The White Face Clown       
The whiteface is a pretty clown. True, there are several types of whiteface.

The European clown may wear just the makeup mask, no wig and almost normal street clothing.

The Pierrot is a jester clown usually in loose fitting top, tights for pants, and a floppy hat.

The classic whiteface dresses all in white, with perhaps a colored trim. The suit is usually three pieces, plus a hat. A skull cap is worn instead of a wig. The makeup is clean and neat.

The grotesque whiteface has irregular body proportions, be it a big rump, big nose, or big feet. The cotume for this clown must be made to accommodate his unusual proportions.

Last but not least, is the typical circus clown with a gathered costume, one or two piece, plus ruff at the neck. This costume is done in bright colors with contrasting ruff and trims.

All whiteface clown’s wardrobes are color coordinated and well fitted. If a tuxedo or other two piece suit is worn, a fancy shirt front will add softness and beauty. Theatrical fabrics also add beauty to this category, however, washability may be a necessary consideration which rules out such a choice.

Auguste Clown
The Auguste Clown does not have much in common with the whiteface clown except that he does wear makeup and costume. His personality is that of the rabble rouser. When appearing with the whiteface clown, the Auguste is the brunt of the joke. However, with the tramp, he becomes the instigator in control of the situation. His makeup is a fleshtone exaggerated with white usually around the mouth and eyes. Gradual shading of colors is often used. He usually has a ball nose, however, there are exceptions. He always has a wig, usually red, yellow or orange. Again, there are exceptions. The Auguste clown is known as the tailor’s nightmare, meaning his clothes do not appear to fit and colors and patterns need not match. he wears a two or three piece suit that may be too big or too short. he almost always wears baggy pants. The typical fabric is a large, bright plaid. The more gaudy the better. If using solid colors they may be mismatched. Polka dots or large stripes can also be used, even in the same suit. His necktie should be very large or very small but never of normal size. his shirt will have either a very big or very small collar. Sometimes he wears a bib front. This may or may not curl up in front. Theatrical fabrics or sequin trims are not appropriate for the Auguste wardrobe, nor is the jumper style costume. The Auguste is a notorious prankster and needs a lot of pockets to carry gags and trick supplies. His shoes should be big and loud in color. his hat may be of regular size or small size. it may be of the same fabric as his shirt or may be of a color to compliment it. However, it would be perfectly all right if it matches nothing he has on. Gloves are usually worn. They may be of any color but white is always acceptable.

A Tramp Clown
A tramp clown is a tramp in every way, costume, makeup, and character. A performing tramp clown should take this into consideration when choosing a wardrobe. A tramp suit having a lot of tatters may hinder his performance and perhaps patches could be used instead of tatters. Long ties could also be in the way as could big clown shoes. In every category of clown occupation, needs or hazards must be considered. If the costume is to be used more for appearance than actual working needs, the previous requirements may not need to be met. Instead, ways of obtaining the desired look are of first priority.

Character Clown
The character clown can be any style or type, whiteface, Auguste, or tramp but must portray a particular character. He should be immediately identifiable. The theme is to be carried all the way throughout the costume, makeup, shoes, gloves, and props. This clown must do only the things his chosen character might do. Accessories play an even greater role in the character category. A policeman should have an appropriate hat, a badge and whistle, etc. The hat and suit should match the color. A cowboy should have a cowboy hat and boots. The character clown is limited in his clowning due to the fact he must remain in character at all times.