Every dress begins with a drawing, every skirt with a sketch. Illustration is an integral element of fashion design; a starting point for creation, a means of expressing the moods, emotions, and experiences carried by garments—yet is too often overlooked. Through stark tones and serendipitous smudges, fashion illustrators breathe life into trends and seasons.

In this new, compact edition, you’ll find works from 90 contemporary artists located all around the world, including Ruben Toledo, Aurore de La Morinerie, Bil Donovan, Tanya Ling, and Jean-Philippe Delhomme. Following an introduction by illustration expert Steven Heller, art and fashion historian Adelheid Rasche provides an in-depth exploration of clothing illustration, beginning in the 17th century and stretching forward to today.

Each illustrator is profiled through sumptuous reproductions of their work and quotes describing their individual approaches. These are interspersed by commentary and praise from renowned experts and icons in the field of fashion, including Valentino, Maison Martin Margiela, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, and H&M.

Illustration Now! is your essential work of reference to the world’s latest, most exciting artists. The series’ easy-to-navigate A-Z entries include current and recent projects and artist information such as biographical details, listed agents, exhibitions, and websites.