Acting : Actor’s Closet: Self-Tape Clothing To Have On Hand by Tammy Hunt

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