What to Wear to a Model Casting Call
If you're preparing for your first model casting—or even your fiftieth—knowing what to wear can make all the difference. A casting call is your chance to make a strong first impression, and the right outfit helps agents and clients see your potential clearly and professionally.
At The Honolulu City Club, we’ve helped countless new faces break into the industry, and this is one of the most common questions we get. So, here’s your go-to guide on what to wear (and what to skip) when walking into your next casting.
Left to Right: Emma, Ashley Kapau, &. Naomi
✨ Keep It Simple & Clean
When you show up to a casting, the goal is to highlight your natural features—not the outfit. Casting directors want to see you, not a fashion statement.
Recommended Outfit:
Form-fitting black or white top (tank or tee)
Slim-fit jeans or plain black leggings
Minimal or no makeup (just enough to enhance your features)
Clean, styled hair (nothing too elaborate)
Tip: Stick to neutral colors—black, white, grey, denim—so your clothing doesn’t distract from your look.
Kiyomi
👠 The Right Shoes Matter
For female models, a simple pair of black heels (around 3–4 inches) is typically expected, especially for runway or fashion castings. Make sure you can walk comfortably in them!
For male models, clean sneakers or boots are usually fine—keep them neutral and polished.
📏 Fit Over Fashion
Your clothes should show off your body proportions accurately. This helps agents and clients visualize how you’ll wear their clothes or appear on camera.
Avoid:
Baggy clothing
Busy prints
Distracting accessories
Overdone makeup or dramatic hairstyles
Anela
📸 Bring Your Digitals & Portfolio
Along with your outfit, make sure to bring:
A copy of your digitals (or have them ready to send digitally)
A simple portfolio with past work (optional if you're just starting out)
Bonus: These can be shared via slide decks, PDFs, websites, or even a clean Instagram page curated for modeling work.
Want to learn more about what should be in your portfolio or how to make one? Read our blog post!
📌 Dress to Match the Casting
If the casting is for something specific—like athletic wear, swimwear, or lifestyle modeling—read the brief carefully. You may be asked to wear something more specific or bring additional looks.
📌 Final Tips:
Stay hydrated and well-rested the night before
Bring a positive attitude—confidence goes a long way!
Always arrive on time and be ready to listen and take direction
At The Honolulu City Club, we believe in empowering models with the knowledge and tools they need to grow confidently. Whether you’re brand new or building your portfolio, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
