This month in Auditioning – on the line! I hang up the stress that goes into the never- ending ritual of choosing the perfect audition togs to wear. I find the best way to select your audition wardrobe would be to follow these basic and simple tips.
Be comfortable and confident – Whether you are going to a dance or singing call or auditioning for a straight play, your audition wear should most importantly allow you feel comfortable, confident and secure. If you are uncomfortable and don’t feel good about what you are wearing, you can sabotage your audition by taking focus away from your talents, skills, and abilities. Your clothes should allow you to breath, be task appropriate and of course reflect any specific requests listed in the audition notice.
Dress for your body type – Your audition clothes should first and foremost fit. Overly baggy, or clothes that are too tight, once again draws attention away from what you are there to do. Select clothes that are flattering to your physique. They should accent, or not, your attributes with respect and taste. There are so many ways to disguise imperfections and highlight one’s attributes, so you can look the best you can possibly look. When you walk in the door, you are assessed right away, starting with how you look and with what you are wearing. Remember that!
No costumes or specialty outfits – Unless you are specifically asked to dress for the part or role you are auditioning for, I think it best to be fairly neutral in your clothing choices. Coming dressed in “character” can sometimes hinder your audition, if for example, you are thrown a curve by the Director who now would like to hear you read for the “ingénue” instead of the “second banana” you came dressed as. Most casting folk can visualize what you might look like in character, and if not, they will call you back and ask you to wear something different or more in line with the role you are being considered for. Initially, I suggest, leave your options open.
Be versatile – If you are a dancer, have an outer layer you can easily and quickly overdress your dance look. For example: woman – a simple dress you can easily throw over your dance attire, men – a pair of slacks and button down or polo type shirt. If you are a singer, you will want clothes that are also adaptable. You should always be prepared to move in whatever you are wearing as a rule of thumb, as often there is not time given to change. Shoes should factor in as well and be versatile enough to coordinate with dance clothes or regular dress. There are great dance shoes out there that serve this purpose well.
Be smart – build your audition wardrobe and learn what gets attention, what works, what does not work, what serves you and how your audition wear can best enhance you and your artistic sensibility. Sometimes, what looks great when you go out with friends isn’t always the best choice for your auditions. Just as a business suit for an executive serves that profession, the actor should also create a wardrobe that supports his or her craft.
My best advise
Fashion and clothing trends change daily, but a good auditioning outfit can serve you for many years. Make it simple for yourself, discover what best works for you and repeat that style or look over and over. You will know when it is time for an update. A great outfit can bring you attention, and implant a specific memory in the heads of those casting. How often do you hear, “get the girl in that red dress”. They might not always remember your name, but they will always remember that “red dress”. Your audition clothes shouldn’t define you, but they should certainly enhance and represent your persona in a flattering and supportive way. Fill your Auditioning – one the line! closet well and you will be dressed for success at every audition.
COMING NEXT MONTH:
I nailed my audition – why didn’t I get the job?
Yes, I very agree with this point “Dress for your body type – Your audition clothes should first and foremost fit. Overly baggy, or clothes that are too tight, once again draws attention away from what you are there to do. Select clothes that are flattering to your physique. They should accent, or not, your attributes with respect and taste. There are so many ways to disguise imperfections and highlight one’s attributes, so you can look the best you can possibly look. When you walk in the door, you are assessed right away, starting with how you look and with what you are wearing. Remember that!” Most of the people do not know about it. I have got some new tips and information about fashion audition. Hope this will help me out. By the way, thanks a lot for sharing such great stuff.