Lauren was thrilled to schedule her video shoot. She was going to tell her business story and share her video with the world to help others.  When it came time to pick an outfit, she wanted to wear something that expressed her larger-than-life personality…bright, bold, and busy.  

Ruffling through the closet, Lauren pulled out her favorite white blouse that was loose and flowy. She paired it with multi-colored striped pants that were currently in-style.  To perfect the look she chose a sparkly necklace and her grandmothers’ glamorous bangle bracelets.  

Lauren was ready to change the world!  Until she watched a clip of her new video. 

During the viewing, Lauren couldn’t even concentrate on what she was saying. She was distracted by the faint (but constant) jingling of her bracelets and the distracting flashes of light bouncing off  her faceted necklace.  Her beautiful, billowing white shirt was too bright and blinding against the backdrop and her favorite pants were dizzying as the stripes vibrated on the screen. 

Her outfit was a disaster, and it affected her video’s impact.

When A Great Outfit Goes Wrong

Have you ever watched the popular TV series “What Not to Wear?” In the show, unsuspecting “victims” were referred by a friend for a total head-to-toe makeover. Most of the selected candidates thought they looked just fine--until they saw themselves in a 360 degree mirror. As the show progressed, the person experienced a total transformation and gained a new, genuine sense of confidence. 

Preparing for your next video shoot can be a little like an episode of “What Not to Wear.” You think you look good until you see yourself on camera. 

I want you to avoid Lauren’s mistakes. Let me take you on a little video-version of “What Not to Wear” with four simple tips that will help you keep the focus on your video story and off of your clothes. 

4 Things NOT to Wear On Your Next Video Shoot

#1: Don’t Wear Neutral or Hot Colors

When it comes to color, the first thing you should do is discuss the setting of your video with your videographer. You won’t know for sure what colors clash or create a distraction until you know what will be shown behind you. Here are some general rules to keep in mind:

Hot, bright neon colors can glow on screen when you’re under camera lighting.  

Light, neutral colors, such as beige or pastels, have a habit of either blending poorly or contrasting too greatly with the background.  

Wearing a pure, crisp white may seem angelic but white has a tendency to over-expose the shot leaving you washed out or pale.  

Black tends to create shadows that can age facial features or can create a “floating head” effect.  

Do Wear Jewel Tones and Rich Colors. 

Jewel tones look great with all skin tones and general look great against different backdrops.  Ranging from deep blues and emerald green to rich purple and mustard yellow, jewel tones, as well as earth tones, are generally a safe choice for video.

It’s even better if you can incorporate your brand colors into your wardrobe. When discussing your video color palette, request that it is consistent with your overall brand. Branding your video, even with your wardrobe, means it will match well with other marketing materials and serve as a branded asset on your website, social channels, and emails.

We always initiate a conversation with our clients about their color palette as part of our initial contact, but not all videographers do the same. If you’re working with someone who asks you about colors, make sure you bring it up before the shoot.

#2: Don’t Wear Distracting Patterns

Stripes, chevron, houndstooth, and polka dots are great patterns for everyday but are very distracting on camera. Small patterns can create a “vibrating” or wavering visual perception.  This can make viewers dizzy or divert their attention away from what you’re trying to share.  

If you would describe your shirt pattern as “busy” you probably shouldn’t wear it.

Do wear solid colors.

Solid-colored pieces, especially in hues that work well with your skin tone and will compliment you under camera lighting.  

#3: Don’t Wear Baggy Clothes

In some settings, the old saying is true—“The camera adds 10 pounds.”  Wearing baggy or loosely fitted clothes only heighten this effect and makes your figure look wider.  We don’t want you watching your video and cringing because you think you look frumpy. You should look and feel fantastic! 

Do Wear Fitted, Pressed Clothes

Select clothes that fit your shape, emphasize the narrowest part of your body,  and give your figure a taller, longer look.  You also want to make sure all of your pieces are wrinkle-free to further avoid a messy look.

#4: Don’t Wear Excessive Jewelry

As Lauren learned, jewelry can be noisy, shiny and distracting.  A good videographer will help you avoid hearing jingles and clanging from your accessories, but why even risk it? Keep your jewelry selections simple and avoid extra shiny pieces that could catch the light and distract your audience.  

Do Wear Minimal Jewelry

If you typically wear jewelry, then be YOU. Wearing small accessories will modestly complement your attire without creating a distraction to viewers.  If in doubt, consult with your videographer before you start shooting.

What You Wear Is As Important As What You Say

Your attire should help engage viewers and not distract them.  What you wear is just as important as what you say.  

That’s why I recommend planning a couple of different outfit options so you can be prepared for different lighting and background colors.  Bring choices with you to your shoot. If something your shirt looks dull, you can throw on a jacket. If your earrings are too shiny, you can grab a different pair. Having choices is always helpful on set.

Minimizing distractions in your wardrobe will maximize the viewers’ experience and concentration on the story you share. 

When you’re in front of a camera, I want you to look and feel your absolute best.