For aspiring and established models alike, the term "go-see" is one of the most common yet nerve-wracking concepts in the fashion industry. A go-see is essentially a model’s job interview. It is your opportunity to step in front of casting directors, designers, stylists, and photographers, allowing them to evaluate your look, personality, and professionalism in person.
What is a Model Go-See and How Do You Prepare?
A model go-see is a brief casting meeting where talent presents their portfolio and personality to industry decision-makers. To prepare successfully, wear a simple, form-fitting neutral outfit, keep makeup and hair completely natural, carry a professional composite card, and arrive early. Demonstrating authenticity, confidence, and polite casting etiquette is essential to leaving a lasting positive impression.
Understanding the Purpose of a Casting Call
In the fast-paced fashion hubs of the world, particularly in New York City where Face Of Fashion Management has been launching careers since 2006, casting directors see hundreds of faces a day. The purpose of a go-see is not just to see if you match the aesthetic on a mood board, but to assess how you carry yourself, how you interact with a team, and whether you possess the professional stamina required for high-pressure runway shows and editorial campaigns.
Founded by Carla Hazel, Face Of Fashion Management emphasizes that authenticity and integrity are just as crucial as physical dimensions. When a casting director books you, they are trusting you with their brand’s reputation. Your behavior at a casting is the first indicator of your professional reliability.
The Essential Go-See "Uniform"
When attending a casting, the goal is to present yourself as a blank canvas. Casting directors need to envision you in their designs, not be distracted by your personal style. To achieve this, stick to the time-tested industry uniform:
- Clothing: A plain, fitted black or white t-shirt or tank top paired with dark, form-fitting skinny jeans. Avoid heavy branding, loud patterns, or baggy clothing.
- Footwear: High heels (preferably simple black pumps or strappy heels) for runway models, or clean, neutral shoes for commercial and male models.
- Hair & Makeup: Keep makeup minimal—think a light tint, groomed brows, and lip balm. Hair should be clean, styled naturally, and kept out of your face. Bring a hair tie in case a designer asks to see your jawline.
On-Site Etiquette: Making a Lasting Impression
Your audition begins the moment you walk through the door of the casting studio, not just when you stand in front of the camera. Treat every receptionist, assistant, and fellow model with absolute respect.
Punctuality is Paramount
Arriving late to a casting is often an automatic disqualification. Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time slot. This gives you time to compose yourself, fill out any necessary sign-in sheets, and prepare mentally.
Be Prepared to Perform
A casting director might ask you to do a quick runway walk, strike a few poses, or talk briefly about yourself on camera. Practice your walk and neutral expressions regularly so you can perform on command without hesitation. Confidence is quiet, authentic, and professional.
Bring the Right Materials
Even in a digital-first era, having physical or easily accessible digital assets is critical. Always carry a professional composite card (comp card) featuring your headshot, full-body shot, measurements, and your agency’s contact details. For represented talent, ensuring your agency’s branding is clear helps casting directors know you are backed by a reputable management team.
How Face Of Fashion Management Empowers Talent
Navigating the competitive landscape of professional castings can be challenging for unrepresented models. This is where a dedicated management agency makes a vital difference. Face Of Fashion Management specializes in discovering, nurturing, and strategically positioning models for success in runway, editorial, and commercial arenas.
By providing targeted coaching, developing high-standard portfolios, and leveraging deep industry connections in NYC and beyond, Carla Hazel and her team ensure that every model entering a go-see does so with the confidence and polish that top-tier casting directors demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is a model go-see?
A go-see is an in-person or digital meeting where a fashion model introduces themselves to casting directors, designers, or brands to be evaluated for upcoming runway, editorial, or commercial opportunities.
What should I wear to a model casting call?
Wear a simple, form-fitting outfit like dark skinny jeans, a plain black or white fitted top, and appropriate footwear (high heels for women, clean neutral shoes for men). Keep makeup extremely minimal and your hair clean and natural.
How long does a model go-see last?
The actual meeting with the casting director is very brief, usually lasting between 2 to 5 minutes. However, you should prepare to wait in line for a significantly longer period depending on the size of the casting call.
Do I need agency representation to go to a casting?
While some open calls are public, major high-fashion bookings and exclusive casting opportunities with top-tier brands are generally managed through trusted talent agencies like Face Of Fashion Management.