Let’s talk fashion illustration, watercolor guest portraits, and why the combo just works at weddings. If you’ve ever seen my live art in action and thought, "Wait, that doesn’t look like a caricature," you’re right—because it isn’t! I use a fashion illustration style for a reason, and it’s all about creating something elegant, stylish, and feel-good for your guests.

Here’s what we’re chatting about today:

What fashion illustration style actually is
Why I don’t do caricatures (no shade, just vibes)
How guests feel when they see themselves in this style
Why this makes for such a perfect keepsake

About the Artist

An artist paints a live watercolor portrait of a bride and groom during their wedding. — Photography by Joanna Moore Photography

Hey friend, I’m Danison—the bowtie-wearing artist behind Bowtie & Brush. I blend fashion illustration with live event artistry to create watercolor portraits that feel like runway moments in real time. I also do live calligraphy and engraving for events that want a little flair and a lot of heart. Based in Portland and often found in Florida, I create experiences that are interactive, elevated, and never boring.

Visit my about me page to get know my enneagram type!

What Even Is Fashion Illustration Style?

If you’ve ever flipped through a fashion magazine and seen sketches of long, flowing dresses on tall, lean figures—that’s the vibe. Fashion illustration exaggerates the body slightly (longer legs, leaner lines), not to distort reality, but to showcase the outfit. Think of it as runway art.

It’s elegant, stylish, and timeless.

In my live portraits, I highlight the outfits and movement. Guests spend time curating their look for the event—so I want to capture that. Suits, dresses, patterns, shoes, veils, hairstyles—all the things that made them feel amazing walking into your celebration.

Why It’s Not a Caricature (and That’s on Purpose)

Caricatures are fun! They’re meant to be exaggerated and silly. Big noses, funny faces, goofy expressions—and that’s great for certain events.

But I wanted to create something different.

Fashion illustration-style portraits are meant to be elevated, flattering, and celebratory. There’s no poking fun. No cartoon-style faces. No exaggerating features people might be self-conscious about. I don’t even paint faces in my style—just silhouettes, hair, outfits, and that ‘je ne sais quoi’ energy that your guests bring to the party.

It’s not about altering people. It’s about seeing them as the best version of themselves—stylish, elegant, and frame-worthy.

How This Style Makes People Feel

Every time I finish a portrait and hand it over, I get the best reactions.

"This looks like I’m walking a runway!"
"I’ve never looked cooler."
"I can’t believe I get to keep this!"

People light up when they see themselves in this way. And that’s the goal. Everyone deserves a moment to feel fabulous—especially when they’ve dressed up for your wedding or event. My job is to honor that effort and make them feel like a model.

And let’s be real: these are the pieces guests actually keep. I’ve had people message me years later saying their portrait is still hanging up on their wall or sitting on their desk. That’s the magic.

An artist takes a photo of a bride and groom to use as a reference for a live watercolor portrait. — Photography by Dewitt For Love Photography

Why It’s the Perfect Guest Favor

Weddings are filled with thoughtful details, but let’s be honest—some favors just don’t make it past the parking lot. A fashion-style watercolor portrait? That’s a keepsake. A conversation piece. A framed reminder of how great they looked and how loved they felt.

Whether you book me for a wedding, corporate event, or intimate celebration, this style adds a touch of timeless charm and high-fashion fun. It’s personal. It’s artistic. It’s something they won’t forget.

FAQ: Fashion Illustration Guest Portraits

1. Do you add facial features in your portraits?
Nope! My signature style focuses on silhouettes, outfits, and overall vibe.

2. Can you include pets or accessories?
Yes! I love adding dogs, flower crowns, sneakers, handbags—whatever helps tell the story.

3. Will you make me look taller or thinner?
I use classic fashion proportions (longer limbs) so the focus stays on the outfits—and everyone ends up looking like a Vogue sketch.

4. What if guests are shy?
I paint from photos, so no one has to sit still. They can enjoy the event while I work.

5. Do people actually keep their portraits?
Absolutely. I get messages all the time about guests framing their portraits or gifting them to others.

More Blogs about Live Watercolor Guest Portraits

Let’s Give Your Wedding that Final Bowtie Touch!

Fashion illustration is a fun and creative art form that celebrates the style and spirit of fashion. By using exaggerated features and artistic expression, I can make your guests and their outfits come to life. Whether you're a wedding couple or a fashion brand, fashion style watercolor guest portraits are a great way to make anyone attending your event feel so good about themselves.

So, are you ready to give your wedding that final bowtie touch? If so, book a free consult to discuss how we can create some art for your big day! For more info on my own style, make sure to check out my Watercolor Guest portraits page.

Follow me on Instagram for more of my recent work and behind the scenes!

Fashion Illustration Watercolor Guest Portraits: Embracing a Unique Style