What to bring to a model test
Short and practical. Save this the night before.
Clothes
Bring far more than the number of looks you have booked. Three looks does not mean three outfits: it means we choose three from everything you bring. Twice as much as you need is about right.
What to prioritise:
Well-fitting basics in solid colours. Black, white, grey, one strong colour. These are the workhorses.
At least one thing with structure: a jacket, a coat, something tailored. It changes your shape and the frame.
Something close-fitting so your line is visible. This matters for full lengths.
Denim that fits properly. Sounds boring; ends up in half the good frames.
Shoes that change the silhouette: at least two pairs, including something with a heel or a boot if you wear them.
The thing you love that seems wrong. Bring it. It is often the best look of the day.
Avoid large logos, busy patterns and anything you have to keep adjusting.
Steam or iron everything the night before, and bring it on hangers if you can. Creases cost retouching time that could be spent on your face.
Grooming
Clean, dry hair, styled the way you actually wear it. Bring product, a brush, grips and bands so we can change it during the session.
No make-up for digitals. For test looks, either bring your own and do it here, or book an artist: tell us in advance and we will arrange it.
Nails clean and neutral. Hands appear in more frames than models expect.
Skin as normal. No facials, no new products, no spray tan in the week before.
Shave or do not: just do it at least a day ahead if you are shaving, so there is no redness.
The day before
Drink water and get an early night. Both are visible in the eyes, annoyingly.
Avoid tight socks, tight waistbands and elastic: the marks last for hours and they show.
Charge your phone and screenshot the studio address.
On the day
Eat before you come. Two to four hours of concentrating is more tiring than it sounds.
Arrive on time, not early. There may be someone in front of you.
Bring snacks and water.
Bring your agency card or digitals brief if you have one.
Bring a reference or two: three images you like, saved on your phone. Not to copy, just so we know what you are drawn to.
The studio
Cell Studios, Unit 0.9, Grosvenor Way, London E5 9NE, in Clapton, East London.
There is space to change and hang everything up. If you have any questions about access, ask when you book and we will tell you exactly what to expect before you travel.
What not to worry about
Whether you are good at this. That is our job. Turn up with the bag packed and we will do the rest.
