About the Mannequin
We see them everyday, filling the shops, standing on sidewalks, and wearing the fashion world on their slim, contoured bodies. Mannequins are the dominant featured clothing and jewelry display devices from the world’s top labels to your average bargain store. What better way to show off clothing products than by a perfectly still model that does not ask for a paycheck and works all hours? Mannequins literally shape the fashion for all varieties of clothing vendors, but regardless of the diversity of clothing these models exhibit, there are undeniable trends in the shapes and attitudes of mannequins according to the times. The word “mannequin” can also be spelled “manikin.” Each spelling is equally accepted. “Manikin” relates closer to the original Dutch word “maneken,” translating to “little man.” Today, the word mannequin refers to more general human body forms, coming in a complete version or in body part sections. On the French runway stage, models are also referred to as mannequins, giving the word a both live and fiberglass connotation. Whatever word or translation, mannequins are largely known to portray the latest trends and human forms while sporting articles from men’s underwear, to lingerie, to hats, gloves, and socks. Because of the change in many things in society, so these exhibitors of those trends shift and morph to be better suited for the times. From facial features and expressions to poses, measurements, muscle tone, and even height, mannequins are well adjusted to their environment. In the era immediately following Word War II, mannequins were designed happy smiles and shorter height. Because of the lack of raw materials, shorter mannequin’s were more economical, and the smiles welcomed the long awaited soldiers’ return home. Those who experienced this period probably did not realize such a subtle public message, but looking back, they will probably realize the relevance. Mannequins are doing more than just standing still. Have you ever stopped to consider what the maker of that Mannequin in the shop window is trying to tell you? Look at the specimens of today’s retailers such as Abercrombie, Sax, or Nordstrom. Mannequins portray the bodies we long to have. Fit and trim with balanced features, they are made from fiberglass or hi tech poly plastics to resemble blemish less human skin. When the mannequin looks good, the clothes look good, and so customers buy them. This is due to the change in emphasis in our society on fitness and fashion. If you are looking to get the clothes in your store off the racks, considered going with the trend and displaying your items with beautiful mannequins. Any business has to keep up with the times, and so do mannequins. Consider using the help of these trend advocates to spice up your sales floor.About the Author: Ron Maier is the Vice President of S
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