Model Advice: What to Wear to Casting Calls and Go-Sees

Be sure to check out my other posts on

Should I wear Weave or Braids to a casting for more info!

I recently went to a casting call and I had to come home and write this post, because the girls there were doing too much in terms of their outfits. Large gaudy earrings, too much makeup, hair looking like they were about to do an ad for skittles, and every other major NO was in appearance at this casting call.

Just to clarify the difference between a casting call and a go-see

Casting Call: In the performing arts, casting (or casting call) is a vital pre-production process for selecting the right talent for the project or show.

Go-see: When a client has a specific look that they are going for and you have been selected to be viewed in order to make a final decision on which model to use for the project. Expect that there will be models there who have a similar look to yours.

Rule of thumb when going to casting calls, keep it to the MINIMUM! Your beauty and talent should be the thing they remember the most, not something totally outrageous that you are wearing to stand out.

This means:

VERY light makeup – no pinks, purples, or greens etc on the eyes and no red or hot pink lipstick. Keep your makeup natural, this means a basic face: concealer, foundation (if you need more coverage than concealer), mascara, and a skin tone lipstick or gloss.
Hair should be pulled back and out of the face. Go for a simple ponytail or a bun. If your hair is short, style it in a cute style but make sure you don’t have any bangs covering your face.
Nails – Neutral nails PLEASE! A picture of spongebob should not be all on your nails along with glitter rhinestones, and your social security number, and they should not be extremely long either. This includes the toes. Go for a french manicure, or american manicure or any light pinks or browns. Think flesh tones.
Your clothing should be form fitting, not extremely tight! and should be neutral as well. No need to over accessorize, the casting directors, designers, Make-up artists need to see you as you are. You need to be seen as a blank slate so that can envision what they are able to do with your look.
Shoes – NEVER show up with flats or sneakers on! Its OK to wear them around town on your way to the casting or go-see but once you get to the building where it is being held, you need to change into your heels before you walk in. Often times once you get to the location where they are holding the casting its right there as you enter or step off the elevator, no time to make a second first impression, you are judges as unprofessional if you walk in there without heels on. Consider High heels as a part of your work uniform as a model. When you are in model model mode, you cannot be seen without them, PERIOD

Here are a few visual examples of what I am talking about:

Clothing

Being that it is summer, this is along the lines of what I wear to a casting call. Its cool, simple and shows off the form. When I am running around and I don’t feel like being in my heels a cute pair of flats or flat sandals will work perfectly with this. For a casting call in colder months, I recommend swapping the shorts for a pair of leggings or skinny jeans and the open toe heels for a simple pump or cute high heeled bootie.

CastingCall1 by CompleteBeauty featuring short shorts

Makeup and Nails

These are a few of my faves. I personally don’t wear all of this at one time, but most of the time on a casting call or go-see I’ll have on the concealer, mascara, and lip-gloss. For my nails they are usually done with an american manicure, but in the the event they aren’t I just have them with clear polish.

CastingCall2 by CompleteBeauty on Polyvore.com

MAC Select SPF 15 Foundation, $27
MAC ‘Pro Longwear’ Concealer, $17
Dior ‘Diorshow – Black Out’ Mascara, $25
NARS NARS Lipgloss, $24
Essie Nail Polish, $8
MAC Nail Lacquer, $14

Hair

Have Natural hair like me?

You are in luck, there are different styles that are acceptable for go-sees and castings. These are a few styles that I wear

A simple bun

A simple pony

Again, when in doubt, go with the minimum but keep it sleek and neat. If you have any questions that you want me to address in the next post, comment this post so I can address it.

Thanks! 😀

Posted

June 23, 2011

Beauty, Fashion & Style, Modeling

Alean “@TopModelWithBottles” Elston

Tags:

afro, casting call, Fashion, fro, go-see, Hair, makeup, modeling, nails, shoes, what to wear

Comments

79 responses to “Model Advice: What to Wear to Casting Calls and Go-Sees”

Janie

August 19, 2012

Thank you so much for posting this, I have seen SO many other girls at casting calls dressed like they’re headed for a club, dripping in makeup, mini-skirts, and cheap jewelry. Also, thank you for defining casting call and go-sees. I’ve heard all too many girls use the terms incorrectly, such as; “I’m going to New York for go-sees” which meant “I’m going to New York to knock on the doors of big agencies and hope I get in even though I don’t live in-state” or “I have a casting call for an agency to see if they want to sign me” when they meant “I’m going to XYZ agency’s open call”…it makes the girls sound much more experienced when they can articulate what exactly it is that they’re doing

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  August 21, 2012
  
  Thanks Jamie,
  
  That’s exactly why I wrote it, so people will understand and know! I think a lot of aspiring models say stuff like that not because they don’t know what they are talking about but because they want to seem like they are doing something major… #kanyeshrug
  
  I’m glad you enjoyed my post, there are definitely more like this to come!
  
  Reply
Mila

December 14, 2012

This is great!! Thanks for the advice! One question though–does all of this also apply for a promotional modelling casting call? I was thinking of skinny jeans with a white tank (tight so it shows off my cleavage) and a pair of heals..? Also, should I eliminate all jewelry?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  January 2, 2013
  
  Hi Mila,
  
  For promotional Modeling I’d advise to go with exactly what you mentioned or skinny jeans and a cute top that you might wear to a upscale lounge and wear your hair down. Generally promo modeling casting calls are looking for girls and guys who can look effortlessly sexy and can speak well to represent their brand. Also, be careful about how sexy you attend the casting, there is a line between sexy and slutty, do your best not to cross that line! lol Some companies will specify what they want you to wear to their casting, if they don’t, go with fresh faced natural looking makeup and form fitting clothing, a little bit of cleave never hurt anyone either! 😉 Good Luck!
  
  Reply
Janee

January 4, 2013

Hi, I’m actually going to an open casting call in my city on Sunday and right now I have a straight across, or “Chinese bang” style bang cut in my hair right now. I usually wear my hair pulled into a ponytail or a bun, with my bangs falling into my face, they stop a little above my eyes. Do you suggest I pin my bang back or do think wearing my bangs down will be fine? Also, should I wear false lashes? Please help! Lol I’m a newbie.

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  January 4, 2013
  
  Hi Janee,
  
  Thanks for commenting. I highly advise against wearing bangs because they cover your face. Your face is your moneymaker and if it can’t be seen you’ll make no money! If you can wear a side part with your hair down (and still out of your face) that is an acceptable look also.
  
  Also, don’t wear the false lashes. Go with the absolute minimum in terms of makeup like I discussed in my post. An extra dose of mascara is just enough for your lashes.
  
  Hope this helps!
  
  Good luck on your casting! 🙂
  
  Reply
2. Alean Elston
  
  January 4, 2013
  
  Hi Janee,
  
  Thanks for commenting. I highly advise against wearing bangs because they cover your face. Your face is your moneymaker and if it can’t be seen you’ll make no money! If you can wear a side or center part with your hair down (and still out of your face) that is an acceptable look also. If not, go with the bangs pinned/gelled back very neatly.
  
  Also, don’t wear the false lashes. Go with the absolute minimum in terms of makeup like I discussed in my post. An extra dose of mascara is just enough for your lashes.
  
  Hope this helps!
  
  Good luck on your casting! 🙂
  
  Reply
Aicha Tytgat

January 24, 2013

Hye , first

you’re a really beautifull girl!

I have a casting this saturday and i don’t know what to wear or how to do my hair. It’s really cold where I live so shorts arent’s really an option. My hair is really curly so i’m n ot sure if i should let it loose or should i tie it up ? i added two pictures from me with hair up and hair losse thank u !

Love Aicha Tytgat

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  January 24, 2013
  
  Thanks Aicha, 🙂
  
  The key thing about hair for casting calls is to keep it out of your face. Your face needs to be seen. It’s one of the main things you well be evaluated on for the booking. If you pull the curly hair into a pony tail or pinned up in a cute style or in a bun, it’s fine. If you wear it all out with defined curls it’s fine, just as long as it’s not in your face.
  
  Hope this helps.
  
  Good luck at your casting! 🙂
  
  Reply
D.Louise

February 3, 2013

Great post helped alot just 2 more question’s i have a casting call wednesday and i have really long blonde hair would a pin back leaving my hair down be good? also im 5ft7” and im thinking of going to my casting call in black shorts and white vest top with heels, im really nervous and wondered if that would be acceptable? Thanks xxxxx

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  February 4, 2013
  
  Thanks D. Louise!
  
  That would be a fine hairstyle, just remember to keep the hair our of your face.
  
  As for the shorts, I would advise against it for your height. ONLY because shorts can make you appear shorter, depending on the length of the shorts and the shoes that you pair them with and if you don’t already have long legs. If you were 5’9+, I’d do the shorts, but I don’t know what you look like or your body type so I would suggest wearing Skinny Jeans, Leggings, or a form fitting, short tube dress, (solid color, no designs/patterns) if you want to show your legs, as a safe bet. As for the shirt with the pants/shorts, that should be form fitting as well. I’d stray from the vest top, you want to keep it simple, a fitted tank or tee would be best.
  
  Good luck on your casting!!! 🙂
  
  Reply
  1. D.louise
    
    February 7, 2013
    
    Thank you so much ur support and expertise gave me confidence 😀 xx
    
    Reply
    1. Alean Elston
      
      February 10, 2013
      
      Glad I could help! 🙂
      
      Reply
2. D.louise
  
  February 7, 2013
  
  Never mind i went in shorts and vest top look natural thanks to your information and i was successful on the casting thankssss xx
  
  Reply
Poonie

February 5, 2013

Awesome post!!!!! I thank you sooooo much. Exactly what I needed to know.

Reply
Chanel

February 12, 2013

Hi i am going to a casting call Saturday and they want us to wear an plain well fitted outfit. I plan on wearing a black pencial skirt. What color/typeb of shirt should i wear and shoes. Btw I am 14

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  February 12, 2013
  
  Hi Chanel,
  
  A any solid color, form fitting top. A cami, tank body suit, or fitted short sleeve shirt should be fine. And wear black or nude color pumps/heels 3-4 inches or higher. No wedges.
  
  Good luck at your casting! 🙂
  
  Reply
Caroline

May 26, 2013

Hi! I’ll be going to a casting call in a week or so, and I was wondering, would it be okay if I wore my hair down but curled the ends? Or would it be better if I just left my hair straight as it is now? Oh, and I’ve been wanting to dye my [brown] hair into one of those ‘honey-dipped’ hairstyles with the ends blond-ish, or should i just keep my hair natural? Thank you very much for posting this! And sorry for so many questions ^^;

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  June 4, 2013
  
  Hi Caroline,
  
  I apologize for not getting back with you sooner. Things have been ultra busy with me lately… But in regards to your question…
  
  Its okay to wear the ends curled. If it looks pretty on you and you feel confident in that look by all means you should wear it! As far as the dying your hair, personally, I would wait until after your casting to do any drastic changes to your look. The reason being is that most of the time as a model you are to look naturally pretty and let the client make you up as they see fit. They need to see you as a natural blank slate and if you are already customized it can either hinder or help your chances of being selected. If you are going to color your hair, opt for a solid (natural) color change and/or maybe a few highlights to enhance your skin tone, etc.
  
  Hope that helps 🙂
  
  Reply
Ms De’Jong Monique Model Actor

June 9, 2013

Hello,
In your professional opinion, what is the optimal way to wear African American Hair to a HAIR MODEL casting?
Being that I have natural hair, that can either be straightened or styled curly, I would like to know the best way to wear it to a casting specifically for professionals that care about my Hair as much as my look ?
I have been searching all over the internet trying to find out the best answer and maybe you can help me and many other women.
Thank you!!

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  June 9, 2013
  
  Hi De’Jong,
  
  Thanks for your question.
  
  For a Hair Model Casting you should wear your hair clean and styled simple and easy. If your hair is big enough to wear out in a curly bouncy ‘fro, then wear it out and show your hair off! Most, if not all, hair shows need to see how your hair is so they know how to deal with it and style it for their show or shoot. Having too much product in it or too much manipulation is not ideal as it can mask what the state of your hair/scalp really is.
  
  Personally when I have a casting for a hair show, I wear my hair washed and blow dried straight (no flat iron) then put it up in a loose bun, so that when they need to examine my hair I can take it out and put it back quickly. Or, I wear it washed set it it loose twists and wear a fresh twist out. It all depends on the show.
  
  I hope this helps!
  
  Good luck on your casting! 🙂
  
  Reply
ana

July 10, 2013

hi i have a casting call Saturday and it’s my first. I usually have clip in extension in my hair but they look really natural people always ink it’s my hair. Can i wear my extensions to the casting or will i have to go with my natural hair?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  July 11, 2013
  
  Hi Ana,
  
  I can’t be too specific with my response because I don’t know what the casting is for. Some castings you should go without them and some you should look as naturally pretty as possible, even if you wear a few clip-ins. In general, wear your hair how you feel most confident and make sure it doesn’t block your face.
  
  Good Luck! I hope this helps 🙂
  
  Reply
Brooke Martin

September 3, 2013

Hello Alean! Thank you for this information!! I have a question about going to an open casting call for a talent and modeling agency in Pittsburgh and I guess modeling question, in general. I am 25 years old and 5’1″. I am interested in modeling and know that usually models are much taller than me (5’7″ or taller right?). I wondered if it would still be worth a shot for me to go in for modeling open calls etc. in the event they could still use me (if they liked me!)! Of course, I am emotionally excited and invested when I go for open calls, etc. and hate to put myself through unnecessary heartache as well and waste mine and the agencies’ time, so wanted to know what you thought about this. Thank you!! -Brooke

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  September 5, 2013
  
  Hi Brooke,
  
  Thanks for the comment, sorry I havent responded sooner.
  
  In regards to yur age, modeling isn’t about the age of the model, more so the perception of the age of the model. I wouldn’t let being 25 slow me down from pursuing an agency if that is your goal, but you are 5’1″, that is something that is definitely not the typical model height but that shouldn’t discourage yu as well. Most models that don’t fit the norm for models have to work harder than those that do to prove themselves. Chances are you won’t be on any runways because of your height but that wont stop you from booking other types of work like print, and promotions. I would advise that if you aren’t already working even a little bit as a model you should start by getting som professional pictures done or work promotional events in your area to buildup your modeling resume, also look into video model work and acting. those are places where you are sure to find a lot of success.
  
  Overall, I am not advising that you don’t go to the agency casting call. I think you should go, you never know what division you can fit in and start or further your career. Plus at least you’ll have the experience of going to an open call. If you don’t get offered a contract or an interview, don’t take it personal, this is the time frame of year where they are generally looking to book models for fashion shows, but, find out more about the agency and see what types of feedback you can get from them if they are willing to offer any, so you know what to look forward to having in place in the future with this particular agency or any other agency you may be considering working with.
  
  Good luck, keep me posted!
  
  Reply
Ashleigh

March 12, 2014

hi
Im going to a model search soon and they say we can wear anything where comfortable in including converse, because they are not only looking and my talent and looks but also my personality, should I veer away from the standard out fit or should I wear something that shows my personality?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  March 13, 2014
  
  Hi Ashleigh,
  
  I have never heard of a model casting where they say it is okay to wear sneakers, unless its something for children under 12. I don’t know how old you are or the full details as to what the casting is for so It would be my personal advice is that when you are going anywhere that you are going to be judged as a model, you should look like one, that means wearing heels and form fitting clothing that shows off your figure.
  
  You can certainly still show your personality in a modelesque outfit and be comfortable, but when it comes to modeling its your face and your figure that are major factors in you booking a job, unless you are doing some video modeling that requires you to speak or other interaction to a certain degree, your personality is not really a major factor. If you hide your face and figure, you dramatically lessen your chances of being chosen.
  
  If you want to give more details about the casting so I can really give the proper advice just reply back to this message, if not I hope this helps.
  
  Good luck and keep me posted,
  
  Alean
  
  Reply
Guest

March 21, 2014

Yeesh, Jennifer Lopez in the picture?

Reply
Mei Yue

July 28, 2014

im going for a casting tmr and is wearing a loose white collared shirt and maroon skinny pants okay? and what if i have a bandaged foot, is it okay to wear flipflops? bc it’s for a hair photoshoot, and is it okay to wear circle lenses because they are the only kind i can afford that has a degree. and i dont hve double eyelids is it okay to use double eyelid tape? im sorry i have a lot of questions but pls help ;_; thank you for this post!!

Reply
Mary

August 6, 2014

So Barbizon called me and gave me an interview for their agency and the lady told me to show my personality and that I could wear whatever I want except blue jeans. Everywhere that I have read online says to stay simple and appear as a “canvas”. So I’m confused and don’t know if it is a trick question or if they really want me to dress with personality. I’m really nervous and need help!

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  September 16, 2014
  
  Apologies that I didn’t respond to this sooner, unfortunately for some reason I didn’t get the notification that this comment was posted.
  
  But if it helps, You can still be a canvas and dress with personality. Dress in what makes you confident but make sure its solid colors, no logos, form fitting clothing and add a fashionable shoe, scarf, or sweater (limit to one). Keep makeup and nails light and natural, and wear your hair the best way for your face as long as its out of your face and let your personality shine through!
  
  Reply
dee

September 16, 2014

Hello!
I am going to take my promotional head shots to submit to agencies soon. I see all promo girls usually have long hair and my hair is short (Rihanna short hair cut). Should I take my head shots with short, natural hair or should I take my promotional head shots pictures with my extensions and go to the interview (If I get one) with my short hair and let them know I can work with my natural length or extensions. Or should I go with extensions in.
SOS!
Your blog is so inspiring. I definite go to for me.

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  September 18, 2014
  
  Hi Dee,
  
  Most promo girls have long hair but not all. Depending on the industry and the brand they are representing they usually require them to wear their hair down. It doesn’t mean that their hair has to be long, just be worn down. If you are interested in becoming a Promo Model, you should have a photo that shows of your best smile. Companies want promo models who have a great look, are friendly in appearance, and are approachable. As long as you have a picture or two that reflects that you should be fine.
  
  If you are going to an agency that is reviewing you for fashion commercial and promotional opportunities, then show off pictures that show your versatility, show the pictures of you with various hair lengths.
  
  Hope this helps! Good Luck
  
  Reply
Grace

January 10, 2015

Hi! I’m going for my first modelling casting in a few hours but an stuck between two outfits! Please help me decide! I am stuck between a dark green playsuit with black tights or black high waisted jeans with a black top! Thanks’

Reply
Raven

March 15, 2015

I have a question, do you think I could wear my Bantu knot outs?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  March 15, 2015
  
  You could wear them but I wouldn’t wear them still in the knots, if thats what you’re asking.
  
  Reply
Lindsay Gleys

March 18, 2015

Lot to learn from it, and also more tips
of What to Expect
During a Modeling Audition

Reply
Lily

March 20, 2015

Hi there!
I’m an aspiring model and have naturally curly hair. For photos to bring, should I have photos of me with curly and straight hair? Also, it is better for me to wear my hair curly, straight, or in a pony tail to open calls? What do agencies like better? I haven’t seen any blonde curly haired models so maybe they don’t prefer it?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  March 21, 2015
  
  You should bring photos with you that reflect your ability to emote (smile, fierce, etc.), pictures that show the shape of your body, and that clearly display your face. However your hair is in those pictures, doesn’t matter as long as those things are the main focus and its out of your face.
  
  Agencies like to see you as you are, If your hair is curly, and that’s how you normally wear it, then wear it that way. Just make sure that your hair is out of your face. Don’t come overly made up its a turn off for agents. Hair texture isn’t a concern for agents, it can always be straightened. Just focus on what you wear and be you. 🙂
  
  Reply
Ebony

May 8, 2015

Thank you so much! I am currently going through my closet preparing for a casting call on Sunday. It is actually my first one and I’m very nervous. This was the first blog post that popped up when I googled “how to dress for a casting call”. It was very helpful and the fact that you are natural as well was a bonus : )

Reply
Yolanda

August 3, 2015

Hi! I read your post and thanks because I’m going to an audition today. I have some questions because this is my 1st audition and I really want it: 1st. The character I’m trying out for is supposed to be 5’6-5’9 and I’m only 5’1, should I even still audition?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  August 5, 2015
  
  HI Yolanda,
  
  My apologies for not responding to you sooner. Personally, I wouldn’t have went if I didn’t fit the description. Did you go to the audition?
  
  Reply
  1. Yolanda
    
    August 5, 2015
    
    Yes, I went to the audition. They told me my height didn’t matter, but I was at a disadvantage because I never saw the script, so i had to learn/read it for the 1st time that day.
    I didn’t get the part, but I have another audition coming on Aug 15 and I have the lines for my character, so I’ll practice that and hope to get the part.
    Thanks for responding to my comment and you gave an amazing blog!
    
    Reply
    1. Alean Elston
      
      August 7, 2015
      
      Glad to hear that things went well. Study study study that script!!! and be sure to rehearse in front of someone it really helps for feedback and improvement. and if you don’t have someone watch you do it, take yourself doing it so you can see how your face expressions are and hear how you sound with the emotions of the role. Good Luck! and keep me posted please! 🙂
      
      Reply
      1. Yolanda
        
        August 10, 2015
        
        Thanks for the advice. I’ve been practicing for the role of Nefertiti. I have the audition Saturday, so I’ve been watching Nefertiti movies, reading about her and of course remembering my lines.
        I’m hoping to get that role!
Asia

August 20, 2015

Hey Alean,

Thank you so much for sharing this post. One question I couldn’t find the answer to in all the comments below is about which brands a model wears to a go-see. Should I wear the brand of the client?

More specifically, if I attend the Torrid plus model casting, should I be sure to wear Torrid? How big of a fail would it be if I showed up in something suitable, just not Torrid brand? I can’t really afford to attend the competition and buy something new, and Torrid, to wear. Any advice on how to address this if I am asked who I’m wearing? My thought was to say I am wearing Torrid under my clothes! Think I could get away with it?

All the best,

Asia

Reply
Asia

August 25, 2015

Very, very helpful. Thank you so much. You were totally right. Not a single person asked me where I got what I was wearing. I decided to go with my favorite outfit– a high waisted, full skirt with a high split. I felt beautiful and confident. Little did I know, there would be a catwalk setup for us to strut and I received so much positive feedback from the other contestants. I don’t find out if I was chosen for the campaign until January, but the experience itself was invaluable and I am so glad I took your advice.

All the best,

Asia

Reply
Iliana

October 23, 2015

Hey, lm going to an open call in November in my city and I was wondering is it often required that the model take a portfolio for it?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  November 11, 2015
  
  As a professional model you should have a portfolio ready to do for any and all castings. If you have a portfolio bring it. If you are new to modeling and don’t have a solid portfolio together, bring a picture of yourself to leave behind.
  
  Hope this helps!
  
  Reply
Lexi

December 29, 2015

I know this comment is real late, but I wanted to ask a few questions. Anyone can answer. If you have naturally curly hair would it be ok to straighten it before going to a casting? And.. If you wear colored contacts to enhance your features could you also wear them to a casting?

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  December 29, 2015
  
  Never too late, I posted this blog post literally years ago and there are still questions that I come back to answer! lol
  
  If your hair is naturally curly, it would be okay to straighten it, but I highly advise to wear your hair how you feel most comfortable, curly or straight doesn’t matter as long as you r face can be seen and you are confident in your look. Also, I would advise against the contacts. They need to see you as you are, to know how to properly place you should they decide to work with you.
  
  I hope this helps! 🙂
  
  Reply
Sarah

January 5, 2016

Hey i have casting this cmg sunday. However my face have some scars and white heads and im just wondering if look at all my white heads and all because im sooo not flawless…. Bt im still growing. I knw i have a clean soft skin if i dont have thse pimples last time . So im wondering if they dont rlly care abt the scars because the make up artist are able to do make up fr me next time, or they rlly want clean face girls?:/

Reply
1. Sarah
  
  January 5, 2016
  
  And i planned to cover up with foundatiom and concealer bt u said they wanna see u as u are. So im rlly nt sure. What if i cover up and next time they r shocked to see me face scars
  
  Reply
2. Alean Elston
  
  January 5, 2016
  
  Hi Sarah,
  
  Just a note when you reach out to anyone in this business do not type as if you were texting friends. If I were an agent, I’d be really turned off by your message and eventually delete it. Professionalism is key in every level of conversation when pursuing a career in this business!
  
  Your skin condition will be looked at when you attend a casting, you are being judged on your appearance, it’s the nature of the business. They may ask you about it, they may not, but you should be honest about its condition if asked about it. With that said, if you attend the casting, you should wear makeup to cover the scarring and even out your skin tone. Makeup won’t cover the pimples from being seen it will just take away the color of the scarring or redness, which will still allow you to be seen as a blank canvas. Should you get booked for the job, you should communicate your condition with the person who booked you so they can prepare for production.
  
  Will your skin count against you? it’s possible. It takes more work/resources ($$$ for editing, makeup artists, etc.) to work with a model with problem skin compared to one without them. People in business like to control costs and stay within budget and time constraints and problem skin could hinder that. To increase your chances of being booked in the future, I strongly advise adapting a regimen that will help you achieve smoother skin. Usually a pimple here or there most agents look past it.
  
  I hope this helps.
  
  Reply
Ocean

March 9, 2016

I have a closed casting call, I have no idea what to wear, I have shoulder length hair with a heart shaped face. I live in the tropics, please help.

Reply
1. Alean Elston
  
  March 9, 2016
  
  Not sure how to help, it’s pretty detailed in the blog post, whatever you wear make sure it shows your figure and however you wear your hair just make sure it is out of your face. You know what looks best on you, wear what makes you feel confident within the guidelines on my post.
  
  Good luck!
  
  Reply
  1. Ocean
    
    March 9, 2016
    
    Thank you, I’ll make sure to keep you in the loop and let you know how it went lol.
    
    Reply
Akos

August 13, 2016

Is it okay to go to an agency open call with braids? I could pull them back into a pony tail..but they are also red in colour – It’s not crazy but i dont know if that would count as two strikes.

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1. Alean Elston
  
  August 16, 2016
  
  I personally wouldn’t go to an agency call in braids. The mainstream modeling industry isn’t too flexible on braids and how you show up to that casting is an indication of how you will show up to thier clients which won’t book you with braids because it’s not the look they are going for or its too much work to deal with and they would rather go with a model who’s hair that can style the way they want it. Wear it out in a natural or straightened style and out of your face.
  
  Reply
Adelin

September 11, 2016

I need help on what to wear

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Hloni Miss Nkosi

September 21, 2016

Hey girl thanks for the advice I have a casting this coming Saturday I was wondering if it’s okay to wear a jump suit ?

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1. Alean Elston
  
  October 15, 2016
  
  Personally I wouldn’t. They don’t show your figure.
  
  Reply
Dalila

October 13, 2016

Hi,

Thank you so much for sharing this.It’s so good when you can read some good advice.

I just wanted to ask if every girl that comes to a casting should have a book with her pictures?

Is it really necessary or you can go without it?

Thank you,
Love Dalila

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1. Alean Elston
  
  October 15, 2016
  
  If you have them bring it. It’s part of an experienced models work tools.
  
  If you don’t, bring simple pictures (non professional pictures) that the people a the casting can see how you photograph and one you don’t mind leaving behind.
  
  Reply
Haylee

October 29, 2016

Today at 12:00 I’m going to a modeling CLASS, I have already been interviewed. I am 13 and they told me to bring character shoes (heels) should I wear my heals there of carry them

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Lindsey Bangsberg

November 28, 2016

Hello, I have a casting call with an agency. I am brand new to the business and was wondering what I should bring. I have a some pictures that are a few year old. Should I bring one with my resume attached and should I bring Multiple copies?

Thank you. This was an extremely Helpful post.

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1. Alean Elston
  
  November 30, 2016
  
  Print a few pictures of yourself that they agency can see how you photograph. Wear what is detailed in the post. And bring your personality. If you haven’t done any modeling work before you won’t have a resume to bring, so don’t worry about that. Just bring yourself and a positive attitude and be open with a listening ear to the comments/conversations you have with the agency.
  
  Reply
Danika

January 20, 2017

Hey! Thnk you so much for taking your time to write the article. I have an audition tomorrow for an arts school and im casting for theater. When i read the manual on what my preparation was for the audition, it said there was no specific preparation. So what would i be expecting there??? Also i have natrural wavy hair and i feel like if i straighten it it would look alot neater and i would look like i have more attention so my question is. Should i wear my hair wavy in a ponytail or straight in a ponytail?? Im going for a happier, awakening, alive look.

Thanks -danika

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1. Alean Elston
  
  January 20, 2017
  
  Hi Danika,
  
  I literally have no experience with what it takes to audition at an arts school so I can’t tell you what to expect, but I can assume it would be similar to the professional acting world. Since they haven’t given you any particular direction I would take advantage of that and come prepared with 1 or 2 monologues that you can execute flawlessly and that you can closely relate to. Dress according to that character.
  
  In terms of your hair look go with how you feel the most comfortable just keep it out of your face. Ponytails will always give an “awake” look as they are instant face lifters!
  
  Good luck!
  
  Reply
  1. Danika
    
    January 21, 2017
    
    Thank you so much
    
    Reply
Somto Okoli

January 31, 2017

I have braids in my hair will that affect my chances of modelling, should I just take them out?

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1. Alean Elston
  
  February 6, 2017
  
  Hi Somto!
  
  I actually just wrote a post that answers this very question. Be sure to leave a comment on that post if you have any more questions about it! 🙂
  
  https://aleanelston.com/2017/02/faq-i-have-braidsweave-should-i-wear-it-to-a-casting-modeladvice/ https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a2295fc1317356badda031a52d7f04a9af8a6432cbea868084e712e21d328cc7.png
  
  Reply
The Brettina – Five Things to Know about Social Media Modeling and Industry Modeling

March 20, 2017

[…] a good amount of makeup except for me, because the rule of industry modeling and go-sees is “always come with a fresh face” This is because as a model, unless you are the creative director of your own photo, you are a […]

Reply
Queen Jazzy

May 4, 2017

Hi

I have casting next week and i really need some advice for Runway. Its a Fashion week and i am confused of what to wear and a perfect heels. Do i need to be fashionable?

Thanks i hope you will give me some advice.

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1. Alean Elston
  
  May 4, 2017
  
  I’m not sure what confuses you about what to wear…the post is pretty detailed.
  
  As mentioned in the post, Wear form fitting clothes without logos or patterns, skinny jeans are ok. don’t over accessorize, A heel that is 3 inches or higher, no platform, natural looking makeup, and keep your hair out of your face.
  
  Please let me know Exactly what was unclear so I can help.
  
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Sinead Watton

September 10, 2017

Hey Alean,
I don’t know how familiar you are with plus size modelling, there is an open casting for a plus size agency. Its very open. I think the age range is 18 to 65. I looked at the details and it said that they would take pictures on the day, no need to bring in a portfolio etc. However in January, I did a vintage lingerie shoot for my friend’s business. I have two photo’s from that. Should I copy them and bring them with me? (Obviously I would get them copied professionally.)
Hope to hear from you soon.
Regards
Sinead

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Stacey D’Nae Lysaght

September 29, 2017

OMG THIS HELPED SO MUCH!! thank you thank you!!!

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Kiara

January 15, 2018

I am a natural black woman interested in print modeling. Is it okay if I wear box braids when I take pictures to add to my portfolio? Or what should I do to my hair when I take photos?

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1. Alean Elston
  
  January 16, 2018
  
  Hi Kiara,
  
  If this is your first photoshoot, I would advise against box braids for your shoot as a model. Your first shoot should reflect you in your best “natural” look and how you look on a everyday day basis. Show off that natural hair!
  
  I have a blog post related to this topic. It talks about wearing them to castings but my feelings are the same for a shoot.
  
  https://aleanelston.com/2017/02/faq-i-have-braidsweave-should-i-wear-it-to-a-casting-modeladvice/
  
  If you are further along in building your portfolio it would be fine to have 2 maybe 3 shots with braids but they shouldn’t be in the majority of your book. The purpose of a portfolio is to show your versatility so your pictures shouldn’t all look the same, but the key ones that will get you booked are the crisp straight to the point looks that give a creative director insight how to best use you in their photo projects.
  
  Good luck!
  
  Reply