelry, and symbols that defined Prince’s iconic style. Fans and fashion enthusiasts alike have long been fascinated with the layers of meaning encoded in his looks, and today we’re unraveling the secrets behind those unforgettable style choices.

The Symbolic Tattoos: More Than Just Ink

Prince’s tattoos were subtle yet purposeful. Unlike many celebrities who showcase bold, flashy designs, Prince’s tattoos spoke to his personal beliefs and artistic journey, often concealed beneath his royal attire. One of his most-discussed tattoos was a small symbol on his finger—an emblem that many believe to be a nod to his infamous “Love Symbol,” the glyph that he adopted as his stage name in the 1990s after a dispute with his record label.

This Love Symbol wasn’t just a quirky stage name replacement—it was a rebellion against the music industry, a battle for creative control, and a representation of unity between masculine and feminine energies. His tattoos, like this, mirrored the complex duality he wove into his music and public persona.

Jewelry Fit for Royalty: Layers With Purpose

If tattoos were the whispers of Prince’s style, then his jewelry was the bold proclamation. The Purple One had a flair for statement accessories that complemented his wardrobe and amplified his message. From chunky rings to layered necklaces, each piece was carefully curated, often featuring symbols tied to spirituality, mythology, and love.

One of his go-to motifs was the fleur-de-lis—a symbol historically associated with royalty, purity, and divine right. This was no accident; Prince wore the fleur-de-lis as a badge of his self-made kingship in the world of music and culture. Another favorite was the ankh, the ancient Egyptian symbol for life, which resonated with Prince’s spiritual side and his continuous reinvention.

Layering was key. Multiple rings stacked on his fingers, chains intertwined around his neck, and bracelets clinking on his wrists created a look that was simultaneously eclectic and sophisticated. In an era where minimalist jewelry was trending, Prince broke norms, reminding us that accessories can be an extension of identity and story.

The Iconic Love Symbol: More Than a Trademark

No discussion of Prince’s style symbolism is complete without unpacking his famous Love Symbol. Created by combining the astrological symbols for male (♂) and female (♀), this glyph epitomized Prince’s defiance of conventional gender norms. It challenged societal expectations and pushed the boundaries of expression at a time when such conversations weren’t mainstream.

When he famously changed his stage name to this symbol in 1993, it was more than a publicity stunt—it was a powerful statement about artistic freedom, gender fluidity, and identity. Fans still proudly sport tattoos of the emblem, and it remains an enduring image in pop culture, tattoo art, and jewelry lines inspired by the icon.

The Color Purple: A Style Statement and Symbol of Power

Of course, Prince’s signature color choice can’t be overlooked. The color purple became synonymous with his name, spirit, and artistic vision. Rooted in associations with royalty, spirituality, and creativity, purple in his wardrobe was a deliberate symbol of empowerment and mystique.

From purple suits and scarves to elaborate stage costumes adorned with amethyst-colored jewels, Prince used purple as a visual language to captivate audiences and express the depth of his persona.

Tattoos and Jewelry in Today’s Trend Landscape

Prince’s intricate layering of symbols, jewelry, and subtle tattoos was way ahead of its time, aligning now with the current resurgence of meaningful tattoos and bold, personalized jewelry.

Today, fans who love tattoo culture and symbolic jewelry find inspiration in Prince’s legacy, often incorporating similar motifs—like ankhs, fleur-de-lis, and his iconic Love Symbol—into their own styles. The blend of spirituality, rebellion, and self-expression that Prince captured in his accessories speaks directly to today’s trendsetters craving depth behind their aesthetics.

Final Thoughts: Prince’s Style Was a Masterclass in Symbolic Fashion

More than just a musical genius, Prince was a style visionary who encoded his identity, beliefs, and artistry into every piece of jewelry he wore and every tattoo he revealed (or concealed). His fashion wasn’t just about looking good—it was about telling a story, challenging norms, and connecting with fans on multiple levels.

For lovers of tattoos, jewelry, and symbolic style, exploring Prince’s legacy offers a rich tapestry of inspiration. It’s a reminder that style is not just about trends, but about personal mythology and the power of symbols to shape how we live and express ourselves.

Stay tuned and keep channeling that Prince-level confidence and creativity in your own tattoo and jewelry choices. After all, as the man himself showed us—style is the ultimate form of self-expression.

By: koalafriend