1. Pierrot clown

The pierrot clown is the most stylish of all clowns. Dressed in black-and-white, high-contrast outfits with collars, cone-shaped hats and white face paint often blemished by a single tear, the pierrot clown’s look is incredibly dramatic and devastatingly iconic. This clown is the best because there is one in all of us. Characterized by paradox, this sad clown uses comedy as a release for psychological unease or as a front to hide their negative emotions and internal struggles. Think “laughing through the pain.”

2. White-face clown

The white-face clown is classic. Known for their colorful outfits, curly wigs and red-and-white face paint, the white-face clown is a staple for any circus or stage performance. They are cheerful, clumsy and expressive, leaning on physical or slapstick comedy to entertain their audiences. Typically acting as the ring leader or straight man, the white-face clown organizes and sets in motion any gag, trick or routine performed by its group. They are the one ushering the 12 others into the two-seater car, the boss clown.

3. Tramp clown

Also known as the hobo clown, the tramp clown has a shabbier, downtrodden look. Common characteristics of the tramp clown include stubble, painted eyes and mouth, a tattered suit, fingerless gloves and a bindle. They are the butt of every joke, the one who gets fooled by the squirting flower, the last one in the car with a kick to the rear. Unlike most clowns, the tramp clown is distinctively American. Many believe that they were inspired by vagabonds who rode the railways during the Great Depression.

4. Auguste clown

If you’re afraid of clowns, it’s probably because of the auguste clown. They are often the butt of white-face clown shenanigans and embody a chaotic demeanor. They are the uglier brother of the white-face clown, trading the all-white makeup base for a flesh-tone canvas. Painting only their exaggerated facial features, their look is mix-matched to reflect their fumbling, klutzy personality. They wear baggy clothes, oversized ties and tiny hats for the same reason. 

5. Mime

While mimes probably aren’t the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of clowns, they still fit the bill. The mime harnesses both the comedy and drama of everyday life into striking physical performances. Without the use of words, these performances are extremely expressive and often choreographed in a way akin to dance. Known for their tight, minimalistic clothing, black-and-white makeup and classic striped shirt, the mime has made its mark through silent acting and serving looks.