Because TV is primarily a visual medium, how you look is an important part of communicating your message. Here are some tips to help you save time and look your best:
Make sure your wardrobe is consistent with the message you want to convey. If you want to come across as serious and sober, a suit is appropriate. If your message is laid back or fun wear something more casual, but still neat and professional.
Make sure clothing is “broken in” and comfortable. If you feel too stiff and formal in your clothes this will affect how you express yourself.
Bring a change of clothes. This is perfectly acceptable if you can’t decide what to wear or aren’t sure what will look best on camera.
What NOT to Wear on Camera:
Black, white, or red. Even the best cameras have trouble with these colors.
Tight patterns or pin stripes. This includes herringbone, tweed, polka dots, etc. They create a jumpy effect on camera called a “moiré pattern” or “strobing.”
Large busy prints or geometric shapes. The audience will watch your clothes instead of you.
Flashy jewelry, watches, or tie tacks. They may make noise or reflect light.
What to Wear on Camera:
Solid colored coats or jackets: brown, blue, navy, tan, green, or grey.
Pastels. Some TV professionals advise that pastels can make you look younger and perhaps less authoritative.
Solid colored shirts, sweaters, or ties. Subdued stripes, checks, or plaids are acceptable, but avoid tight patterns and pinstripes.
Makeup. It reduces the glare of lights. Cover-up below the eyes can mask bags or wrinkles. Avoid vivid or glossy lip colors. Softer tones and matte shades look best.
Other Tips:
A dark colored suit, a light colored shirt or blouse (not white), and tie in a neutral color or subdued pattern are safe choices.
Wear your eyeglasses if you want. Tip the bows of your glasses up slightly off your ears. This angles the lenses down to reduce glare.
Choose dark-colored, over-the-calf socks.
Keep double-breasted jackets buttoned. Singled breasted jackets can be opened slightly. A trick: when you sit down, smooth the back of your jacket under you and sit on it. This will ensure that the jacket collar doesn’t ride up over your shirt.
Ties should be properly tied with a dimple under the knot.
Avoid low-cut blouses or short skirts.
Choose a hairstyle that stays in place so you won’t fuss with it on camera.
By Christina Henderson
Marketing Consultant, Bottom Line Marketing
