Flash tattoos remain a prominent trend in SoCal

The flash tattoo trend that introduced itself in 2012 has made its mark in Los Angeles territory. Three years have passed, and the metallic tattoo fever is still in its prime market for gathering revenue.

The trend started a couple years back when Dior and Camille Miceli introduced a limited edition flash tattoo collection. The line included earrings, bracelets, and cuffs that had bits of 24 carat gold. The popularity of this trend didn’t hit until 2014 where it became prominent in popular music festivals in Southern California, such as Coachella and Burning Man. In Paris Fashion Week, Dries Van Noten and Tommy Hilfiger had forms of gold or black flash tattoos, igniting the temporary accessories as a Spring/Summer 2015 trend.

As the festival summer season approaches, the retailers of these metallic tattoos are able to capitalize on their target audience. Brands such as Lulu DK, Flash Tats, and Moorea Seal use this popularity to their advantage by marketing their brands during “flash tattoo” season.

Hot Jewels gave away more than 100,000 temporary tattoos last year as a Facebook giveaway in order to market their brand. “Hot Jewels takes the temporary tattoo trend to a new place that’s glamorous, practical, and accessible to everyone,” said Scott Boilen, CEO and president of Allstar Products Group, a consumer products company.

My Jewel Candy, another retailer offering flash tattoos, infuses 24 karat gold and silver microparticles into their designs to offer a luxurious option. These sheets typically range anywhere from 12 to 40 dollars.

Yeprem, which sells at Neiman Marcus, has also contributed to the flash tattoo trend by adding metallic pieces to their brand. “Our philosophy is to create edgy pieces with a touch of elegance,” said Virna Chakardemian, creative director.

On top of creating beautiful pieces, brands are creating new ways to keep their tattoo products relevant. Lulu DK designed a new line of jewelry tattoos called “Desert Blue.” The new line was produced in Los Angeles with a strong West Coast influence.

The tattoos typically last about four to six days. The benefit of these tattoos is that they are affordable and trendy as an alternative to expensive jewelry. The D-I-Y tattoos stay accessible and relevant in SoCal due to their price and target musical festival attendee audience.