What is the history of ephemeral tattoos?
Temporary tattoos, also known as ephemeral tattoos or decals, are an alternative to classic tattoos made withpermanent ink by a tattooist. Ephemeral tattoos are designed to remain on the skin for just a few days.
A trend since the 1990s, many of us think that temporary tattoos were invented at that time, but the reality is quite different.
In fact, today’s temporary tattoos are a far cry from the ones we had before the 2000s. They’re more stylish, and are now just as suitable for children as they are for adults. Do you want proof? Bernard invites you to take a look at his ephemeral tattoos on his website www.bernardforever.fr.
When were ephemeral tattoos invented?
The transfer image used to create temporary tattoos is said to have been invented around 1910. Although the ephemeral tattoos of yesteryear used more or less the same technique as those of today, the designs were rather different.
In fact, temporary tattoos were originally intended for children, and the manufacturers designed them accordingly.
With theirtemporary tattoos, children could feel like “grown-ups” who were tattooed with needles. At the time, however, it was frowned upon to be tattooed, as the practice was reserved for pirates, bandits and prisoners. The connotation of indelible tattooing was therefore pejorative.
1970: the temporary tattoo market opens up to older children
It wasn’t until the 1970s that older children could wear temporary tattoos. TV and film programs are joining forces with the world of temporary tattoos to offer customers designs featuring their favorite characters.
Temporary tattoos became a veritable fashion phenomenon, bringing together people who shared the same passions and interests.
1990 and girly tattoos
1990 marked the turning point for ephemeral tattoos with pop culture.
There were plenty of girly tattoos for girls to tattoo on each other.
Decals featured cartoon characters such as little ponies and Disney princesses.
Jewel tattoos in the 2000s
The temporary tattoo industry has created ephemeral jewelry, with the aim of reinventing itself and reaching an ever-older, trendier target group. A real revolution in the world of temporary tattoos, ephemeral jewelry is printed insilver or gold ink and is very popular with young adult women.
In fact, you’ll find all our gold and silver ephemeral jewelry on our site with the “angle d’or“, ” les p’tits joncs“,“le petit jardin” and “l’été indien” boards.
From the invention of image transfer to the present day, ephemeral tattoos have had to compete with real needle tattoos, which are no longer considered just for thugs.
Nonetheless, temporary tattoos have not lost their popularity, and continue to be used by children who want to imitate the grown-ups; but also by adults who don’t want to or can’t get a tattoo.
Likewise, temporary tattoos are now the stars of events, as you can create them in your own image. For more information, Bernard invites you to visit thepersonalization tab on his website.
