Mannequins

The three main types are full body mannequins (for complete outfits), dress forms (torso only, for tops and dresses), and plastic forms (lightweight, affordable alternatives). Full body mannequins come in male, female, and child sizes. Dress forms are popular for boutiques and are available with or without heads and arms.

Full body mannequins are best for showing complete outfits including shoes and accessories — ideal for window displays and store entrances. Dress forms are more practical for everyday merchandising inside the store, easier to dress and undress, and take up less space. Most clothing stores use a few full body mannequins for key displays and dress forms for rotating featured items.

A typical clothing boutique uses 2-4 full body mannequins for window and entrance displays, plus 4-8 dress forms throughout the store. Large retail stores may use 10-20+ total. Place mannequins at store entrances, in window displays, at the ends of aisles, and near fitting rooms to inspire outfit ideas.

Commercial mannequins are typically made from fiberglass (most durable and realistic), polyethylene plastic (lightweight and affordable), or fabric-covered foam (soft, pintable dress forms). Fiberglass mannequins have the most realistic appearance and last the longest but cost more. Plastic forms are budget-friendly and good for high-volume stores.

Most full body mannequins come with a base plate and a calf or foot rod that supports the figure. Place the base on a flat surface and ensure the rod is fully inserted. For extra stability in high-traffic areas, you can use museum wax on the base or bolt the base plate to a platform. Dress forms typically have a heavy weighted base with an adjustable pole.