Dressing For Success: What to Wear For Your Corporate Video

Corporate videos have become a powerful tool for conveying messages, building brand image, and connecting with audiences. Whether you’re the CEO sharing insights about your company’s future or an employee delivering a powerful testimonial, your choice of attire plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions. Not only can appearance speak volumes before you even say anything, but appropriate clothing can contribute to the overall experience of the video. Here are some key considerations for dressing the part in a corporate video.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is fundamental in choosing the right outfit. If your company operates in a formal industry like finance or law, a classic business suit might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re in a more creative or tech-focused field, you may have more flexibility to showcase your personal style while maintaining a polished look.

Dress for Your Role

The role you play in the video or the company should dictate your attire. As a CEO, your clothing should reflect authority and professionalism. A well-tailored suit or a sophisticated dress can convey confidence and competence. For employees giving testimonials, opt for business casual attire that strikes a balance between professionalism and approachability. This might include a collared shirt or blouse with tailored trousers or a knee-length skirt. If your role requires you to wear a uniform like a lab coat, safety equipment, or scrubs that can also be an effective wardrobe choice. Dressing the part will inform the audience of your role and emphasize your expertise.

Stick to Neutral & Solid Colors

While it’s great to let your personality shine through, it’s advisable to stick to neutral colours for corporate videos. Solid colours like navy, black, gray and earth tones exude a sense of sophistication and professionalism. These colours also tend to look more flattering on camera and create a timeless, classic aesthetic. Avoid loud patterns or graphics as they can be distracting. You should also stay clear of fine patterns like pinstripes and small checkered or polka dots as they cause issues like moire pattern and strobing when filming.

Avoid Logos

Wear items that don’t have noticeable brand logos or labels (unless of course, it is your company branding.) This means avoiding sneakers with a Nike check mark or polo shirts with the logo embroidered into the chest. Something small and discreet is likely fine if it won’t be picked up on camera or if it’s able to be covered.

Consider the Background

Before selecting your outfit, take into account the video’s backdrop. If you’re against a neutral or monochrome background, choose contrasting colours to ensure you don’t blend in. On the other hand, if the background is vibrant or patterned, opt for solid colours to avoid visual clutter.

Overall Appearance

Be mindful of how your wardrobe pieces look. Pick clothing that is clean and unwrinkled without any holes or imperfections. Also, choose items that fit well and are tailored to your body shape. A polished and well-fitted outfit not only conveys professionalism and attention to detail but also enhances your confidence which is crucial when you’re in front of the camera.

Comfort is Key

While looking professional is essential, it’s equally important to feel comfortable in your chosen outfit. Uncomfortable clothing can be distracting for you and the audience and may affect your performance. Choose fabrics that breathe well and allow for movement, especially if you’ll be sitting for an extended period. Also, be mindful of the weather and temperature and plan accordingly.

Bring Options

It’s always a good idea to bring multiple choices of clothing so you can arrive to set confident that you’ll have an outfit that will work. Many things can change the day of like the backdrop, weather and set decoration so it’s important to come prepared with options. You also may not know how your clothing will show up on camera or look in the overall frame. Some commercials may dictate specific colours to not only stay within their branding guidelines, but be complimentary on frame. Be sure to consult with the Head of Wardrobe, DP or Director to pick pieces that will make the video or commercial the best that it can be.

Dressing for a corporate video is about finding the right balance between professionalism and personal style. Your clothing should enhance your message, not distract from it. By considering your audience, role, and the visual elements of the video, you can confidently step in front of the camera knowing that your appearance is as polished as your message.

Looking to film a corporate video? Contact 5Gear Studios today!