Ultimate Mannequin Buyers’ Guide – 10 Things You Ought to Know
Mannequins are “silent salespeople,” showing off your merchandise in a realistic way. It allows customers to see themselves, encouraging them to buy. Not all of them are alike, so here’s what retailers need to know to choose the right mannequin.
Introduction
In the mid-19th century, stores often displayed clothing on a simple wire dress form. Those evolved into full-body mannequins made from wax, wire, and papier-mache; the first ones were displayed in Paris dress shops.
Mannequins are now made from plastic, fiberglass, and plaster, which are much lighter and more durable. There are also different types, ranging from a simple mannequin head for wigs to child mannequins, male mannequins, and many more. All of them are designed to show a clothing display in a lifelike way.
1. Understand Different Types of Mannequins
There’s a mannequin to display all kinds of merchandise. Full-body mannequins can be fitted with suits, complete outfits, sportswear, or evening wear. Mannequin torsos show off sweaters, shirts, or a scarf display.
They resemble kids, male and female figures of all sizes. There are mannequins with detachable arms and legs; these are good for use in the photography trend of “ghost mannequins,” in which the image is altered to show the clothing on an invisible form.
Full-Body vs. Torso-Only
Full-body mannequins are used to show off a complete outfit, allowing for accessories and shoes. Torso-only displays shirts, sweaters, scarves, and lingerie. This type is very cost-and space-efficient.
Male, Female, and Child Mannequins
There are mannequins available to represent kids of different sizes, male, and female body types.
2. Material Options and Their Pros and Cons
Unlike the heavy, awkward mannequins of old, today's pieces are built to be lighter and more durable. Your choice will depend on how often displays are changed, the settings that they’re used in, and more.
Fiberglass Mannequins
Fiberglass is very durable. It creates a higher-end appearance in the retail space.
Plastic and Polyurethane
Plastic materials are less expensive, but still pretty durable. These materials are also very easy to clean in settings that see a lot of traffic.
Fabric-Covered or Foam Mannequins
The soft texture is perfect for displaying delicate or expensive materials. The soft shape creates a more natural look for the display than more rigid mannequins.
These create body shapes for more accurate tailoring and dressmaking.
3. Choose the Right Pose and Style
What does your brand convey? That will inform the kind of mannequin you choose. For example, some can be posed in active stances; that’s great for showing off sportswear or the like. Others are more of a neutral canvas, with an abstract look that highlights trendy or more modern items.
Realistic vs. Abstract Mannequins
Realistic mannequins are more detailed and lifelike. Abstract figures are minimalistic, making them a better option for simple, modern designs.
Static vs. Action Poses
Static mannequins are permanently posed in one position. These can be grouped for a dramatic, modern effect. They’re also good for use in “ghost mannequin” photographs.
Mannequins with adjustable limbs can create a variety of poses to evoke a story.
4. Size and Proportions Matter
Choose the right mannequin to best reflect the body shape of your ideal customer. You want the size that best shows off your merchandise. Standard mannequins may work just fine, but in some cases, a custom size may be needed for your particular customer base.
Standard vs. Custom Sizes
Standard sizes for women tend to run to current US sizes 2-4 and heights of 5’9” to 6 feet. However, they are sometimes a bit smaller (known as “vanity sizing”). For men, common sizes are 36, 38, 40, and 42. These sizes may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Custom-sized mannequins are used to show garments that are meant for specific body types, such as sleek and tailored for a high-end boutique.
How to Measure for Accuracy
Check all measurements of the garment for display, such as the fullest part of the bust and hips, and the narrowest part of the waist.
Compare these to the specifications of the mannequin.
5. Consider Detachable or Modular Mannequins
Mannequins with detachable or modular parts offer more ways to pose them. These are great for engaging window displays. Plus, they’re easier to dress and to store.
Easy Dressing and Storage
Being able to take the mannequin apart makes swapping out garments much easier, especially when it comes to delicate pieces. This type will also take up less storage space.
Interchangeable Pieces for Flexibility
The interchangeable parts offer more options for an adjustable form. Most come with flexible or rotating wrists, neck, and arms.
6. Stability and Base Options
You’ve found your mannequin; now, how will you secure it? There are different options for a base that will stay steady and in place. Your choice may be influenced by your aesthetic.
Glass vs. Metal Bases
Glass bases are typically made from commercial glass. They’re great in modern, minimalist spaces because they call attention to the mannequin. However, they can break.
Metal bases made of chrome or steel are most common. They’re very sturdy and versatile. The weight of this kind of base keeps it anchored, but it also makes it heavy to move.
Floor-Mount vs. Rod-Mount
With a floor mount, the mannequin is attached to the floor. This is good for permanent displays or areas of very high traffic where tipping over is a risk.
The rod mount is most common, securing the mannequin to the base via a rod inserted into the calf, foot, or butt on the dummy. It makes it easier to move it around.
7. Maintenance and Durability
Regularly dust mannequins with a soft cloth. Distilled water and a soft cloth are all you need to wash them. Use a little baking soda and a toothbrush to gently remove any stains. Ensure they’re completely dry before storing.
Rotate your mannequins, especially those that are in sunlight, to avoid discoloration. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight when possible. Store in a cool, dark area.
Cleaning Tips for Different Materials
Fiberglass and plastic mannequins should be dusted with a lint-free cloth. They can be wiped down with distilled water and a soft cloth. Ensure all parts are dry before re-dressing or storing.
Scratch and Chip Resistance
Use a little car wax to polish fiberglass mannequins. Use a fiberglass repair kit or epoxy resin to patch up any chips.
Medical-grade silicone oil, applied once a month, will prevent cracks on silicone models.
8. Cost vs. Quality Balance
Choosing the right mannequin comes down to how often it will be used and the quality of the merchandise to be displayed. Cheaper mannequins are fine for low-traffic areas or infrequent use (like seasonal displays).
However, if you sell luxury goods, a quality mannequin is a must. A cheap one distracts from perceived value. If you switch up your displays often or place them in high-traffic areas, pricier mannequins will pay off over the long run.
When to Invest in Premium Models
The attention to detail that’s put into premium models pays off when your brand represents high-quality or luxury. It’s also a good investment if you use them frequently; they need to stand up to multiple changes and repositioning.
When Budget Models Are Sufficient
Budget mannequins are fine for infrequent use, like at trade shows or occasional displays. They’ll also work in low-traffic areas. If visual displays aren’t a big part of your set-up, cheaper models are perfectly fine.
9. Aesthetic and Branding Considerations
At the heart of choosing mannequins is how they will reflect your overall aesthetic. Sleek, static ones may better give the modern vibe you’re going for. Those that are modular are suited to a variety of poses, or for use as “ghost mannequins.”
Are you representing a luxury lifestyle? Are visual displays a high or low priority? These must be part of your decision-making process.
Matching Mannequin Style to Store Theme
They work as “invisible salespeople,” so just as if they were real people, choose mannequins that blend with your store’s theme.
Customization Options
Beyond requesting a manufacturer to use 3D modeling to create specific dimensions or looks, mannequins can be customized using padding for a better fit. Different finishes are available, like glossy or matte. They can also be made from eco-friendly materials.
10. Where to Buy Reliable Mannequins
Saga Display is your source for all kinds of quality mannequins! We offer a variety of retail supplies, thoughtfully designed and sourced for success. And we’ve made it easy to find the right mannequin.
Conclusion
Using mannequins is vital to visual merchandising. They convey the story and the look around your stock, inspiring customers to buy.
They offer creative ways to express your brand without saying a word: sophisticated, whimsical, luxurious, down-to-earth. Put quality mannequins from Saga Display to work in your retail space!