![](https://www.stage32.com/sites/stage32.com/files/imagecache/1000_x/photos/3239511301931674235_16800450407956.jpg)
It can be incredibly handy to have certain clothing items for self-tapes.
Keeping a small portion of your closet devoted to clothes for auditioning that are kept clean and pressed can save time and panic later.
Here are just a few to consider..
Basic Commercial:
Before getting into character types, it’s important to have a few basics.
For commercial auditions, this will typically be something in a solid color, and on the more cheerful side.
Think of the “family friendly" version of you.
Basic Theatrical:
Same idea as commercial, but a more serious look.
This might mean darker or more muted colors, possibly longer sleeves, something that makes you feel grounded.
- Mom/Dad:
Having a parental look will go a long way for commercial auditions and day players.
A solid cardigan or polo shirt you can throw on to look approachable and relatable can easily suggest the role. Maybe have a pair of glasses handy. You want a slightly more conservative look for this one.
- Flirty/Seductive:
If it’s in your wheelhouse, having a flirty ingenue or vampy look might be something to consider. It’s a fine line to walk, as you still want to look professional. Hair and makeup can also go a long way here.
- Dystopian/Gritty:
Get yourself that grungy gray tank top or noticeably worn tee. Having an appropriately lived-in looking jacket (army green, brown, or other darker earth tones) might also be a good idea.
- Professional White Collar, putting together a look with a blazer or suit with a tie can suggest a lawyer, CEO, detective, accountant or any type of white-collar professional.
- Professional Blue Collar, on the other side of the spectrum, a nice denim shirt that you can roll up the sleeves can easily transform you into a farmer, hometown clerk, etc.
- Scrubs, bring on the medical dramas! If you don’t have actual scrubs (though they can often be found in uniform stores) a solid color v-neck shirt can suggest a nurse or technician. A lab coat might be good to have on hand if you can find one.
#actor #audition #selftape #wardrobe
2 people like this
Great advice!
3 people like this
Tammy Hunt, I love how you broke these suggestions down into character and audition types. This is such a great post, thank you!
4 people like this
Great tips! Thanks!
3 people like this
This is great advice, Tammy. Thanks for sharing. I also recommend watching Marin Hope’s Stage 32 webinar on how to best execute self tape auditions. Here’s a link so you can check it out: https://www.stage32.com/webinars/Actors-A-Casting-Director-Shares-How-to...
2 people like this
Alexandra Shields, I 100% second your advice! Whenever we're looking for costumes for our own projects, or even to update our personal wardrobes for specific needs, my husband and I love to hit up Goodwill, thrift stores, Nordstrom Rack, and Marshalls for deals on great quality eclectic choices.
2 people like this
Great tips! Self taping is a serious undertaking and this is all valuable advice.
2 people like this
Alexandra Shields, thats amazing! Moira's outfits were so iconic and most people wouldn't assume that they're mostly thrifted. I love that.