What Not to Wear on Camera: A Comprehensive Guide
Dressing for the camera can be tricky, especially when you want to look your best. Some items of clothing can look great in person but terrible on camera.
1. Avoid Patterns and Stripes
Patterns and stripes can be distracting on camera, especially if they're large or bold. They can create a moiré effect, which is an optical illusion that makes the pattern appear to move or shimmer. This can be very distracting for viewers.
2. Don't Wear Loose or Flowy Fabrics
Loose or flowy fabrics can move around too much on camera, which can be distracting. They can also make you look larger than you actually are. If you're wearing a flowy dress or skirt, be sure to pair it with a fitted top to help keep it in place.
3. Steer Clear of Sheer Fabrics
Sheer fabrics can be very revealing on camera, especially if they're in a light color. They can also show wrinkles and other imperfections in your skin. If you're going to wear sheer fabric, be sure to wear a slip or camisole underneath to provide coverage.
4. Avoid Clothing with Logos or Graphics
Clothing with logos or graphics can be distracting on camera, especially if they're large or prominent. They can also make you look unprofessional. If you're going to wear a shirt with a logo, be sure to choose one that's small and subtle.
5. Don't Wear White or Black
White and black can be very harsh on camera. White can wash you out, while black can make you look drab. If you're going to wear white or black, be sure to pair it with other colors to help break it up.
6. Avoid Wearing Clothing That's Too Tight or Too Loose
Clothing that's too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable and distracting on camera. If your clothes are too tight, they can restrict your movement. If they're too loose, they can make you look sloppy.
7. Don't Wear Clothing That's Wrinkled or Stained
Wrinkled or stained clothing can make you look unprofessional and unkempt. Be sure to iron your clothes before you wear them on camera. If you get a stain on your clothes, be sure to remove it before you go on camera.
8. Avoid Clothing That's Too Revealing
Clothing that's too revealing can be distracting and unprofessional on camera. Be sure to choose clothing that covers your body appropriately. If you're not sure if something is too revealing, it's better to err on the side of caution and choose something more modest.
9. Don't Wear Clothing That's Too Casual
Casual clothing can be comfortable, but it's not always appropriate for on-camera appearances. If you're going to be on camera, it's best to dress in something more formal. This doesn't mean you have to wear a suit, but you should choose something that's clean, pressed, and professional.
10. Don't Wear Clothing That's Uncomfortable
If you're not comfortable in your clothing, it will show on camera. Choose clothing that you feel good in and that allows you to move around freely. If you're constantly fidgeting or adjusting your clothing, it will be distracting for viewers.
11. Know Your Body Type
Not all clothing looks good on everyone. When choosing what to wear on camera, it's important to know your body type and choose clothing that flatters your figure. For example, if you have a pear-shaped body, you should choose clothing that emphasizes your waist and hips. If you have an apple-shaped body, you should choose clothing that draws attention to your bust and legs.
12. Consider the Occasion
The occasion you're dressing for will also affect what you should wear on camera. If you're going to be on a news program, you'll need to dress more formally than if you're going to be on a talk show. If you're not sure what to wear, it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose something more formal.
13. What to Wear on Camera
Now that you know what to avoid, it's time to talk about what you should wear on camera. The best clothing for on-camera appearances is solid colors, fits well, and is comfortable. You should also choose clothing that is appropriate for the occasion and flatters your body type.
14. Solid Colors
Solid colors are best for on-camera appearances because they don't create a moiré effect. They also help to create a more professional and polished look.
15. Well-Fitted Clothing
Well-fitted clothing is important for on-camera appearances because it helps to create a flattering silhouette. Clothing that is too loose or too tight can be distracting and uncomfortable.
16. Comfortable Clothing
It's important to choose comfortable clothing for on-camera appearances because you'll be wearing it for an extended period of time. If you're not comfortable in your clothing, it will show on camera.
17. Clothing Appropriate for Occasion
The occasion you're dressing for will also affect what you should wear on camera. If you're going to be on a news program, you'll need to dress more formally than if you're going to be on a talk show. If you're not sure what to wear, it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose something more formal.
18. Flattering Clothing
When choosing what to wear on camera, it's important to choose clothing that flatters your body type. For example, if you have a pear-shaped body, you should choose clothing that emphasizes your waist and hips. If you have an apple-shaped body, you should choose clothing that draws attention to your bust and legs.
| Pattern / Stripes / | Description | Example |
| ----- | ----- | ----- |
| Pattern | Can be distracting on camera. Creates moiré effect. | Large, bold patterns are to be avoided. |
| Stripes | Can be distracting on camera. Creates moiré effect. | Small or subtle stripes can be okay. |
| Logos / Graphics | Avoid large or prominent logos or graphics. | Small, subtle logos or graphics are okay. |
| White / Black | Very harsh on camera. | Consider pairing with other colors. |
| Loose Fabrics | Distracting and can make you look larger | Flowy dress or skirts should be paired with fitted tops. |
| Clothing | Description | Image | | ----- | ----- | ----- | | Sheer Fabrics | Very revealing on camera. | Image of a woman wearing a sheer blouse | | Wrinkled or Stained Clothes | Unprofessional and unkempt. | Image of a man wearing a wrinkled shirt | | Revealing Clothing | Too distracting and unprofessional. | Image of a woman wearing a revealing dress |
FAQs
- What is the #1 thing to avoid wearing on camera?
- Avoid wearing loose or flowy fabrics.
- Why should I avoid wearing white or black on camera?
- White can wash you out, while black can make you look drab.
- What if I don't know what my body type is?
- There are many online quizzes that can help you determine your body type.
- What should I do if I have to wear something that is not flattering?
- Try to accessorize with pieces that will help to distract from the unflattering item.
- Can I wear a casual outfit on camera?
- It depends on the occasion. Casual outfits are generally not appropriate for formal events.
- How can I look my best on camera?
- Choose clothing that fits well, is comfortable, and is appropriate for the occasion.
- What are some tips for dressing for a job interview on camera?
- Dress professionally, in solid colors, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or distracting.
- What are some tips for dressing for a presentation on camera?
- Dress professionally, in solid colors, and avoid wearing anything too loose or flowy.
- What are some tips for dressing for a webinar on camera?
- Dress professionally, in solid colors, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or distracting.
- What are some tips for dressing for a live stream on camera?
- Dress appropriately for your audience and the topic of your live stream.
Conclusion
Dressing for the camera can be tricky, but it doesn't have to be. There are a few things you can keep in mind to help you choose the right outfit. Avoid clothing with patterns, stripes, logos, or graphics. Avoid sheer fabrics, clothing that's too loose or tight, clothing that's too revealing, or clothing that's not appropriate
