Headshot Wardrobe Guide
Here’s a guide to wardrobe pieces for various character types to ensure your headshots convey the right vibe. These are general recommendations, but the key is keeping it simple so the focus stays on you.
Wardrobe - Headshot Sessions
Number one piece of advice is to know your type(s) and study what the same type of characters wear from the television shows, movies and commercials that you, your type, will be auditioning for. Do you own articles of clothing as such? If you do, then there will be no question whether you are dressed right for the role. If you do not, invest in just a few pieces as they will more than likely be frequently used for your auditioning purposes.
Your clothes should be wrinkle-free and without stains, frays and holes. Dress or business attire should be dry-cleaned.
Headshots require very minimal in terms of accessories and you never want to wear anything distracting. However a few earrings, necklaces, and bracelets may add to your image.
Varying necklines, shirt styles and having multiple layering options are key for a strong headshot wardrobe. Have different color options but avoid overly bright tones and shirts that lack texture.
Large logos and excessive patterns often do NOT work. However small patterns, polka dots and plaid tend to work well. Graphic tee’s only work as a layering piece under another shirt or jacket.
I do not recommend wearing any hats for a headshot session unless it is for a specific character type.
Clothing that’s too worn often does not photograph well.
Pants and shoes are not photographed during headshots as you are photographed from the waist up. Wearing a nice pair of dark denim jeans and casual comfortable shoes are best.
It is important that woman bring various bras that will work with your various shirt styles – strapless, well fitted, and flesh toned bras are a must.
Having about three shirts for every look is key.
1. Girl/Guy/Person Next Door
Friendly, approachable, and grounded. Ideal for relatable, everyday characters.
Feminine:
Casual, well-fitted tops like sweaters, plain tees, or button-downs in neutral tones.
Jeans or a simple skirt if visible.
Masculine:
Fitted polos, plain T-shirts, or casual button-downs in soft colors (e.g., light blue, beige, or gray).
Expression
Warm, easy smile or a neutral, thoughtful look with inviting eyes. Think relatable and trustworthy.
2. Romantic
Charming, warm, and approachable. This type is suited for love interests in dramas or rom-coms.
Feminine:
Soft, romantic blouses or dresses in pastel, jewel, or earth tones (e.g., blush, teal, wine).
Simple, elegant necklines (V-neck or scoop).
Masculine:
Fitted shirts or sweaters in warm colors (e.g., light gray, soft blue, or burgundy).
A relaxed blazer for a polished yet approachable look.
Expression
Warm, genuine smile or a subtle, thoughtful look with softness in the eyes.
3. Sweet and Innocent
Soft, gentle, and endearing. Ideal for pure-hearted or idealistic characters.
Feminine:
Light blouses, flowy dresses, or sweaters in pastel or soft neutral colors (e.g., blush, cream, baby blue).
Subtle patterns like florals or lace details.
Masculine:
Collared shirts, sweaters, or T-shirts in light, muted tones (e.g., pale gray, light blue, soft green).
Relaxed fits, not overly tailored.
Expression
Warm, genuine smile or a wide-eyed, hopeful gaze. Think open and approachable.
4. Quirky and Playful
Energetic, charming, and a little awkward. Perfect for fun, offbeat roles in comedies or rom-coms.
Feminine:
Fun, colorful tops or vintage-inspired pieces (e.g., polka dots, stripes, or textured knits).
Light cardigans or suspenders add personality.
Masculine:
Casual button-downs or T-shirts with playful patterns (e.g., small checks, subtle graphics).
Layer with a cardigan or casual blazer for depth.
Expression
Bright, mischievous smile or a curious, playful look. Think spontaneous and fun.
5. Comedy Lead
Playful, witty, and relatable. Ideal for leads in rom-coms, sitcoms, or light-hearted films.
Feminine:
Fun, colorful tops or sweaters (e.g., mustard, coral, or teal).
Soft textures like cotton or knits add approachability.
Masculine:
Casual, solid-colored T-shirts, polos, or button-downs in light colors.
Layer with a relaxed blazer or cardigan.
Expression
Bright smile, a cheeky grin, or a slightly raised eyebrow to add charm and personality.
6. Wide-Eyed Dreamer
Imaginative, naive, and full of wonder. Ideal for characters who are discovering the world or pursuing big aspirations.
Feminine:
Simple tops or dresses in soft fabrics and earthy tones (e.g., sage, beige, light yellow).
Avoid anything too polished; stick to casual and natural styles.
Masculine:
Henleys, simple T-shirts, or button-downs in light neutrals.
Consider layering with a casual scarf or lightweight jacket for added warmth.
Expression
A soft, curious smile or an awe-inspired gaze. Think innocent wonder.
7. Vulnerable and Sensitive
Gentle, emotional, and introspective. Perfect for dramatic roles with heartfelt stories.
Feminine:
Simple, understated tops or sweaters in muted tones like gray, dusty pink, or cream.
Delicate fabrics like cotton or soft knits.
Masculine:
Plain, fitted sweaters or T-shirts in neutral colors like beige, white, or charcoal.
Expression
Soft, contemplative gaze or a subtle, introspective smile. Think gentle and heartfelt.
8. Underdog/Relatable Hero
Grounded, earnest, and unassuming. Ideal for roles where the lead is “one of us” who rises above challenges.
Feminine and Masculine:
Casual, neutral tops like a simple T-shirt, sweater, or Henley in muted tones.
Add light layers like cardigans or jackets for depth.
Expression
A hopeful, determined look with warmth in the eyes. A gentle smile works well.
9. Action Hero/Adventurer
Confident, bold, and dynamic. Ideal for action movies, thrillers, or heroic protagonists.
Feminine:
Fitted jackets (leather, utility, or bomber) over a tank top or plain tee.
Dark or neutral tones like black, olive, or charcoal.
Masculine:
Leather jackets, Henleys, or rugged button-downs.
Dark jeans or muted cargo shirts for texture.
Expression
Intense, focused gaze or a subtle smirk to convey capability and confidence.
10. Anti-Hero
Mysterious, flawed, and brooding. Ideal for morally ambiguous or darker protagonists.
Feminine:
Dark, moody tops or jackets in black, gray, or deep red.
Leather jackets or textured fabrics for depth.
Masculine:
Leather or bomber jackets over neutral or dark tops.
Layer with muted sweaters or Henleys for a rugged vibe.
Expression
Intense, shadowed gaze with furrowed brows or a faint smirk.
11. Classic Drama Protagonist
Complex, layered, and grounded. Suited for roles in serious dramas or prestige projects.
Feminine:
Simple, structured blouses or sweaters in muted tones (e.g., navy, beige, or forest green).
A blazer or cardigan adds depth without distraction.
Masculine:
Neutral button-downs, sweaters, or jackets in dark or earthy colors.
Stick with clean lines and understated style.
Expression
Serious or contemplative, with intensity in the eyes. Avoid big smiles but maintain warmth.
12. Intellectual/Professional Lead
Smart, composed, and authoritative. Suitable for lawyers, doctors, or corporate protagonists.
Feminine:
Tailored blazers in dark or neutral colors over a fitted top.
Structured dresses with clean lines in navy, black, or gray.
Masculine:
Crisp button-down shirts or suits in dark, muted tones.
Keep patterns minimal (e.g., thin stripes).
Expression
Neutral, focused gaze with slight warmth in the eyes. A subtle smile can balance authority with approachability.
13. Idealistic Activist
Passionate, driven, and optimistic. Suited for socially conscious roles.
Feminine:
Simple tops or jackets in earthy, natural tones (e.g., olive, rust, or cream).
Layering with a scarf or vest can add depth.
Masculine:
Plain T-shirts or lightweight jackets in muted greens, browns, or blues.
Expression
A determined gaze or soft smile with bright, hopeful eyes. Think inspired and strong-willed.
14. Period Drama Lead
Elegant, timeless, and poised. Perfect for historical or fantasy settings.
Feminine:
Dresses or blouses with classic, modest cuts in neutral or rich tones.
Avoid overly modern styles or patterns.
Masculine:
Crisp shirts with high collars or jackets that hint at vintage style.
Earth tones or muted fabrics work best.
Expression
A soft, distant gaze or a faint, knowing smile to evoke mystery or elegance.
15. Rebellious
Bold, edgy, and defiant. Ideal for spirited roles or coming-of-age stories.
Feminine:
Casual tops with a hint of edge, like graphic tees or plaid shirts.
Leather or denim jackets to add texture.
Masculine:
Dark T-shirts, hoodies, or flannels.
Layer with a denim jacket or simple bomber.
Expression
Intense gaze or a slight smirk. Think independent and spirited.
Additional Tips:
Fit Matters: Clothes should fit well but not be overly tight or loose.
Colors: Choose colors that complement your skin tone.
For cool skin tones: Jewel tones, blues, and grays.
For warm skin tones: Earth tones, olive, and cream.
Avoid Distracting Details: No logos, busy patterns, or distracting designs.
Layer Thoughtfully: Layers like jackets or cardigans can add depth without stealing focus.
Test Looks: Take quick phone shots in your chosen outfits to see how they photograph.
Additional breakdowns:
Person Next Door:
Friend/Sidekick - To differentiate this from the love interest, wear more plain clothing with layers - like a t-shirt with a denim jacket.
Jock - A letterman jacket of course..
Hipster - Think funky/artist and add accessories (but not too distracting) to this one.
Gamer - This is very similar to hipster BUT graphic-t is a must to differentiate it. Think graphic t-shirt with plaid overshirt or a fitted zipup hoodie.
Loveable Loser - Basically a nerdy version of the friend/sidekick. Most of the work is done in the expression.
Fashionista - Think trendy and fashionable. Use of accessories that are on trend but are not distracting.
Boho - Loose, flowy, patterny clothing is best. Funky patterns and bohemian style accessories.
Edgy:
Urban/Gangster - Plaid is awesome for this along with layers, like of a white tank. Anything that is reminiscent of a hip-hop artist works well here.
Biker - Leather jacket is a must and a graphic-t of some sort. Dark colors with accessories like the beanie to help finish the look.
Addict - Dark drab coors and styles. Facial expressions mainly covery this.
Mafia - Key is a black suit jacket with a black button-down shirt. Tie not needed.
Parent:
Blue Collar/BBQ - Light undershirt with a plaid overshirt. Specific accessories where needed.
Suburban - A sweater or a cardigan to differentiate this from the friend look.
Country Club - Think upscale and wealthy. This look can also double for the upscale socialite. Accessorize as usual.
Professional:
Intern - A button down on it’s own or one with a cardigan works for this young professional.
Creative Professional - A blazer to convey professorial but the layer below needs to be fashion forward to convey a creative essence.
Secretary/Assistant - Similar to intern but slightly older version with a button-down and cardigan.
Lawyer/Judge/CEO - A blazer with a more upscale blouse or button-down.
FBI/CIA - A dark or black blazer with either a dark shirt or a crisp white shirt.
Detective - A brown leather jacket instead of black works best. A blazer works for women too.
New Anchor - A blazer and blouse but you shouldn’t look corporate, so explore colors but keep it dark.
Therapist - A loose Boho-like cardigan or a non-corporate brown blazer works really well with accessories.
Doctor/Nurse - This is one of the few times where you’ll may want to use a uniform. Accessories are not necessary but the white lab coat for a doctor and a scrub top for a nurse.
Stress-Free Wardrobe Prep
Do Your Homework: Select your character types and prep corresponding wardrobe options.
Embrace Layers: Layers add depth and versatility to photos.
Don’t Sweat Perfection: Bring multiple options, and let your photographer guide the final selection.
Avoid Busy Patterns: Stick to solids or subtle prints to keep the focus on you.
Test Colors: Choose shades that complement your skin tone and character archetypes.
Key Tip: Accessories matter! They can turn a plain outfit into a fully realized character.
The Final Word
Headshot sessions don’t have to be stressful. They’re a collaborative process. You should always want to pull 2-3 wardrobe options PER LOOK; to determine the best look for you, and your type.