What to wear for modeling headshots

The safest clothing for modeling headshots is a plain, close-fitting top in a solid, neutral color, with minimal jewelry and no visible logos. Choose something that keeps attention on your face, shows your neck and shoulders, and reflects how you look now.

Follow the agency's instructions if they differ. Some agencies ask for simple digitals rather than polished professional headshots. IMG Models, for example, says applicants under 18 should submit natural daylight snapshots without makeup.

Best Clothing for Modeling Headshots at a Glance

Clothing choice	Recommendation
Top	Fitted T-shirt, tank top, crew neck, scoop neck or modest V-neck
Colors	Black, charcoal, navy, cream, white or muted earth tones
Fit	Close-fitting without pulling, bunching or hiding your shape
Patterns	Solid colors are safest
Logos	Avoid visible logos, slogans and brand graphics
Jewelry	Remove statement jewelry and keep accessories minimal
Layers	Bring one simple jacket or fitted layer only if requested
Bottoms for full-body photos	Plain jeans, fitted trousers, leggings or simple shorts
Shoes	Clean, simple shoes, flats or neutral sneakers unless the brief says otherwise

1. Wear a Simple, Solid-Colored Top

A plain fitted top frames your face without competing with it. Good choices include:

• A black, charcoal or navy crew-neck T-shirt
• A plain white or cream T-shirt
• A fitted tank top with secure straps
• A simple long-sleeve top
• A modest scoop neck or V-neck
• A plain bodysuit for full-body modeling digitals

The neckline matters because a modeling headshot usually includes your head, neck and shoulders. A clean neckline keeps your jawline and shoulders visible.

Choose the color with the background in mind. A dark top can work well against a light background, while cream, gray or another muted color may stand out better against a dark background. Avoid wearing a top that nearly disappears into the backdrop.

2. Choose Clothing That Fits Close to the Body

Wear clothing that follows your shape without feeling uncomfortable or overly revealing. Loose sweaters, oversized hoodies and bulky layers can hide your proportions and create folds that distract from the image.

Fitted does not mean skin-tight. The goal is a clean outline around your shoulders, neck and upper torso.

For agency digitals or full-body photos, common choices include:

• A fitted plain T-shirt with jeans
• A tank top with fitted trousers
• A simple bodysuit
• Leggings or clean, close-fitting pants
• A plain sports top for fitness modeling, if it suits the market

Central Casting recommends neutral, form-fitting clothing and minimal makeup for profile photos so casting teams can see the person being considered clearly.

3. Avoid Logos, Slogans and Busy Patterns

Do not wear clothing with:

• Large brand logos
• Text or slogans
• Plaid, stripes or tight geometric patterns
• Sequins, glitter or reflective details
• Large graphics
• Distracting ruffles or oversized collars

The clothing should support the photograph, not become its subject. Branded or highly decorative pieces can make the image look like an outfit photo rather than a clear representation of you.

4. Keep Jewelry and Accessories Minimal

Remove anything that pulls attention away from your face. That usually includes:

• Large earrings
• Statement necklaces
• Oversized watches
• Hats and sunglasses
• Large hair accessories
• Multiple rings or bracelets

Small, simple earrings can work for a polished commercial headshot. Agency digitals usually look best without accessories. If you have piercings, follow the agency's or photographer's instructions rather than removing them automatically.

5. Dress Differently for Agency Digitals and Portfolio Headshots

The best outfit depends on the type of modeling photo you are taking.

For Agency Digitals

Keep the outfit as simple as possible:

• Plain fitted top
• Simple fitted jeans or trousers if the photo extends below the waist
• Little or no makeup
• Natural hair
• No distracting accessories
• Clean, neutral shoes for full-body photos

Agency digitals are reference photos, not fashion portraits. They should show your current appearance clearly. IMG Models states that professional photos are not necessary for under-18 applications and asks applicants to submit natural snapshots without makeup.

For a Professional Portfolio Headshot

You can add some polish while keeping the clothing understated:

• A well-fitted knit top
• A clean blazer over a plain shirt
• A simple structured top
• A subtle color that complements your skin tone
• Minimal makeup and controlled hair styling

Keep the result recognizably you. A portfolio headshot does not need to become an editorial fashion image unless the photographer or client requests that style.

Outfit Suggestions by Modeling Category

Fashion Modeling

Choose a fitted outfit that makes your bone structure and proportions easy to assess:

• Black tank top with fitted black trousers
• Plain T-shirt with straight-leg jeans
• Simple bodysuit with minimal styling

Skip dramatic styling and excessive accessories unless the shoot is specifically for an editorial portfolio.

Commercial Modeling

Commercial headshots can look slightly warmer and more approachable. Consider:

• A solid-color T-shirt
• A simple blouse or knit top
• A casual button-down shirt
• Clean denim with a fitted top

The outfit can reflect the type of advertising work you want, but your face should remain the main focus.

Fitness Modeling

Wear clean, well-fitting activewear that suits the category:

• Plain sports top
• Fitted athletic T-shirt
• Leggings, shorts or training pants
• Clean neutral sneakers for full-body photos

Avoid heavily branded gym clothes unless the brief is for that brand.

Male Modeling

Reliable options include:

• Fitted crew-neck T-shirt
• Plain henley
• Simple button-down shirt worn open over a T-shirt
• Fitted jeans or trousers for full-body photos

Avoid bulky jackets, oversized shirts and large logos. Keep facial hair consistent with the look you want agencies or clients to consider.

Nonbinary and Gender-Diverse Models

Choose the outfit that best represents the modeling market you are targeting. A fitted T-shirt, tank top, knit top, button-down shirt or bodysuit can all work.

Focus on a clear neckline, an unobstructed face and clothing that accurately reflects your current presentation.

What Should You Bring to the Session?

Bring two or three simple outfit options instead of an entire wardrobe:

1. A dark solid top, such as black, charcoal or navy
2. A light or mid-tone solid top
3. A fitted option suited to your modeling category
4. Simple full-body clothing if digitals are required
5. A lint roller
6. A hair tie or clips
7. A small amount of powder or lip balm for shine and dryness

Avoid wearing tight clothing immediately before the shoot if it leaves visible marks on your shoulders, waist or skin.

What Not to Wear for Modeling Headshots

Avoid clothing that:

• Is oversized or heavily wrinkled
• Looks visibly worn
• Is strapless and makes the crop look incomplete
• Has a high collar that hides your neck
• Has a low neckline that dominates the image
• Is sheer
• Restricts your movement
• Comes with strong perfume or another scent that may cause discomfort in a close studio setting

The Safest Default Outfit

If you are unsure what to wear, choose a clean, fitted black or charcoal T-shirt with simple jeans or trousers, minimal accessories and natural hair.

Bring a second plain top in a lighter color in case the photographer recommends more contrast with the background. Before submitting photos, check the agency's exact requirements. IMG Models also warns applicants that it does not request nude or lingerie photos and does not require payment to apply.