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Character illustration, since the earliest days of neolithic cave art to today’s 3d game characters, has always been and will probably always be an essential art form. The changes in character illustration styles, fashions, and techniques typically represent the changes to art in general. This article is not a history, this article is designed to show off modern, trending styles of character illustration to inspire illustrators to come up with their own characters and illustration style. It is also targetting people searching for a character illustration for their brand, website, campaigns or any other reason and showing you the type of thing that is around today, inspiring your ideas and concepts of what you want to be created for you and helping you show your designers exactly what you expect.
By splitting the top character illustration style of the day into categories, we’ve made it easy for you to scroll down to the areas you are drawn to but also to browse and be inspired by the high quality, highly stylized, and highly original character illustration that pushing the standards of art onwards and upwards.
In this article:
1. 3D Character Illustrations
2. Flat Character Illustrations
3. Abstract Character Illustrations
4. Outline Character Illustrations
5. Retro / Vintage Character Illustrations
6. Monochrome Character Illustrations
7. Hand-Drawn Character Illustrations
8. Geometry Character Illustrations
9. Pixel Character Illustrations
10. Pinup Character Illustrations
11. Manga Character Illustrations
12. Over Proportion Character Illustrations
13. Paint Character Illustrations
14. Sketch style Character Illustrations
15. Isometric Character Illustrations
16. Texture Character Illustrations
17. Styles Mix Character Illustrations
18. Color Mix Character Illustrations
19. Doodle Character Illustrations
20. Futuristic Character Illustrations
21. Pattern Character Illustrations
22. Graffiti Character Illustrations
23. Low Poly Character Illustrations
24. Traditional Cartoon Character Illustrations
25. Game Style Character Illustrations
26. Cute Character Illustrations
27. Realistic Character Illustrations
28. Watercolor Character Illustrations
29. Modern Cartoon Character Illustrations
30. Pastel Character Illustrations
31. Colorful with Stroke Character Illustrations
32. Modern Minimalist Character Illustrations
33. Thin Stroke Character Illustrations
34. Flat + Gradient Character Illustrations
35. Ink Character Illustrations
36. Chibi Character Illustrations
37. Comic Character Illustrations
1. 3D Character Illustrations
3D character illustration is more a type than a style but nevertheless a growing trend especially online, where animation and movements are coming more into play. Using shadow and shading to create a 3d effect that adds realism gives greater engagement. Here are some very different types of 3d character illustrations that exemplify the type of work that is becoming more and more popular today.
Example by Leo Natsume
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Miagui .
Example by SUBIN YOON
Example by Grzegorz Kamieniecki
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Miguel Ángel Camprubí
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Maxim Shkret
Example by Neel Designs
2. Flat Character Illustrations
Flat character illustration, the effect opposite to 3d works equally well digitally or in print. Taking away any effort at realism but can create stand out, memorable images that get a very direct message across to the viewer. . Graphic icons are just one example, but there are many other great flat character illustrations that hit the mark, and here are a few examples.
Example by yujin Won
Example by Benoit Drigny
Example by Kit8
Example by Jonathan Larenas
Example by Ani
Example by Евгений Щербаков
Example by GraphicMama
3. Abstract Character Illustrations
Character illustration in an abstract style matches the freedom of abstraction with the form of a character. Creating interest, and often eye-catching design, abstraction makes the viewer work but often with long term benefit. Especially popular in logo design but these two fine examples show how different this style can be.
Example by Spencer Gabor
Example by Dmitry Stolz
4. Outline Character Illustrations
Sometimes the simple things are the hardest to achieve. By using an outline technique, the character illustration is stripped down leaving nothing to hide behind. These great examples of outline characters are confident and stylish and convey a direct concept.
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Agnieszka Brożyna
Example by Isaac Anthony
5. Retro / Vintage Character Illustrations
Retro and vintage never die. Flexible, varied, and suitable for so many things. Essentially the skill in combining the latest technology and artistic thinking alongside a retro feel is what makes these character illustrations extra special. Something for everyone.
Example by Tony Babel
Example by Gastón Pacheco
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Thom Niessink
6. Monochrome Character Illustrations
Single color and shades of that color, standout. Confident, laid bare but slick and cool. You don’t have to go black and white, play with other colors too. Monochrome character illustration focuses the viewer on the image and the message. Just look at these superb examples.
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by our own night
Example by Artyom Khamitov
Example by Akshay Raghavan
7. Hand-Drawn Character Illustrations
Personality oozes from hand-drawn character illustration of that there is little doubt. Latest drawing software offers a great chance to create freehand style drawings digitally not only on paper. We emphasis on time and attention to detail this style is ideal for more personalized, craft-type businesses or businesses that want to add an extra special boutique feel. These examples illustrate just some of the amazing ways hand-drawn illustration can fit into your work.
Example by Kris Howes
Example by Kristiana Vellucci
Example by Carlos Fernandez
Example by Jeremy Noceda
Example by Pablo Stanley
Example by Grit
8. Geometry Character Illustrations
Strong lines, blocks, and color dominate the ideas of geometric character illustration. allowing you to create imaginative and interesting character combinations which look great in all types of promotion and advertising. Simple but solid a nice combination.
Example by Pes Motion Studio
Example by Ana Duje
Example by Catur Argi
9. Pixel Character Illustrations
A kind of computer retro look, we’ve come so far in this area that now it’s possible to have fun and go back. Fun and imaginative, almost abstract concepts. Check out this selection of different ideas.
Example by GraphicMama
Example by Jiayang
Example by Gustavo Viselner
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by RGZNSK .
Example by Pixel Jeff
Example by Pako
10. Pinup Character Illustrations
Retro, pop art type pinup character illustration that won’t suit every situation but in the right place can have a dramatic effect. Graphic and classic. Here are some standout examples to get your creativity flowing.
Example by Alexandra Erkaeva
Example by Alexandra Erkaeva
Example by DGIM studio
Example by Saul Herrera
11. Manga Character Illustrations
This Japanese cultural phenomenon is now huge in the west. Using a highly stylized comic book style, Manga character illustrations can be angular and dramatic or softer and cute, either way, they will get the kids attention.
Example by Mercedes Bazan
Example by soyeon KIM
Example by Mercedes Bazan
Example by Mike Anderson
12. Over Proportion Character Illustrations
By taking what on the face of it looks like quite a normal piece of art and using aspects of disproportion, you can suddenly transform your character illustration into something oddly quirky and interestingly different. Here is a selection of art that does this superbly well.
Example by Darya Semenova
Example by MUTI
Example by Elmira Gokoryan
Example by Diana Stoyanova
Example by Horvath Timea
Example by Anton Fritsler
Example by Frederique Matti
13. Paint Character Illustrations
Like hand-drawn techniques, drawing software is working on paint effects and styles with brilliant innovations. Painted character illustrations have bags of personality and can be totally diverse depending on the effect you wish to create. These amazing examples show just part of what can be done.
Example by Jamilya Bukrina
Example by Alyona Nagel
Example by Meimo Siwapon
Example by Ekaterina Savic
Example by Emanuela Di Donna
14. Sketch style Character Illustrations
Sketched character illustrations take the personal elements of hand-drawn and add a more experimental feel. Often stunningly eye-catching especially if using a digital package as it seems a style completely at odds with the medium. Wide-ranging suiting any technique, just check out these inspiring examples.
Example by spovv
Example by Meimo Siwapon
Example by Agata Kubiak
Example by Inna Grevtseva
15. Isometric Character Illustrations
Isometric character illustrations add perspective and are often used for technical or explanatory drawings, combining details and space in a well organized, well-planned way. By adding character illustration you can add a human touch whilst retaining the style. Here is a collection to inspire.
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Zuco •
Example by Mikhail Mogilnikov
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Multiple Owners
You may also be interested in more cool isometric examples, check out 60+ Incredible Isometric Illustration Examples That Praise This Style
16. Texture Character Illustrations
Texture is big in design at the moment but it doesn’t have to be used for background design. Texture in character illustration gives the touch-me quality that draws the viewer in, it can add depth and interest to a characterization. Let your imagination run wild with what textures you want to use, there are no rules to break.
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Example by Anastazi Li
Example by Aleksey Zhdanov
Example by Pierre Kleinhouse
Example by Augusto Zambonato
Example by Tomasz Woźniakowski
17. Styles Mix Character Illustrations
One of the top trending fashions in design a the moment particularly on the web is mixing up styles. Interesting and exciting combinations of techniques can be used to highlight certain areas and provide focal points. Often highly contrasting styles such as hand-drawn and geometric work brilliantly overlaid or side-by-side. Here are a few examples to whet your appetite.
Example by Manuel Neto
Example by Gustavo Henrique
Example by Andre Laham
Example by GraphicMama
Example by Multiple Owners
18. Color Mix Character Illustrations
Why not try mixing the colors, rather than or as well as the styles. Clashing color combinations or unusual color palettes are one way of creating an instant impact in your character illustrations, and here are some ways in which it’s worked expertly well.
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Daniela Paz
Example by Delfina Perez Adan
19. Doodle Character Illustrations
Doodle character illustrations are often warm, free, and fun and like sketch style immediately hit you in digital media as they seem at odds with the more logical, cold idea of computer art. Using new techniques on drawing and painting software packages, the world of doodling in an absolute possibility. Look at what can be done, with a bit of imagination.
Example by Sebastian Abboud
Example by Sebastian Abboud
Example by Sebastian Abboud
Example by wotto76
Do you need doodle illustrations? Check out these 50+ Doodle Illustrations for your Designs
20. Futuristic Character Illustrations
The future used to feel bright, and the clashing neon colors and highlights reflect this style in these futuristic character illustrations. Wildly imaginative, innovative techniques and certainly screaming for attention, this could be the style that gets you or your brand noticed.
Example by Fabien Rousseau
Example by Neil V Fernando
Example by Burak Cinar
21. Pattern Character Illustrations
Pattern, like texture, is a creeping trend. Using patterns, such as cross-hatching or circles to illustrate color and shade and distinguish between areas is a fantastic idea. Incorporating into character illustration makes a refreshing change form block of color and leaves plenty to the viewer’s imagination. Browse through these top-class examples to see how it’s done.
Example by Rafael Monteiro Bicalho
Example by Alexander Jackson
Example by BIG MOUTH
22. Graffiti Character Illustrations
Graffiti art and street art, in general, is flying high in the popularity stakes and one can see why. Imaginative and without limits it’s edgy and memorable and often very, very clever. If you’ve got the type of brand that these images suit then graffiti character illustration offers endless possibilities to get your image out there. Here are some cracking examples.
Example by ILUSTRONAUTA ok
Example by Thunder Rockets
Example by Andrew Derr
Example by Alex Garcia
23. Low Poly Character Illustrations
Polygon design trends in character illustration, add dimension and simplification but can still be complex and exciting. Sharp lines and shapes form in angular facades are energetic and added shading and color make them pop from either page or screen. Here are some exceptionally cool examples to get your creative juices rising.
Example by Mohamed Chahin
Example by Carlos Miguel Dioquino
Example by Ralis Daum
Example by Jona Dinges
Example by Wojtek Fus
Example by Nicola Guest
24. Traditional Cartoon Character Illustrations
We all grew up with cartoons, and this tradition is variable enough and flexible enough never to go out of fashion. You can create real personality in character illustration -so many different styles and choices of medium, you’ve got decades of inspiration to choose from. here are a few of our favorites.
Example by Peter Slattery
Example by Lemonade Illustration Agency
Example by Multiple Owners
25. Game Style Character Illustrations
Game Style character illustrations using all the latest technology and combining it with classic fantasy art. Let your imagination run wild, innovative diverse styles inspired by games and inspiring art. For some really show-stopping examples check out this selection.
Example by Brandon Duffy
Example by Misha Sviridenko
Example by Grafit Studio
Example by Inkration Studio
Example by Inkration
26. Cute Character Illustrations
These cute examples of different subjects and styles are all super sweet and friendly. Dominate features are overlarge eyes, large heads and expressive faces. Attractive, heartwarming stuff from different artists showing there soft sides.
Example by Mohamed Chahin
Example by Henrique Athayde
Example by Jerrod Maruyama
Example by Alfrey Davilla
Example by GraphicMama
Example by Artua
27. Realistic Character Illustrations
Realism, hyperrealism, semi-realism. all come under the realistic banner here. Lifelike character illustration, or at least some realistic features and qualities. It’s not photographic quality and nor should it be, the artist puts themselves in the picture and draws out key qualities. A sensational selection to set you sailing.
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by Multiple Owners
Example by MoveRama
Example by Cameron Sagey
28. Watercolor Character Illustrations
Watercolor techniques give character art eternal sensitivity. Digital technology and software packages have brush apps, painting styles and blurring, flowing, dripping, dispersion tools that mean that now you can transfer this traditional technique direct onto the screen. An effortless feel but plenty of flair for style. Our watercolor selection drips with class.
Example by Nipen Bhuyan
Example by Pako
Example by Stella Schiffczyk
Example by Brian Moore
29. Modern Cartoon Character Illustrations
More modern cartoons are modernistic in their artistic design too. Original, different, and spellbinding- the world is your artistic oyster for cartoon illustration – everything goes.
Example by Massimo Di Leo
Example by Dmitry Mòói
Example by Federico Bonifacini
Example by Mili Koey
Example by Alicja Gapinska
30. Pastel Character Illustrations
Pastel color, pastel shades, pastel quality. Character illustrations using pastels or in a pastel style are gentle, soft, soothing, and harmonious in a way that’s difficult to achieve with other styles. They instantly hit that note and tone of peacefulness, restfulness, and give you a comfortable feeling. If this is what you want to portray your character, then you can’t go far wrong with pastel.
Example by Tatiana Obukhovich
Example by Daniela Sosa
Example by zara magumyan
31. Colorful with Stroke Character Illustrations
For color to be effective it doesn’t have to be brash and in-your-face. Check out how well the combination of softer colors works in these simple stroke character illustrations. Carefully used to add contrast to sections but retain the whole.
Example by Marta Konyk
Example by leir
Example by lailai
Example by GraphicMama
Example by Jesse Mann
Example by Jesse Mann
32. Modern Minimalist Character Illustrations
Minimalist character illustration works particularly well when representing concepts and ideas. Giving you enough to know where you stand but being abstract enough for your mind to focus on the meaning behind the character. Strong lines, and simple shapes working together to create something seamless and stunning.
Example by Sushama Patel
Example by Pawel Olek
Example by Jacek Janiczak
Example by Dragon-one
Example by Aliffajar
33. Thin Stroke Character Illustrations
Outlined character illustration strips away any thought or an illusion of realism, but these examples of thin stroke illustration use the outline to hold the figures together. Creating a whole character or bunch of characters whilst keeping a consistency of stroke that defines but doesn’t dominate.
Example by Markus Magnusson
Example by NESTI
Example by Markus Magnusson
34. Flat + Gradient Character Illustrations
Gradient colors are another area where the best apps and software packages are pulling off something very spectacular. Lovely soft gradients, running the shades and hues together, allows and naturalness in even the wildness color palette. Very smooth and immediately engaging illustrations.
Example by Shaf Majeed
Example by Sunny
35. Ink Character Illustrations
Ink character illustrations have always held a very graphic quality, with precision and high definition. These qualities make these kinds of illustrations a perfect match for advertising and eye-catching design. Either fine lines or thick, depending on how bold you wish to be. we’ve picked a few quality examples so why not give this style a whirl.
Example by Pako
Example by Irina Trusova
Example by Yondr Studio
Example by Ceren Burcu Turkan
Example by Pako
36. Chibi Character Illustrations
Chibi is Japanese slang for short or small and usually has positive connotations, the artistic style being characterized by small, cute bodies and large heads. These work extremely well in social media as they have easily recognizable emotions. A combination of cartoon and comic book, lovely and memorable.
Example by Alexandra Dikaia
Example by El Santa Santa
37. Comic Character Illustrations
These examples form a set of typical comic type illustrations. Cartoon designs with strong shadows to create depth, a good feel for patterns, and inventive use of brush strokes, varying the width and therefore the heaviness.
Example by Igor Pavlinski
Example by Mike Anderson
Example by Manuel Cetina
Example by GraphicMama
Final Words
This is a cross-section of ideas and style mixed together in rather vague categories, with the total focus on quality, classy illustration examples. There are so many different styles and nuance within them and that’s what this is all about, be expansive don’t be held back, spread your artistic wings, and really be inspired by these examples of top-class character illustration.
You may also be interested in some of these related articles:
- 300+ Free Illustrations For Your Next Design Project
- 5 Easy Ways to Make Your Own Cartoon Character [For Non-Illustrators]
- 20 Amazing Websites with Illustrations that Will Steal Your Heart
