So, the main challenge for an actor on what to wear is to balance a wardrobe that does A) appeals to a type of role they want B) while being general and balanced enough to appeal to other roles C) while being true to showcasing who they are as a person.
For this reason, actors often need to have multiple headshots done in multiple looks. It is nearly impossible in one shot to showcase you can play a villain and a cheery boyfriend or girlfriend. This is best done with two different images and looks.
Generally, there are two types of looks in actor headshots – the commercial and theatrical (dramatic). A comedic look is another consideration, but it is like a commercial look. Within a commercial and theatrical look, there can be various subcategories to consider what you might wear. For example, within commercial looks there can be many roles, like a mother figure, girl next door, or champion. In theatrical, this might be a superhero, femme fatale, or rebel.
Because no casting directors are alike, an actor might consider two commercial and two theatrical looks. One commercial look can be generalized, to appeal to the general casting director. The second look can be specific, to appeal to those casting directors that prefer specificity.
So, if you are trying to get specific for a rebel role, a leather jacket might be good. Look online for popular rebel characters to mimic. For the general theatrical role, you might consider wearing layers. Since the rebel shot might call for a leather jacket, for the general theatrical shot, you might consider a denim jacket or similar. So, in this shot you are trying to showcase you can play any dramatic role as opposed to just a rebel.
Say you want to be cast as the girl next door. This is generally a very bright, cheery but flirty look. This might involve a low-cut top. Search for wardrobe ideas online. For a more general commercial look, you might want to split the difference by wearing a top that best straddles the line of flirtatious and mom-like.
Finally, in general, avoid overly busy clothes. Plaids and stripes usually detract from viewers paying attention to your face. Solid colors are often best. Vivid colors are great. Pastels can also work, with some background color coordination. As for jewelry, be careful not to overdo this too. Of course, if you feel it is suited for a very specific look you are after, then it is up for consideration but in most cases minimize jewelry.
As for makeup, do not overdo this too. Find a balance between makeup that makes you look better, without noticing that you have caked it on. Same thing with your hair. In other words, do your hair and makeup in the same way you would when you show up for an audition, so your headshot matches how you look when you arrive. This will be pleasing to most casting directors.
What Should Business Professionals Wear for Headshots?
This is for corporate executives, entrepreneurs, sole proprietors, and similar professionals. Actors, models, and so on are also business professionals. But for these purposes, let us lump them under creative professionals.