**MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA** — Sarah, a Melbourne-based luxury live illustrator, has been named the IFIW 2026 People's Choice Award winner and included on FIDA's Top 100 Fashion Illustrators list — recognition voted on by peers and audiences across the global fashion illustration community.
Sarah's practice spans live event illustration, fashion, weddings, brand activations and in-store experiences. Her work is characterised by a romantic yet editorial hand — gestural, expressive mark-making in ink and gouache, built around a signature palette of deep burgundy, crimson and wine tones against clean neutrals. She has developed illustrated campaign content for luxury houses including Carolina Herrera, Cartier, Max Mara, Fendi, Gucci, translating fragrance launches into live, in-the-moment illustration for digital and in-person audiences.
"This means so much to me," said Sarah. "I've never believed I'm the most technically skilled illustrator out there — but if my work makes someone smile, that's everything I need it to do. This award belongs just as much to the artist community and the people who've supported me along the way."
Sarah is now booking for:
- Live illustration at fashion, retail and brand events
- Weddings and private celebrations
- Branded content and campaign illustration
- In-store and pop-up activations
- Editorial and collaboration projects
**Available for bookings in Melbourne, across Australia, and internationally by arrangement.**
To enquire about working with Sarah: info@sarahdarby.com.au | Insta @sarahdarbyfashionillustration
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**About Sarah**
Sarah is a Melbourne-based luxury live illustrator working across fashion, weddings, events and brand activations. She was named to FIDA's Top 100 Fashion Illustrators list and is the winner of the IFIW 2026 People's Choice Award.
