Headed for the Small Screen? Dress the Part!
2/4/2010 3:22:37 PM

By Kristyn Wilson, Media Relations Director

Whether or not the camera adds 15 pounds, you’ve got to dress the part when you’re going to be in front of one! Your clothes say something about you and can add to - or take away from - your message. That said, here are some quick tips to help you look your best during a TV interview:

Dress to reflect your messaging and location. A suit is appropriate if your interview is business-related and the interview setup is more formal. However, if you’re talking about the state fair and your interview is in a barn, a suit would look out of place.

Always have a shirt with a logo. The whole time you’re on camera, viewers will be looking at you. Why not maximize that opportunity by having your company/organization logo appear on camera too? It’s a great, unspoken reminder of who you are and who you represent.

Be clean and comfortable. If you feel uncomfortable in the clothes you’re wearing, it will show on camera. Wear something that makes you feel confident, fits you well and is properly pressed. (The camera doesn’t take away wrinkles!)

White may be your color, but it doesn’t work for TV. White, checks, houndstooth, black & white, sparkles, glitter and clothing that makes noise should be avoided. They don’t come across well on camera and microphones will pick up all sounds.

Less is best when it comes to jewelry. A TV interview is not the time to wear big earrings and a bold necklace. The focus should be on your face and not your jewelry. Also avoid bracelets that make noise.

Glasses are OK, if you need them. Studio lights can be reflected in eyeglasses. If you will be making multiple TV appearances, invest in non-reflective lenses. If not, make sure your lenses are clean and make sure frames are not distracting.

Make-up isn’t just for women! Everyone should come to a TV interview equipped with a compact. Make sure makeup matches your skin tone and you should know how to apply it before the interview. Men should dust their forehead, nose, chin and the tops of their ears. Women should wear natural looking makeup. Lipstick, blush and eye makeup can be slightly bolder than what you usually wear, but now is not the time to create a whole new look.

Clean, simple hair works best. If you’re going to make many TV appearances, it’s important to pick a style that you can commit to since it's important to keep a consistent look while trying to establish name/face recognition. That said, ladies, don't wear your hair up for one interview and down the next, and don’t drastically change hair colors. Keep hair simple, not too big away from the face. Men, don't overdo it on the styling products, since they can tend to make hair look greasy and can reflect TV lights.

These rules don’t ALWAYS apply. Celebrities being interviewed by “Entertainment Tonight” have permission to go bold because it’s an entertainment show. Politicians being interview by CNN must look proper because it’s a hard news channel. There can be exceptions to every rule - but in most situations, these tips stand true.

Last, but certainly not least, smile! It’s the best accessory you have.