A new model's guide to basic wardrobe contents.

As a new model it can be a bit daunting knowing what bring and what not to bring to a shoot in regards to styling. This is a basic list of the essentials that you should pack in your suitcase for photography sessions:

You may want to be selective with the below depending on your gender, or you may not ;)

Basic makeup kit with a minimum of 4 different lip and eye colour shades. (Even if working with a MUA it doesn't hurt to have a backup kit just incase the shoot doesn't go to plan.)

Wet wipes, underwear tape, safety pins, straws to drink through without smudging lipstick and a variety of jewellery and bags to accessorise with.

Basic hair accessories - a couple different types of hair clips, hair band, brush and straighteners.

Basic sets of underwear in white, black and nude. Including a strapless bra. The variety in colour helps when shooting light coloured tops or when straps are on show so even if you don't work to lingerie levels it is good to have a variety of colours.

Smart black heels/shoes, comfortable flats, snazzy looking trainers, chunky wedge shoes, boots and a couple more pairs of heels so you have maximum variety in footwear. 

Black, long sleeve polo neck tshirt's are timeless, simple and easy to layer accessories or jackets over.

A leather and a denim jacket - both photograph well.

Tops and/or dresses with lace detail - lace photographs well.

A bold coloured dress/two piece outfit that works with your skin tone and hair colour.

An unusual looking garment that would make a strong impression.

Plain t-shirts in a variety of colours and cuts which suit your colourings.

Smart trousers, jeans, linen trousers, short skirt and a long skirt.

A striped or patterned top and plain jeans/skirt.

A striped or patterned dress.

A big comfortable jumper.

Thick socks for warmth!!

Your main goal is to have enough variety of outfits and looks to allow you and the creative team to produce images with maximum variety. As a model it is key for you to be able to vary your look, this will get you work in a range of genres and help you produce a varied portfolio and ultimately get more work.

For a visual record of the above and more tips on styling have a look at my board on pinterest.