Forums > Model Colloquy > Model Wardrobe Must Haves

Model

IDiivil

Posts: 4615

Los Angeles, California, US

I'm doing a huge overhaul of my modeling wardrobe and was going through my list of must-haves. Since it's on my mind, I figured I'd share on here for everyone to either add to or post their opinions on smile

This list is an attempt to cover as many genres as possible so that, whether you model fashion or glamour or otherwise, it can be relevant to you! Because of this, more genre-specific clothing may be missing from this list (though I added a note towards the bottom to compensate).

Please feel free to add your 2c and/or share what you feel are definite needs in a model's wardrobe ^___^

~

Starting with the most important to least..!
LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING FOR BEFORE YOU GO ON SET smile !!!

Black colored underwear
White colored underwear
Nude colored underwear
- Consider thong options as well in case you wear tight fitting pieces that you don't want panty lines to show through on

Nude or white heels
Black heels
A little bootie or tall boot of some kind for edgier looks

A strapless bra or top (good for strapless dresses for fashion and also good for beauty shots so that the shoulders can remain bare but you don't have to be topless on set)

A robe (good for between sets as a nude model and also good for putting on in general before sitting in the makeup chair so that you can change without pulling a shirt over your face/hair)

Jeans (they must fit well to pop dat booty and flatter your leg lines big_smile !)
Shorts (same as jeans!)

Tank tops or other very standard tops

... and now getting into the pieces that are definitely more wardrobe-optional but things I find that I am still asked for a lot -

Sheer button up / opaque button up shirt (in case sheer is not OK for your modeling genre or style)

Matching bras/underwear sets - especially if you are a glamour based model. Consider stockings/garterbelts for a little extra oomph!

Skirts

In general - anything that fits your genre in case you need to style yourself (like in the case of a designer/stylist not being present)... whether that's latex pieces, vinyl, lace, vintage clothing, designer dresses, etc.

Sunglasses

Hats (wide brimmed, Victorian style, etc)

Necklaces/bracelets/rings/purses for extra accessories to really polish off a look

Apr 10 14 06:36 pm Link

Model

Laura UnBound

Posts: 28745

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

When I started modeling I thought I'd need a huge wardrobe of "normal" clothing, like what's in the list (jeans, skirts, etc)

But the honest truth? Half the time I packed a whole closet worth of clothes...we shot nudes. Nobodies ever asked me to bring and actually managed to shoot me in a plain shirt and jeans.

What I DID need to build was a lingerie and shoe collection (for my type of work anyway, obviously someone going for commercial work would be different)

I HAVE shoot-worthy normal clothes like jeans and dresses and stuff, if someone ever wants it, but I haven't had to set aside shoot-only wardrobe of that nature.

I can count on one hand how many times I've been asked for any sort of jewelry or other accessories. The only times I've ever worn any, they were provided, and all by one photographer who stockpiles wardrobe


Nearly all the shoot accessories I own are black. Everything goes with black, including more black

Apr 10 14 06:43 pm Link

Model

Koryn

Posts: 39496

Boston, Massachusetts, US

Matching lingerie, and shoes or boots, is really all I've ever needed. Arguably, a white button-down shirt, jean shorts that are very, very short (basically with the butt-cheeks exposed), and some neutral-colored sun dress, came in handy.

I used to have a tremendous wardrobe of shoot clothing - two walk-in closets full. I'd pay to check luggage on flights, drag that crap around with me, and people always ended up just wanting nudes. Now, I take one small suitcase and one bag of shoes. If it doesn't fit in the suitcase, it doesn't come with me. No use pulling all that crap around. I sold almost everything I owned on Craigslist in 2011.

Apr 10 14 06:48 pm Link

Model

P I X I E

Posts: 35440

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Laura UnBound wrote:
Everything goes with black, including more black

+infinity

95% of my lingerie (the one I shoot in when I DO wear something, lol) is black, the rest is red.

Apr 10 14 06:48 pm Link

Photographer

Vintagevista

Posts: 11804

Sun City, California, US

At the risk of being a meddling photographer

I would suggest a lighter sundress - it's fast - easy on and off - (works as a coverup in the field where a robe is kinda bulky) - does not leave lines on the skin.

And very easy to shoot for its own sake.

Apr 10 14 08:35 pm Link

Model

IDiivil

Posts: 4615

Los Angeles, California, US

Vintagevista wrote:
At the risk of being a meddling photographer

I would suggest a lighter sundress - it's fast - easy on and off - (works as a coverup in the field where a robe is kinda bulky) - does not leave lines on the skin.

And very easy to shoot for its own sake.

Not a meddling photographer at all smile I'd very much like to hear from photographers on what they feel is important for a model to bring to their shoot with them!

Apr 10 14 09:23 pm Link

Model

Gelsen Aripia

Posts: 1407

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Since I began modeling for artists back in 2008, my wardrobe has changed quite drastically.  When I sit for portraits (I've sat for hundreds), they want me to wear colourful clothing, preferably with some sort of print.  No black is allowed.  They like accessories, preferably from another time period, and they want to see some skin.

I usually never buy anything anymore unless I could wear it for a portrait sitting.  I've used a lot of these clothes and accessories at photo shoots, but most of the time my shoots are nudes so all I have to worry about is making sure I haven't got any lines on my skin.  I stopped wearing bras altogether back in January--it's wonderful!

Apr 10 14 09:39 pm Link

Model

Paige Thomley

Posts: 573

West Bend, Wisconsin, US

I tend to buy whatever I like, the weirder the better, and get photographers to pick from what I have. They like it, I get to be shot in something I love, and it's out of the norm from what they usually have to work with. That's just me. And I do have all of the normal stuff too but no one ever asks to shoot me in it.

Apr 10 14 09:51 pm Link

Photographer

JONATHAN RICHARD

Posts: 778

New York, New York, US

IDiivil wrote:
........ smile I'd very much like to hear from photographers on what they feel is important for a model to bring to their shoot with them!

For self promotion work it is either my stylist or I that pulls or provides the styling.
I am always happy to have a look see at what a model may have with them..But will veto selections if I find the styling is not for my project or the look I want for the model.

When I first started testing with small teams or just a model, I would often find that the models budget would not provide for the styling I would use for projects. 
Hence the veto option became standard for my shoots as did my ever increasing stock of wardrobe for a models /stylist use.

Apr 11 14 04:17 am Link

Model

Ida Saint-Luc

Posts: 449

San Francisco, California, US

Eugenya wrote:
When I sit for portraits (I've sat for hundreds), they want me to wear colourful clothing, preferably with some sort of print.  No black is allowed.

That's awesome.

I love patterns and designs on my clothes, but photographers seem to want to keep it plain (otherwise it's too distracting?). So maybe we could add 'patternless' to the list of descriptors?

Apr 11 14 06:59 am Link

Model

Elisa 1

Posts: 3344

Monmouth, Wales, United Kingdom

Quality hosiery. I favour seamed stockings, and tights, in nude tan and black. Hold ups too.

A good collection of gloves, long and short in leather and cotton etc in various colours. Vintage ones are generally finer fitting so can emphasize hand gesture.

Some unusual jewellery pieces. I like strong ethnic metalwork from places like south east Asia Afghanistan Nepal and South America, which add a little strength and interest; but also pearls and crystal diamante are useful.

I think that a good wardrobe can help you get bookings as a model, even when shooting supplied fashions. Often I end up for example equipping an entire fashion show or showroom event with gloves, shoots with hosiery etc which is always appreciated.

Furs. I have a few and again they can get requested.

I also have a high neck body suit which can be useful.

A few long  and shorter tight hobble and pencil skirts, dramatic and statement vintage pieces etc can also come in handy.

Quality and classic lingerie. I've lost count of how many times my Agent Provocateur corsets with and without suspender straps have come in handy. It's definitely worth investing in.

Latex stockings are useful too.

I am lucky as I represent several milliners so ok on hats so can always call on the designers for editorial shoots. But I also have a few of my own too.

Apr 11 14 08:41 am Link

Model

Sarah Lynn Modeling

Posts: 161

Asheville, North Carolina, US

It's funny, whenever I go shopping my first thought is, "would this look good in a photo shoot?"

While a majority of my shoots have the clothes provided by a designer or stylist, shoots come up here and there where I have to pull from my own closet--so I try to be prepared smile  Great post by the way!

Apr 11 14 09:13 am Link

Model

BeatnikDiva

Posts: 14859

Fayetteville, Arkansas, US

I pick from my own closet and have a variety of garters and stockings, corsets, and heels.  Gloves are always interesting, and my furs are always at hand.

I'd like to have a couple of additional vintage hats.

Apr 11 14 10:08 am Link

Photographer

GER Photography

Posts: 8463

Imperial, California, US

I have a closet full of wardrobe I've purchased for shoots (chain maille bikini, Coon skin cap...) What I don't have are nice sexy bras (too many sizes) and women's shoes (same reason) I appreciate it when a model brings these along.

Apr 11 14 10:22 am Link

Model

JoJo

Posts: 26560

Clearwater, Florida, US

... and at least half a dozen extra (new) pairs of stockings!

Nothing ruins a nice lingerie shoot faster than a ladder in the model's stockings.

Apr 11 14 10:38 am Link

Photographer

I M N Photography

Posts: 2350

Boston, Massachusetts, US

Depending on the type of modeling you do, keeping accurate measurements listed on your profile is more important than doubling as a stylist for your own photoshoots.

Some people don't bother keeping that section current, or even posting accurate information, because they assume they will always have to wear their personal attire to a session.

Unless your wardrobe consists of haute couture, unusual costumes, or high-end lingerie, you really don't need to pack a trunk for your sessions.

Other than the usual personal items (for sanitary reasons), a brush, extra change of underwear (preferably a nude color), black leggings and a sleeveless tee, you should be all set for any situation, unless you discussed wardrobe ahead of time.

Obviously you need even less, if your modeling consists of "artistic nudes", but the wardrobe should be provided by the photographer or stylist.

MUAH is a sufficient burden. Expecting models to be wardrobe stylists as well,  is a bit much.

Apr 11 14 10:41 am Link

Model

Isis22

Posts: 3557

Muncie, Indiana, US

I rarely shoot in clothes. The last time I did the photographer brought a ton of stuff he wanted me to wear. I wore some of my jewelry and eventually my shoes because the ones he brought didn't fit well at all. I like my lingerie that includes 2 garter skirts that have matching bras. I had one photographer that made a corset out of the red bondage tape I brought. You never know what might work.

Apr 11 14 12:31 pm Link

Model

Elisa 1

Posts: 3344

Monmouth, Wales, United Kingdom

IMnPhoto wrote:
Depending on the type of modeling you do, keeping accurate measurements listed on your profile is more important than doubling as a stylist for your own photoshoots.

Some people don't bother keeping that section current, or even posting accurate information, because they assume they will always have to wear their personal attire to a session.

Unless your wardrobe consists of haute couture, unusual costumes, or high-end lingerie, you really don't need to pack a trunk for your sessions.

Other than the usual personal items (for sanitary reasons), a brush, extra change of underwear (preferably a nude color), black leggings and a sleeveless tee, you should be all set for any situation, unless you discussed wardrobe ahead of time.

Obviously you need even less, if your modeling consists of "artistic nudes", but the wardrobe should be provided by the photographer or stylist.

MUAH is a sufficient burden. Expecting models to be wardrobe stylists as well,  is a bit much.

Actually, even doing editorial shoots and fashion shows where a lot is provided, unless you are a top fashion model with stylists provided, the more wardrobe one has the better.
Take my avatar for example. The gloves and jodphurs are mine. Wouldn't have quite been the same without them I think.
I get booked on the strength of my wardrobe and this is especially true for niche models like alt, gothic, vintage/burlesque models etc. But also what self respecting glamour model doesn't have great lingerie, thigh boots etc?
We get ASKED by photographers what we have and could we bring it. Even if they have stuff for a third party, or variety of designers for an editorial then it's always worth taking what may come in handy. I did a shoot a few months,ago for a hosiery company. So I'd have been a bit buggered if I'd just turned up with leggings and a t shirt. I had a variety of quality hosiery, ten pairs of heels, furs etc and all were used. The hosiery company were delighted with the results. Now,arguably the photographer should have got a stylist or bought a load of clothes but thankyou I'd rather supply myself and save him some money.

It's not essential for all modelling work but if you have a varied wardrobe  it definitely helps in securing work. Especially as I say if you have a niche.

So here three of us modelling for a milliner and a jeweller with our own wardrobe:

https://fbcdn-photos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/t1.0-0/q79/s480x480/1238890_578369308891439_1558382966_n.jpg
Pic Carl Ryan.

Now what if we'd turned up with leggings?
In fact we were selected for the job because of the period wardrobe they knew we have.

So it's not the same for all models and at journeyman level our wardrobe is often key to work. Even at top level in fashion mags one regularly sees wardrobe items listed as 'models own'.

I've lost count of the horror stories I've heard from.photographers who expect models to turn up and specifically requested a good pair of heels and they arrive without so it's involved last minute shoe shopping. Lost count of how many times I've had to lend models shoes too.

There is also the myth that doing Art photography also of necessity involves nudes. It doesn't. This is mostly my wardrobe Retox magazine feature on Sheradon Dublins Architecture project:
https://fbcdn-photos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/t1.0-0/p480x480/935040_598677043483887_1314852119_n.jpg

And as you say, a bit of unusual couture comes in handy, even for Art photographers; especially as they may not have budget for stylists.So one who comes styled with a look they want is helpful in securing work.  My Mugler jacket and latex stockings on a shoot for David Salisbury
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t31.0-8/p480x480/893657_507680085960362_151283658_o.jpg

You should look at model castings here and how many specifically ask for particular styles or wardrobe.

Lots of models are even sponsored with wardrobe from clothing companies for the express reason we get the stuff seen.  I even get wardrobe sent to me from an Australian design house. The burlesque girls in particular have lots of wardrobe sponsors. A lot of freelance models will of course have good relations with press offices and designers etc too to call on for editorial wardrobe.


Then of course a number of models now cultivate cosplay alter egos with costumes too.


Of course, I've also worked with photographers who say just bring yourself I have lots of wardrobe. Yeah ....like ra ra skirts and cheap lingerie and hooker shoes two sizes too small or big  lol At the end of the day he who pays the piper calls the tune, but there are limits!
Of course, for agency models, it's different wardrobe is usually supplied for them for most shoots. But for many freelancers a good wardrobe can be a big advantage.

Apr 11 14 01:06 pm Link

Model

Kyzn

Posts: 28

London, England, United Kingdom

Yes, I agree with this list, I don't know what I would do without my Black high heels to say the least ^_^

Apr 11 14 02:34 pm Link

Model

K I C K H A M

Posts: 14689

Los Angeles, California, US

For a non-nude model, I tend to show up dressed a little more like a model. Some clients can be so judgy, and since you're already showing up with no hair and makeup done, it's tough. I come in skinny jeans but have shorts with me so I can change.

I always wear a button up top so I can remove it after makeup with no worries!

Robes are still a great idea: they can even be useful for covering up for quick changes.

Tennis shoes on any location shoot. There have been so many times that I've unexpectedly had to walk through sharp branches, up and down steep hills, and other things that are not safe and ALSO really scuff your heels. No bueno!

I recommend the no-show thongs and briefs from VS. They are my absolute need and some of the only reasonably priced ones that don't show through anything!

Apr 11 14 02:40 pm Link

Model

Jen B

Posts: 4474

Phoenix, Arizona, US

Sarah Lynn Modeling wrote:
It's funny, whenever I go shopping my first thought is, "would this look good in a photo shoot?"

While a majority of my shoots have the clothes provided by a designer or stylist, shoots come up here and there where I have to pull from my own closet--so I try to be prepared smile  Great post by the way!

me too. Pretty much all my wardrobe is resale goodwill or from the local value village, (like a lower end goodwill resale.)

Jen

Apr 12 14 05:49 am Link

Model

Elisa 1

Posts: 3344

Monmouth, Wales, United Kingdom

Kyzn wrote:
Yes, I agree with this list, I don't know what I would do without my Black high heels to say the least ^_^

A pair of Cuban heeled Jeffery Wests wouldn't go amiss for any male model. smile

http://www.jeffery-west.co.uk/jefferywe … ot-31-1027

Apr 12 14 06:01 am Link

Photographer

ChadAlan

Posts: 4254

Los Angeles, California, US

This is a really great thread and I've saved it at 2 different stages already smile
(sorry for posting in here)

I want to make sure I have at least some or most of these items handy because I run into models not being fully prepared quite often, so I'll probably be picking up some of the things listed by others in the thread.

So far I have:

A strapless bra and and a bandeau top (for clean shoulder beauty work)
Few packages of new, nude colored seamless underwear (I think they're thongs)
A variety of wardrobe, some odds and ends and American Apparel wardrobe
Some hose and stockings
Backup makeup palates
Styling accessories, pins, clips, ties, flat iron, curling iron and hair dryer
Feminine products
Small array of over the counter medications
Sunglasses, some vintage
Couple of bracelets, necklaces
Big pack of baby wipes for cleaning the soles of shoes, and faces after the shoot.
Upright steamer
fashion tape
Pasties (although I hate using the things)
Tiny palm sized sewing kit
Light snacks for vegans, and non-vegans, and drinks.

Things I have run into quite often that I want to get after I win the lottery smile

Plain black wedges (2 pairs and hope for the best? LOL)
Beach/Casual sandal wear
Robe
Human hair wigs
Hair extensions
Neutral nail polish and remover

smile

Apr 12 14 09:00 pm Link

Model

Torttunaattori

Posts: 320

Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland

Sarah Lynn Modeling wrote:
It's funny, whenever I go shopping my first thought is, "would this look good in a photo shoot?"

While a majority of my shoots have the clothes provided by a designer or stylist, shoots come up here and there where I have to pull from my own closet--so I try to be prepared smile  Great post by the way!

I shop the EXACT way big_smile

Apr 14 14 09:40 am Link

Model

IDiivil

Posts: 4615

Los Angeles, California, US

K I C K H A M wrote:
For a non-nude model, I tend to show up dressed a little more like a model. Some clients can be so judgy, and since you're already showing up with no hair and makeup done, it's tough. I come in skinny jeans but have shorts with me so I can change.

I always wear a button up top so I can remove it after makeup with no worries!

Robes are still a great idea: they can even be useful for covering up for quick changes.

Tennis shoes on any location shoot. There have been so many times that I've unexpectedly had to walk through sharp branches, up and down steep hills, and other things that are not safe and ALSO really scuff your heels. No bueno!

I recommend the no-show thongs and briefs from VS. They are my absolute need and some of the only reasonably priced ones that don't show through anything!

Oh God, yes, TENNIS SHOES! How could I forget that?!?!? big_smile

Apr 14 14 03:52 pm Link