How to Choose a Wardrobe to Wear on Television

Whether television is your job, or you are just preparing for an on camera interview, it is always crucial to take the time to pick the proper wardrobe. Unfortunately, television cameras can be cruel! Certain styles and colors can come across completely different in front of the camera than they do when you are wearing them in person. Read on to find out how to find the perfect, most flattering fit when it comes to choosing the wardrobe to wear on air.

Things You'll Need

• Wardrobe
• Simple, small accessories

Instructions

1. Begin with solid colors. This is not to say that some striped or patterned outfits will never work on TV, but solids are the best place to start. Sometimes stripes and plaids actually look like they are moving on camera, and so the camera crew and producer usually like to ask that you steer away from that. Although for men, a suit with a very thin pinstripe will usually be fine.

2. Keep in mind the harsh reality that the camera does add 10 pounds on you. You may have a suit or an outfit that you absolutely love to wear on a day to day basis. But if it is a certain cut, color or style, it could actually be very unflattering for you on TV. Again, another reason to stick to solid colors. Whites and other light colors will make you look bigger. So if you are concerned about that, go with black, deep blues and greens and other darker tones.

3. 

   Learn how to choose the style that is most flattering to you. This may take some experimenting, because everyone's body is different. But, there are some general rules to follow that work for everyone. A V-neck shirt or suit top (mainly for ladies) is usually the best choice. The reason for this is that it is slimming for all body types. When you are on camera, at some point the camera crew will take a tight shot of your face. The V-neck top will tend to make your face look slimmer. Scoopneck tops are not recommended, unless you are extremely petite.

4. Go by the same rules if you are choosing a more casual outfit to wear on camera. V-necks or button down collared shirts are best for ladies. Men should definitely stick to collared button downs. Sweaters can work too, as long as it is not a very high turtleneck, because that will literally look like it is choking you. Scarfs tied high around the neck pose the same problem.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the accessories to a minimum. Large earrings and necklaces are distractions. Choose items that are small, and complement your outfit. And don't be afraid to simply go without a necklace if you don't have one that works. Less is more.

• Ladies, be careful of skirts that are cut above the knee. If you are sitting down in front of the camera, this could put you in an awkward position!