How to Dress for a Professional Audition for Kids

Overdressing is preferable to underdressing if you're unsure.

How your child dresses for a professional audition can mean the difference between getting accepted and being rejected for a role. While it is not the only thing to consider when your kid auditions, wearing appropriate yet professional attire conveys to those for whom he is auditioning that he has a strong desire to get the part. If your child has an upcoming audition and you are not completely sure what he should wear, consider some of the ways you can dress him for the best chance of success.

Instructions

1. Determine what your child is going to wear at least one day prior to the audition. You want to be sure that you have every item of clothing, from her socks to her belt, that she will be wearing for the audition. If a part of her wardrobe is missing during the audition, it will come across as unprofessional.

2. Follow the casting director's directions. Many casting directors will want your child to look the part, but some may not require him to wear anything special at all. Whatever the case, if a casting director gives you specific directions for a certain type of attire, you need to oblige his request.

3. Consider the role for which your child is auditioning. If a child is auditioning for a commercial that takes place on the beach, for example, beach attire would be more appropriate than a suit.

4. Use jewelry sparingly. A little bit of jewelry will look professional, but overdoing it can turn off a casting director.

5. Choose garments that accentuate your child's skin tone, eyes and hair color. Bright pink and orange shirts are too gaudy, but periwinkle and lavender will highlight your child's best features.

6. Wear tidy and clean shoes, whether your child wears tennis shoes or dress shoes. Scuffed, frayed and dirty shoes show the casting director that you are lackadaisical and don't pay attention to detail.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a backup set of clothes that is business casual in case you arrive to your audition underdressed.

• Shy away from clothing with logos, as it can represent a conflict of interest or leave a less-than-desirable impression upon the casting director for one reason or another.

• Refrain from wearing white if your child is auditioning for a screen test, as it doesn't read well on screen.

References

• The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts: Auditions & Callbacks

Resources

• Kids Who Care: Audition Etiquette