Model Portfolio Essential List
Model Portfolio Essentials List is a must for anyone prepping for a photo shoot—whether you’re building a professional modeling portfolio, getting actor headshots, or doing your first branding session. In this guide, you’ll find what every model—male or female—should always pack, plus recommended outfit styles to bring the best range to your session.
What Every Model Should Bring
For Men:
Wardrobe essentials:
Street/casual: Well-fitted jeans, basic tees, casual shirt, sneakers
Dressy/business: Clean suit, plain button-down, dress shoes, belt
Fitness/athletic: Sportswear set (shorts, tank, athletic shoes), gym gear
Layering items: Casual jacket or hoodie, business blazer
Undergarments: Neutral briefs/boxers, black/no-logo socks
Shoes: Casual (sneakers), dress, and athletic
Grooming: Shave/trim if preferred, hair product, basic skincare
Accessories: Classic watch (if desired), minimal jewelry
For Women:
Wardrobe essentials:
Street/casual: Well-fitted jeans, simple tops, versatile jacket, flats or sneakers
Dressy/cocktail: Black dress, statement skirt or pants, blouse, heels
Fitness/athleisure: Cute workout set, tank or crop, sneakers
Leg-flattering option: Shorts, mini or midi skirt, or dress to show your shape/legs
Date night/party: Elegant dress or favorite bold look
Undergarments: Nude and black bra, seamless panties
Shoes: Flats, heels, and athletic sneakers
Grooming: Light natural makeup kit, hair tools for touch-ups, skincare basics
Accessories: Minimal jewelry, hair ties, a scarf or hat for variety
General Tips (For All)
Outfits should fit well and suit your style/personality.
Keep colors mostly neutral for versatility, but bring a pop of your favorite color too!
Limit logos or busy patterns unless they fit your brand.
Pack a ‘model bag’ with touch-up items (makeup, hairbrush, deodorant, wipes, lint roller, water).
Don’t forget confidence—it’s always the best accessory on camera!
