We sat down with illustrator and designer Nephthys Foster, whose joyful, nostalgia-tinged work celebrates softness, sisterhood, and everyday magic. From her signature colour palette to the way fashion and homeware influence her art, Nephthys lets us into her creative world—and her wardrobe.
You describe your work as a celebration of identity, storytelling, and joy. Can you tell us a little about your journey into illustration and how your style developed?
It all started when I moved into my first home and couldn’t find any art that felt quite right, so I began painting my own pieces. They reflected the little things I love and the kind of home I wanted to create. My style has changed a lot over the last three years, but the message has stayed the same – celebrating small, joyful moments.
We love the way your pieces feel both nostalgic and fresh. What are some of the biggest influences that shape your creative world?
Fashion and homeware are big ones. I’m always drawn to pattern, texture, and colour. I usually build a design from those visual details. And food always finds its way in too, both for how it looks and how it makes you feel.
Many of your artworks explore themes of softness, sisterhood, and self-expression. How does your identity inform your work, and what do you hope others take away from it?
A lot of what I create is about connection and everyday joy. I hope people feel something when they see my work, whether it’s comfort, nostalgia, or just a bit of fun. If it makes someone smile or feel seen, that’s everything.
Poppy Stripe Clara Dress
Your work often evokes a sense of home and heritage. Are there any early creative memories or family influences that helped shape your path?
Definitely. We didn’t have a lot growing up, but my parents always encouraged self-expression. Creativity showed up in little ways - like reworking charity shop clothes with my mum or making things from whatever we had around. That freedom to experiment really stayed with me.
Sky Lily Stripe Evelyn Dress
As a fellow champion of slow, considered design, how do you view the relationship between fashion and illustration? Do the two inspire each other for you?
Fashion and illustration both allow for creativity and self-expression. I’m often inspired by patterns and textures - stripes, gingham, bold prints. Those details naturally make their way into my work. I also find that the colours and shapes I wear often reflect what I’m painting, so they definitely influence each other.
Your colour palette is instantly recognisable – so joyful and inviting. Do you have any favourite colours or motifs you return to again and again?
Working as a nanny shaped how I see colour. Kids create so freely and without overthinking, and I try to keep that same playfulness in my work. I love all colours, but I do tend to sneak a pair of lips into a lot of my pieces. It’s become a bit of a signature.
Vintage Ditsy Nettie Blouse
When it comes to getting dressed, how would you describe your personal style? What pieces make you feel most like yourself?
I’ve got lots of versions of myself, but most days I’m in dungarees. I don’t stick to one style, and I love trying out new looks. Anything colourful and bold makes me feel like me!
We talk a lot at Pink City Prints about clothes that lift your mood. Do you have a go-to outfit or accessory that always makes you feel good?
Big chunky charm necklaces always lift my mood. They just make everything feel more fun!
Scalloped Cherry Romy Jacket, Trousers, Bucket Hat
Our new summer collection is all about colour, craftsmanship, and pieces that make you feel good. Any favourites? How would you style them?
The scalloped cherry trousers are my favourite. I’d pair them with a plain white shirt or tee and a little heel. That’ll be my go-to look for rooftop bars this summer.
What’s next for you – anything exciting you’re working on that you can share with us?
I’m starting workshops in June and finally opening up my studio. People will be able to come and personalise tote bags with my artwork, which I’m really looking forward to. We’ve got a new summer collection launching in July… and then the countdown to Christmas begins!
Follow: @nephthysillustrated
