There is something about the simplicity of pencil to paper. How a blank page can come to life when a talented hand guides the pencil. The joyful act of drawing comes so naturally when we are children but sadly it's something we tend to do less of as we grow older.

This group of present day fashion illustrators, however, have mastered their talent to create some amazing pieces of art.

Here's a list of a few of my favourite fashion illustrators:

Ignasi Monreal

Ignasi Monreal is a 23-year-old illustrator and graphic designer from Barcelona, Spain. It was the realism of his work that caught my eye as well as his playful spin on fashion versus fantasy and the concepts he pairs together.  The life in his illustrations are wonderful. 

Emma Leonard

Emma Leonard is a Melbourne-based illustrator who combines traditional media with digital techniques to create carefully considered renderings of delicate femininity, fragility and ethereal beauty. I first came across Emma's work at a design fair in Melbourne and bought the girl with the camera illustration below. It has journeyed with me as I have lived around the world. I still love it as much as I did when I first bought it.  

Brigitte May

Brigitte May is a Sydney-based fashion illustrator. I discovered Brigitte on Instagram (@brigitte_may) and fell in love with her style and soft lines.

Recently, I happen to win a piece from her via Instagram which gave me the inspiration to blog about the fashion illustrators I love. 

Kelly Thompson

Kelly Thompson is a Melbourne-based New Zealand illustrator, photographer and creative whose drawing style is feminine, warm and refined.

Launched this March, in conjunction to the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, Kelly collaborated with photographer Derek Henderson’s to create Darkness of Noon, a book featuring Derek's sensual nude photographs of fashion model, Zippora Seven intersected by Kelly's stunning illustrations. 

Anya Brock

Anya Brock is a Perth-based artist and illustrator who paints varied subject matter in a broad range of styles. You may have seen her work around Perth, in trendy restaurants, hip stores or on building facades.

The bright colours, dripping effect and expression in her artwork, you'll start to recognise Anya's pieces everywhere you go. 

Pippa McManus

Pippa McManus, Perth-based illustrator, is the local to watch, recently winning the Total Digital Creative Edge category at the 17th Annual WA Fashion Awards in February.

Her fashion illustrations are full of character, colour and beauty. 

Kat McLeod

Kat McLeod is a Melbourne born artist whose quirky drawings you may have seen in book Michi Girl, Harpers Bazaar, Vogue and The Age.

Bec Winnel

Bec Winnel is a self taught artist based in Kiewa Valley, Victoria. Her detailed and delicate feminine portraits are often accompanied by elements of nature and nostalgia,

reflecting her affection for the natural environment and love of finding the beauty and sentiment in old objects that were once special to someone.

Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith is an Australia illustrator who takes inspiration from fashion, film and fairy tales. Her fine detailed pencil work captures a likeness to her subjects, traditionally created on one layer,

while additional water colour and digital elements add subtle hints of colour and softness.

Lei xx