Montana Forbes — London Fashion Illustrator

Light and sensitive line work, subtle colour palettes and an appreciation for pattern and texture are what set London-based fashion illustrator Montana Forbes apart from the rest. Inspired by the psychology of fashion and the narrative of individual style, she’s an expert in the field and is an Association of Illustrators board member, leading masterclasses in fashion illustration at the House of Illustration.

Her childhood in the US and Southern Africa has informed her style and sense of colour, she’s inspired by vintage magazines and clothing and an advocate for sustainable fashion. She studied Visual Communication at university, focusing on the history of art, photography and graphic design.

Approach

Researching and collecting visual references of a subject matter is the first part of Montana’s approach. After getting together a pool of ideas she starts doodling and sketching in pencil. Later on, Photoshop is used to develop and tweak the image, and to apply the colour.

Key Software

Photoshop

Style

Montana has a clear, minimal, pared-back style. Her aim is to capture a timeless sensibility in her images, but one that people can easily relate to.

Client list

Montana has been commissioned by clients including The BBC, Capitol Records, The Evening Standard, Elle, Harrods, Brill, Penguin Random House, Technomarine Watches, Soho House, Waitrose and more.

The Water Bearer illustration by Montana Forbes