✏️ Draw This In Your Style (DTIYS): A Trend That’s More Than Just a Trend

[5-7 min read]
If you’ve spent any time in the art community on Instagram, TikTok, or even YouTube lately, you’ve probably come across a post titled “DTIYS.” It’s short for Draw This In Your Style, and it’s one of the most heartwarming and creativity-sparking trends to ever sweep through the online art world.

But what exactly is a DTIYS—and why is it such a big deal?

Let me explain.

What is DTIYS?

A Draw This In Your Style challenge is when an artist shares their original drawing or character and invites others to recreate it in their own unique art style. The original post often comes with a prompt like:

“DTIYS challenge! Use this image as a reference and make it yours—
tag me when you do!”

The fun part? Everyone interprets the same image in totally different ways. Some artists turn the character into something super detailed and realistic, others go all out with whimsical, pastel cartoon styles (I love those, of course 🥺✨). It’s like watching a magical transformation happen over and over again—with each version shining in its own special way.

Why the Art Community Loves It

There are a few reasons why DTIYS has become such a huge trend, and I think they say a lot about the heart of the art community:

1. It brings people together.
   DTIYS challenges are like open invites to connect. You get to interact with artists you admire, support fellow creatives, and discover new art styles you may never have seen otherwise. It feels like a digital group hug sometimes. 🫶

2. It’s a celebration of individuality.
   Even though everyone starts with the same prompt, every DTIYS entry is different—and that’s the beauty of it. It’s a celebration of what makes each artist’s style theirs. There's no pressure to "match" the original—just to have fun with it.

3. It helps build confidence.
   If you’re someone (like me!) who can sometimes second-guess your art, DTIYS challenges are a lovely way to practice, try new things, and feel proud of your take on something. It reminds us that there’s no “wrong” way to draw.

4. It inspires. Like, a lot.
   Seeing a single concept reimagined in 100+ ways? That’s the kind of creative energy that makes you want to pick up your pencil and join in.

Why DTIYS Feels Meaningful to Me

As someone who draws in a soft and kawaii style, I’ve always felt that art is about connection. That’s why I find DTIYS so special—it takes a solitary activity like drawing and turns it into something communal and joyful.

It’s not about competing. It’s not about perfection.
It’s about expression.
It’s about belonging.
And it’s about having fun—together.

How to Join a DTIYS

• Find one you love. Search hashtags like #DTIYS or #dtiyschallenge on Instagram or TikTok.
• Make it your own. Use the original artist’s drawing as a base, and let your style shine!
• Tag the original artist. Most creators love seeing what you made and will share or comment.
• Be kind. To others and to yourself. Your style is your superpower.

And who knows—maybe I’ll host a lilalicreates DTIYS soon… 👀💜

Have you ever joined a DTIYS challenge? Or would you like me to host one? Let me know in the comments, or DM me on Instagram @lilalicreates!
In the meantime, stay curious, stay soft, and keep drawing what makes your heart smile.