Tattoos and taboos

Re: Tattoos

I think you just need to understand your environment and use some common sense. I have many tattoos and have learned to read situations to determine if it's appropriate to let them breathe. I have been working at a major a corporation for over 4 years and generally keep them covered up, which hasn't limited my comfort or personal style in any way.

I'm a woman, so there are even more issues with respect to my appearance: skirt lengths, cut of the neckline, and overal tightness of clothing. In fact I just nixed a skirt this morning since it was too tight for my comfort zone in an office dominated by men.

The bottom line is that professional dress is intended to keep your appearance from being distracting in any way. That includes ill-fitting, mismatched, and worn clothing, and, depending on the context, tattoos. You want people to focus on what you're saying, not what you're wearing.

On the same token, your demeanor, professionalism, and good work will stand out more than a few lines of ink on your skin. Use good judgment, then don't worry too much about it.