Mannequins

Mannequins are essential in retail for displaying clothing and accessories in a visually appealing way. They help bring garments to life by showing customers how they would look when worn, creating a connection between the product and the shopper. Mannequins also enhance the store’s visual merchandising strategy, attracting attention and driving customer engagement.

Mannequins are crafted from durable materials like fibreglass, wood and fabric, or high-quality plastic, and they are often hand-finished with realistic features and details. The cost reflects the quality, durability, and craftsmanship involved in producing them. Additionally, specialty mannequins with custom poses or finishes may be priced higher due to their unique design and limited availability.

Yes, mannequins can increase sales by effectively displaying clothing and accessories in a way that inspires customers. They allow customers to visualise how garments will look when worn, which encourages purchasing. Well-dressed mannequins create eye-catching displays that can boost foot traffic and increase the likelihood of impulse buys.

The best size mannequin depends on the type of clothing you sell and your target audience. Standard mannequins typically represent sizes 8-12 for women and medium for men. However, it’s important to choose a size that aligns with your brand and customer base. Some retailers may opt for plus-size or petite mannequins to reflect their product offering.

Store mannequins come in various forms, each suited to different display needs. Some of the most common types include:

• Adult Mannequins: Life-size models representing full-body adult figures, used to display a variety of clothing such as suits, dresses, and casual wear.
• Child Mannequins: These are scaled-down versions of adult mannequins, designed to display children’s clothing in retail environments.
• Hanging Bodyforms: Lightweight torso mannequins without arms or legs that can be suspended from the ceiling, wall, or rail. These are ideal for saving floor space and displaying tops or lingerie.
• Torsos and Bases: Partial mannequins that include only the upper body (torso), often mounted on a base. They are used to display tops, lingerie, or accessories in a smaller, more compact format.

This categorisation covers different styles and purposes, helping retailers find the right mannequin for their display needs.

The best type of mannequin depends on your store’s needs and the products you’re showcasing. Full-body mannequins are ideal for displaying complete outfits, including accessories, and can be posed to create dynamic displays. Torso mannequins or bodyforms are great for smaller spaces and are typically used to display tops, shirts, or lingerie. Hanging bodyforms are perfect for saving floor space and showcasing items like dresses or swimwear. If your focus is on children’s clothing, child mannequins are essential for creating relatable displays for your target audience. When choosing a mannequin, consider how it fits with your store’s style, brand, and the type of clothing being displayed.

Neutral colors such as white, black, or grey are popular because they complement any clothing and don’t distract from the garments on display. White mannequins are often used for a clean, modern look, while black or grey can add sophistication. Some stores may choose flesh-toned mannequins for a more realistic appearance.

When choosing a mannequin, consider your target audience, store aesthetic, and the type of clothing you sell. For formalwear or high-end fashion, full-body mannequins with detailed features and a polished finish work well to showcase complete outfits. If you’re displaying casual or everyday wear, simpler forms like torsos or hanging bodyforms may be more suitable, allowing the focus to remain on the clothing. It’s also important to consider the size and proportion of the mannequin to match your customer base. Durability is key if the mannequins will be moved or changed frequently, so opt for materials that can withstand daily use. Finally, ensure that the mannequin aligns with your store’s overall design and branding.

Most female mannequins are based on standard sizes, typically representing size 8-10 in Australian sizes. However, mannequins are available in other sizes, including petite and plus-size, to reflect a broader range of body types.

To style a mannequin, start by dressing it in garments that complement each other, such as coordinating tops, bottoms, and accessories. Ensure the clothes fit properly by pinning them at the back if necessary. Finish the look with accessories like hats, scarves, or handbags, and adjust the pose of the mannequin to highlight the key features of the outfit.

The best color for a mannequin depends on your store’s aesthetic and the image you want to convey. White or neutral-colored mannequins are versatile and work with any display, while black mannequins offer a more dramatic, sleek appearance.

Mannequins typically wear a shoe size between 6 and 8 for women and 8 to 10 for men, though this can vary depending on the specific mannequin model. Most mannequins are designed with proportional feet to complement the rest of the body.