20 Looks for a Model Test Shoot
- David Arnold
- Feb 22
- 4 min read
Updated: May 6
A Model Test Shoot: 20 Essential Outfit Ideas to Elevate Your Portfolio
A model test shoot is an essential step in building a versatile portfolio. The right outfit choices highlight your range, personality, and ability to adapt to different styles. Whether you're aiming for a clean professional look, trendy streetwear, or something high-fashion, this list offers 20 outfit ideas that can work for a variety of modeling test shoots. These are suggestions, not must-haves, so pick the ones that best fit your goals and personal style!
Traditional Looks: Essential for Any Model
These go-to outfits offer a clean and professional look. This style is preferred by agencies and clients for modeling portfolios.
1. Model Off-Duty: Classic & Clean
This is a timeless staple for agency digitals, focusing on simplicity and natural beauty.
Outfit: Classic blue jeans (choose straight-leg or slim fit) and a white tank top.
Layering: Add a light jacket, oversized blazer, or leather jacket for extra options.
Shoes: Go barefoot, wear heels, or opt for clean white sneakers.
Hair & Makeup: Keep it minimal with natural skin, soft brows, and lightly defined lips. Hair can be in a sleek ponytail, loose, or styled simply.
2. Effortless Chic
This look is a step up from casual, adding a touch of elegance and polish.
Outfit: A solid-color fitted dress (black, white, or nude) or a form-fitting top with a pencil skirt or fitted mini skirt.
Layering: An elevated trench coat or cropped blazer adds sophistication.
Shoes: Opt for simple heels or classic ballet flats.
Hair & Makeup: Keep it clean and natural with soft waves or a sleek low bun.
3. Monochrome Minimalist: All-Black Sleek Look
This polished, slim silhouette works well for both fashion and commercial test shoots.
Outfit: Black skinny pants paired with a black tank top.
Layering: Consider a structured blazer, oversized coat, or denim jacket to add depth.
Shoes: Heels elongate your look, while ankle boots offer a stylish finish.
Hair & Makeup: A sleek bun or ponytail with subtle contouring adds refinement.

Fashion Looks: Showcase Your Style
For models aiming to exhibit style, personality, and versatility, these outfit ideas range from edgy streetwear to sophisticated high-fashion.
4. Power Suit Chic
Outfit: Tailored blazer with trousers (or a matching blazer and shorts), paired with a sleek bodysuit or crop top.
Shoes: Go for pointed heels or chic loafers.
Layering: An oversized blazer can add an innovative element to your look.
5. Rebel Edge
Outfit: Wear a black leather jacket with ripped skinny jeans, a graphic tee, and combat boots.
Accessories: Include chain jewelry or stylish sunglasses for extra attitude.
6. Modern Muse
Outfit: Choose a monochrome, figure-hugging dress or bodysuit with bold earrings.
Shoes: Go for knee-high boots or strappy heels to maintain elegance.
7. Street Luxe
Outfit: Style an oversized hoodie or a cropped sweatshirt with biker shorts or cargo pants.
Shoes: Sneakers keep this outfit relaxed.
Accessories: Add statement sunglasses for an effortlessly cool touch.
8. Timeless Elegance
Outfit: Opt for a simple slip dress or a fitted midi dress paired with strappy heels.
Layering: A structured blazer or lightweight shawl enhances your outfit.
9. Urban Cool
Outfit: Combine denim in a denim-on-denim look (denim jacket matched with jeans or skirt) and a white tank top.
Shoes: Choose chunky sneakers for a contemporary vibe.
Accessories: Hoop earrings and a bold lip complete the look.
10. Boho Dream
Outfit: Wear a flowy maxi dress or linen set with strappy sandals.
Accessories: Layered necklaces and soft waves in your hair enhance the bohemian feel.
11. 90s Revival
Outfit: Create a nostalgic look with baggy jeans, a cropped tank, and a plaid shirt tied around the waist.
Shoes: Platform sneakers or Doc Martens are great choices.
12. High-Fashion Minimalist
Outfit: A structured top with wide-leg trousers and pointed-toe heels create a chic look.
Hair & Makeup: A sleek bun paired with bold eyeliner gives an editorial finish.
13. Dark Romance
Outfit: Choose a black lace top or corset matched with high-waisted trousers or a fitted skirt.
Accessories: Wear statement earrings and a smoky eye for a sultry effect.

Additional Looks: Experiment with Aesthetics
For models eager to experiment with different aesthetics, these outfits offer variety to your portfolio.
14. Clean Girl
Outfit: A neutral-toned tank top or bodysuit with high-waisted tailored trousers or a midi skirt gives a neat appearance.
Shoes: Minimalist white sneakers or strappy sandals add to the clean vibe.
15. Athleisure
Outfit: Form-fitting leggings or biker shorts paired with a cropped tank or sports bra and an oversized zip-up hoodie.
Shoes: Sneakers worn with crew socks complete this sporty look.
16. Emo Revival
Outfit: Choose black skinny jeans or a plaid mini skirt, paired with fishnet stockings, a band tee, or a mesh top.
Shoes: Chunky boots elevate this urban style.
17. Swimwear – Luxe Poolside
Outfit: Select a high-cut, one-piece swimsuit or a sleek, minimal bikini in a neutral or monochrome tone.
Accessories: An oversized sunhat or sheer cover-up adds flair.
18. Swimwear – Sporty Beach Babe
Outfit: A vibrant or color-blocked bikini combined with a zip-up rash guard or mesh tank prepares you for beach vibes.
Shoes: Sporty slides or going barefoot is perfect for an active look.
19. Lingerie – Soft & Feminine
Outfit: A delicate lace bralette with high-waisted briefs in neutral or pastel tones.
Layering: A sheer robe or oversized button-down shirt adds layers of style.
20. Lingerie – Bold & Sultry
Outfit: Opt for a striking black or deep jewel-toned lingerie set with a garter belt and thigh-high stockings.
Layering: A leather jacket or oversized blazer gives this look a fashion-forward edge.

Final Thoughts on Model Test Shoots
Not every test shoot requires a massive wardrobe—the key is versatility and showcasing your personality. These 20 outfit ideas provide a mix of classic, trendy, and editorial options, giving you the freedom to choose what best suits your modeling goals.
📸 Tip: When preparing for a test shoot, always bring a few extra outfit choices and keep accessories simple. The goal is to enhance your presence, not overshadow it!
Which of these looks are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments!
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