Guide to Mannequins

Boost clothing sales with mannequins and body forms

By Frances Sharpe

Uncommonly
Useful

8.5

out of 10

Add Your Comments

Nothing catches a shopper's eye like a mannequin. And studies show that clothing sells better when it's displayed on mannequins and body forms. That's because mannequins and body forms bring clothing to life and let customers get a better look at the fit and fabric. Ideal for both retail environments and trade shows, mannequins can lead shoppers through your store or entice them to stop at your trade show booth. Mannequin styles are constantly evolving and today's mannequins and body forms look more natural and display clothing better than ever before.

When choosing mannequins for your retail store or trade show business:

1. Select mannequins in standing, seated or action poses.
2. Choose women's, men's or children's mannequins to fit your needs.
3. Consider using body forms rather than a full-size mannequin if space is limited.
4. Consider buying mannequins in skin tones that reflect your shoppers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Full-size mannequins

Typically made of fiberglass, full-size mannequins may be sold as a single unit or in separate, attachable pieces. Prices usually depend on style and flexibility - the more flexible, the higher the price. For most retail environments, mannequins with positionable arms and legs are sufficient to provide a variety of poses.

I recommend: For a wide selection of full-size mannequins, visit Allen Display or S&L Store Fixtures. If you prefer high-end, flexible mannequins, view the choices at Tobart Mannequin.

Body forms

Don't have room for full-size mannequins? Consider body forms, including torso forms, butt forms, hand forms, head forms and leg forms. Space-saving body forms can be placed on countertops or tabletops and can be used to sell clothing, accessories, sporting goods and more.

I recommend: TRIO Display offers a full range of body forms at a variety of price points.

Specialty mannequins

For some retailers and clothing vendors, standard mannequins simply aren't quite right. A number of specialty mannequins are available to suit the needs of specialty retailers that sell sports apparel, maternity wear or lingerie.

I recommend: The Mannequin Store offers traditional mannequins in addition to specialty mannequins, such as pregnant mannequins and sexy mannequins for lingerie. For sports mannequins, try TRIO Display.

Used mannequins and cheap mannequins

If you want the benefits of displaying clothing on mannequins but don't have the budget, check into used mannequins and cheap alternatives. Inexpensive options include half round display forms, which are injection molded plastic and can be hung from almost anywhere.

I recommend: For used mannequins and inexpensive alternatives, visit Gershel Brothers New & Used Store Fixtures.

Inflatable mannequins for trade shows and travel

Traveling to trade shows with mannequins can be a hassle. Inflatable mannequins are lightweight and easy to pack.

I recommend: The Mannequin Store offers a complete line of inflatable mannequins, in female, male and child models. Full-size inflatable mannequins and body forms are available.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

Change the look of your mannequins by investing in a variety of wigs and alternating them often.
Mannequins are available in a variety of skin tones and in variety of colors, including bright colors, black or white.
The standard female mannequin is 5'11" and a size 4 or 6. However, plus-sized female mannequins are gaining in popularity.
Dressing mannequins isn't easy and can take some time. Seated mannequins are especially difficult to dress.

The official source of Mannequins is the Mannequins page at Business.com