What to Wear to a Casting Call or Open Call

The most important thing to remember when you’re trying out at a casting call or open call is to keep it simple. The model agency and those in charge of casting the runway show or advertising campaign aren’t necessarily interested in seeing all your personality quirks, but in your facial structure and body shape.

Wear a simple pair of dark fitted jeans, shorts or a mini skirt on the bottom; nothing with too much volume or loads of pockets as this is distracting. Men should wear dark fitted jeans too. Choose to wear a vest top or short-sleeved t-shirt on top, either with a scoop neck or v neck to show your collarbones and décolletage. Stick with simple, plain colors, no logos or patterns: black and white are great but you could choose a more vibrant color instead, as long as it’s flattering to your skin tone.

When it comes to shoes, men should stick to plain, semi-formal dress shoes or simple canvas lace-ups. For girls, heels are essential. Nude or black pumps with at least a 2.5 inch heel are perfect – but make sure the heel is slim, since chunky or stacked heels will clunk when you walk, and you want to look elegant and graceful.

Female models will find a good strapless nude bra and matching thong come in handy for casting calls, since they don’t show under any clothes. Men should stick to a pair of plain black or white boxers or briefs. Some agencies or casting directors will want to see how your body looks, so take a plain black bikini with you just in case.

Accessories should be kept minimal, or preferably not worn at all. You could wear a small ring, little stud earrings or a delicate chain necklace if you feel naked without jewelry, but definitely no statement pieces.

Makeup should be minimal, too. Wear a small amount of concealer if you need it, and a touch of mascara or light lip gloss. Keep it looking as natural as possible, no bold lipstick or smokey eyes, since the agency will want to see you as a blank slate to project their ideas onto. Don’t forget to remove your nail polish, or wear a plain nude color, and to tie your hair up into a pony tail. Pony tails are preferred to buns or plaits as you can still see the length without your hair getting in the way of your face and obscuring your profile.

Good luck!