In the fashion and retail industries , mannequins are an essential tool for displaying and promoting products. These display figures are not only used to showcase clothes and accessories in an attractive way , but also to establish a brand's identity and provide a professional and engaging experience for customers . From luxury boutiques to fast fashion stores, from bespoke tailors to fashion shows, various types of mannequins are used to provide realistic styling .
This article will take a closer look at the types, characteristics, and uses of mannequins from the perspectives of the fashion, sports, interior, and advertising industries. 
1.What is a mannequin and why is it important ?
A **mannequin** is a human-shaped model for displaying fashion items and accessories , and is used in stores, showrooms, exhibitions, etc. Using the right mannequin can improve the shopping experience and increase sales. 
1.1. Why mannequins contribute to increased sales
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Attracts customer attention : Clothes displayed on mannequins are more likely to catch the eye than products on a shelf.
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Provides a realistic wearing image : Customers can visually check the silhouette and styling when wearing the garment.
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Emphasise brand identity : By using mannequins that match the theme of the store and brand, a unified shop design can be achieved.
1.2. Difference between static and dynamic mannequins
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Static mannequin : A fixed pose, standing or sitting.
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Dynamic mannequin (movable mannequin) : The joints can be moved and it can take different poses.
2. Types of mannequins for different purposes
Mannequins are classified into different types depending on their purpose. There are mannequins specialized for each field, such as fashion stores, exhibitions, sporting goods stores, advertising industry, interior design, etc.
2.1. Retail Mannequins
This type of mannequin is primarily used in apparel shops and boutiques and comes in the following varieties:
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Full-body mannequin : Ideal for displaying complete outfits.
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Torso mannequin (upper body) : For displaying shirts, jackets and tops.
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Leg mannequin (lower body) : Specialized for displaying pants, skirts, and shoes.
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Head & neck mannequin : Used to display hats, glasses and accessories.
2.2.Sports Mannequins
Sporting goods stores use mannequins suitable for selling sportswear and workout gear. 
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DYNAMIC POSES : Recreate movements like running, weightlifting, yoga, soccer and more.
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Muscle mannequin : Perfect for displaying fitness wear and bodybuilding products.
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Durable materials : Model made from reinforced plastic and fiberglass.
2.3. Children's Mannequins
These mannequins are used to display children's and baby clothes, and come in different sizes for different ages. 
2.4. Luxury & Artistic Mannequins
Uniquely designed mannequins used by luxury brands, fashion shows, and galleries.
3. Types of mannequins by material
There are many different materials used to make mannequins, each with their own benefits and suitable uses.
3.1. Fiberglass mannequins
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Features : Lightweight, durable, smooth surface.
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Use :High-end apparel shops, boutiques.
3.2. Plastic mannequins
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Features : Low cost and high impact resistance.
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Uses : Fast fashion stores, outlet shops.
3.3. Wooden mannequin
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Features : Natural feel, minimalist design.
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Uses : Custom tailoring boutiques, traditional craft stores.
3.4. Metal mannequin
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Features : Modern design, durable.
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Uses : Industrial style store, art exhibition.
4. How to choose the best mannequin
4.1. Choosing a mannequin that matches your brand's style
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Luxury brand → Made from luxurious fiberglass.
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Casual brand → Lightweight plastic mannequin.
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Natural style shop → Wooden mannequin.
4.2. Selecting the right size for your target customers
Choose mannequins that fit your target demographic (youth, adult, plus size, etc.).
4.3. Color and finish selection
White and black are classic and go with any brand, while gold and silver are perfect for creating a luxurious look. 
5. Summary
Mannequins play an important role in the fashion and retail industries , contributing greatly to sales and establishing a brand image. There are many different types of mannequins, from static to dynamic, from sports to art, each suited to different purposes.
By choosing the best mannequins and utilizing the right display strategy, you can provide an attractive shopping environment for your customers and lead to the success of your brand.
