Tips On Choosing Mannequins For Apparel Stores

June 30, 2016 4 min read

The right mannequins can make a world of difference in an apparel store's ability to attract new customers and generate sales. Rather than presenting garments on a rolling rack, you can place them on a realistic human form, to which customers will respond more positively. But with so many different types of mannequins available on the market, how do you know which one is right for your store?

Fixed or Adjustable Posture?

Fixed mannequins live up the namesake by remaining in a stationary, “fixed” position. This means you cannot turn their arms, elbows, legs, etc. Many retail store owners prefer fixed mannequins because they retain their shape. There's no chance of a customer accidentally bumping into a fixed-posture mannequin and changing their shape.

On the other side of the fence if an adjustable-posture mannequin, which can be adjusted at various joints and appendages. The benefit of having an adjustable-posture mannequin is the ability to change its shape and appearance. If you are tired of looking at the same mannequin week after week but don't want to purchase an entirely new mannequin, you can adjust its posture to create an entirely new appearance. Fixed-posture mannequins are also beneficial for displaying various accessories like hats or umbrellas, as you can adjust the mannequin's arms to make it appear as if they are holding and/or using the accessory.

Ghost Mannequins for Product Photos

Do you plan on taking product photos to include on your store's website or in a physical product catalog? The right photos will enhance your store's products by presenting them in the most appealing manner possible, which is why it's important to choose an appropriate mannequin for this task. Snapping photos of shirts hanging on a rolling rack or peg board, for instance, isn't exactly appealing, as it prevents shoppers from seeing how it looks on the human form. Placing the shirt on a mannequin, however, will create a more realistic appearance to which shoppers can relate; thus, boosting sales in the process.

Rather than using just any ordinary mannequin to take photos of your store's apparel and products, you should use an invisible ghost mannequin. Ghost mannequins live up their namesake by creating the impression of an invisible mannequin. The arms, head, legs, and other parts can be easily removed so the garment looks like it's floating in mid air. By making your garments appear to float in the air, you can take phenomenal photos without the distraction of mannequin appendages. These photos can then be used in your store's product catalog, brochure, website, or any other marketing material.

Gender Matters

Something else to consider when choosing a mannequin for an apparel store is the gender. You have one of three different options available: male, female, or non-gender specific. Think about the products your store offers as well as its target demographic and choose the gender that's best aligned with your store's vision. If your store sells big-and-tall men's suits, for instance, you would certainly fare better with a male mannequin. But if your store sells women's dresses, then a female mannequin would be the right choice.

Of course, there are times when you should have both male and female mannequins in your store. If your store sells both men's and women's apparel, it's probably smart idea to include both genders of mannequins. Focusing strictly on one gender mat deter customers of the opposite gender from purchasing your products.

How Much Does it Cost?

Pricing is always a factor to consider when making a purchase for a retail apparel business, and mannequins are no exception. If you end up spending too much, you could be left struggling to pay other bills necessary for running your business. Thankfully, buying mannequins for an apparel store doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg (no pun intended). MannequinMall offers one of the largest selections of high-end mannequins at rock-bottom prices. Feel free to browse around our website to see what all we offer.

Material

Don't forget to consider the material from which the mannequin is made. Some mannequins are designed with a hard shell body, offering a high level of protection from dust, debris and damage. Other mannequins, however, are designed with a soft shell body. These soft shell mannequins are particularly popular among fashion designers and retailers who make their own clothes. The soft body allows the store owner or fashion designer to hold fabric in place with pins. If you are working on a new shirt and want to keep in place, you simply stick a pin into the body of the mannequin.

Hopefully this will give you a better idea of which type of mannequin is right for your apparel store. To recap, consider the posture (fixed or adjustable), whether or not you want a ghost mannequin, the gender, the price, and the material. Covering all of these factors will ensure that you get the best mannequin for your budget.


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Verified Reviews
  • Product Reviews
  • Site Reviews
03/11/2025
JOYCE B.
United States
I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the...I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the inclusion of white gloves for handling her. We truly like her and have named her Olivia. <3 Thank you, MannequinMall!
03/08/2025
Hollie E.
United States
The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with...The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with you again. Thank you
11/22/2024
Advanced D.
United States
Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if...Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if makeup was applied. Beware, however, if purchasing shoes for these mannequins in advance of receiving them....because the molded feet are NOT flexible (like a human foot) we have had to return the shoes we purchased and exchange them for shoes at least 3 to 4 sizes larger in order to get them to fit. Not a complaint by any means, just a Cautionary Tale! Overall, we are extremely pleased with these purchases!
11/22/2024
Nicholas K.
United States
Started using it to shoot our clothing for our website. Works awesome!
11/12/2024
Trey G.
United States
I ordered one form to see if liked the quality and were pleased with our purchase. Placed an order for (10) more forms!
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
Wonderful display, want to make sure it’s secure from being knocked over. Any displays standing on one leg could easily come tumbling down if it’s in the wrong area. My only suggestion. Great for a corner display.
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
What a great company to work with I love mannequin mall I have 19 football players up in my man cave now.
08/31/2024
Diane G.
United States
I have longed for such a dress form since I was 16 years old, 56 years ago. I am very excited to finally own one and look forward to creating beautiful garments!
08/07/2024
Marc G.
United States
It has both a very classic and modern look to it. Overall very nice. The hands don't close all the way so it leaves a gap. Otherwise it would have received a 5
07/07/2024
Joseph
United States
Perfect! Love it, will buy again
06/27/2024
Mrs L.
United States
This was a gift given to me and the quality and appearance is perfect. Measurements fit me perfectly . A beautiful dress form. Well made wonderful form . I love it
06/24/2024
Edward E.
United States
I bought this product to display my HALO Master Chief armor costume…and, it is awesome! Highly recommend.
06/24/2024
Symia
United States
I’m so obsessed, shipping and delivery was quick!
06/13/2024
Tom
United States
She’s great I named her Penelope!
05/26/2024
Liliana
United States
It was a gift and my sister loved it thank you so much ❤️💕
05/02/2024
Bryan B.
United States
The mannequin was perfect; thank you!
04/29/2024
Marivel T.
United States
They worked well for us.
03/20/2024
Anthony G.
United States
Great quality and arrived quickly.
03/15/2024
Carol J.
United States
Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This...Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This is good for shock absorption. The boxes were clearly marked "fragile, handle with care". The face of the mannequin had a foam mask to protect her nose from breaking. As for the mannequin herself (model MM-Z25), quality is great, all the pieces were there and the stand has a foot support as well as a calf support for better dressing options. The joints are all metal threads and posts, so they can withstand a lot of position changes without wear and tear issues. All it takes is an Allen wrench to move or remove any limbs. The mannequin's face is pleasant (not pouty like some can be), she has nice eyelashes and light colored lipstick and rouge. She has holes in her ears for earrings. I had no problem assembling her. Put one foot on the stand first and work your way up from there. She comes apart easily for dressing. We remove her from the stand and sit her on our sewing studio couch sometimes for a little change and she looks so real! We have several "normal people wigs" that fit her head fine.
03/13/2024
Susan
United States
I love it. It is beautiful high quality 😍
03/12/2024
Alex G.
United States
fantastic experience! as described, nicely made & arrived quickly. for the price I think its outstanding.
03/07/2024
Oconee M.
United States
This is the third mannequin we have purchased from here. Our original choice was out-of-stock, but we were contacted promptly and offered a substitute. Shipping was super fast! Easy to assemble!
03/05/2024
SUZETTE A.
United States
Smooth and Easy!
02/13/2024
Patrick G.
United States
Very pleased with the service provided. The mannequin is high quality looks stunning.
02/13/2024
Bryan B.
United States
She is great! We bought her for our clothing store. We received her very fast and she was packaged exceptionally. We would love to buy many more in the future. Thank you for making our first purchase from you wonderful.
02/12/2024
Maureen H.
United States
She’s beautiful! Perfect for the flower exhibit she will be in at the art museum
02/03/2024
Kend P.
United States
It’s perfect for product photography. Only for starts because the product seemed used, lots of scratches and dents and dirty. Overall good purchase.
01/27/2024
Mandi M.
United States
We love the mannequins but 3 hands had broken fringes and the glass base is shattered on 1. Other than that they look really amazing
01/24/2024
Pamela H.
United States
Very pleased with the mannequin I purchased. Nice quality stand, wheels and form. Easy to assemble.
01/09/2024
AQUEELAH
United States
The Mannequin met all my expectations and the assembly was easy!
REVIEWS
  • Product Reviews
  • Site Reviews
03/11/2025
JOYCE B.
United States
I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the...I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the inclusion of white gloves for handling her. We truly like her and have named her Olivia. <3 Thank you, MannequinMall!
03/08/2025
Hollie E.
United States
The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with...The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with you again. Thank you
11/22/2024
Advanced D.
United States
Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if...Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if makeup was applied. Beware, however, if purchasing shoes for these mannequins in advance of receiving them....because the molded feet are NOT flexible (like a human foot) we have had to return the shoes we purchased and exchange them for shoes at least 3 to 4 sizes larger in order to get them to fit. Not a complaint by any means, just a Cautionary Tale! Overall, we are extremely pleased with these purchases!
11/22/2024
Nicholas K.
United States
Started using it to shoot our clothing for our website. Works awesome!
11/12/2024
Trey G.
United States
I ordered one form to see if liked the quality and were pleased with our purchase. Placed an order for (10) more forms!
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
Wonderful display, want to make sure it’s secure from being knocked over. Any displays standing on one leg could easily come tumbling down if it’s in the wrong area. My only suggestion. Great for a corner display.
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
What a great company to work with I love mannequin mall I have 19 football players up in my man cave now.
08/31/2024
Diane G.
United States
I have longed for such a dress form since I was 16 years old, 56 years ago. I am very excited to finally own one and look forward to creating beautiful garments!
08/07/2024
Marc G.
United States
It has both a very classic and modern look to it. Overall very nice. The hands don't close all the way so it leaves a gap. Otherwise it would have received a 5
07/07/2024
Joseph
United States
Perfect! Love it, will buy again
06/27/2024
Mrs L.
United States
This was a gift given to me and the quality and appearance is perfect. Measurements fit me perfectly . A beautiful dress form. Well made wonderful form . I love it
06/24/2024
Edward E.
United States
I bought this product to display my HALO Master Chief armor costume…and, it is awesome! Highly recommend.
06/24/2024
Symia
United States
I’m so obsessed, shipping and delivery was quick!
06/13/2024
Tom
United States
She’s great I named her Penelope!
05/26/2024
Liliana
United States
It was a gift and my sister loved it thank you so much ❤️💕
05/02/2024
Bryan B.
United States
The mannequin was perfect; thank you!
04/29/2024
Marivel T.
United States
They worked well for us.
03/20/2024
Anthony G.
United States
Great quality and arrived quickly.
03/15/2024
Carol J.
United States
Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This...Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This is good for shock absorption. The boxes were clearly marked "fragile, handle with care". The face of the mannequin had a foam mask to protect her nose from breaking. As for the mannequin herself (model MM-Z25), quality is great, all the pieces were there and the stand has a foot support as well as a calf support for better dressing options. The joints are all metal threads and posts, so they can withstand a lot of position changes without wear and tear issues. All it takes is an Allen wrench to move or remove any limbs. The mannequin's face is pleasant (not pouty like some can be), she has nice eyelashes and light colored lipstick and rouge. She has holes in her ears for earrings. I had no problem assembling her. Put one foot on the stand first and work your way up from there. She comes apart easily for dressing. We remove her from the stand and sit her on our sewing studio couch sometimes for a little change and she looks so real! We have several "normal people wigs" that fit her head fine.
03/13/2024
Susan
United States
I love it. It is beautiful high quality 😍
03/12/2024
Alex G.
United States
fantastic experience! as described, nicely made & arrived quickly. for the price I think its outstanding.
03/07/2024
Oconee M.
United States
This is the third mannequin we have purchased from here. Our original choice was out-of-stock, but we were contacted promptly and offered a substitute. Shipping was super fast! Easy to assemble!
03/05/2024
SUZETTE A.
United States
Smooth and Easy!
02/13/2024
Patrick G.
United States
Very pleased with the service provided. The mannequin is high quality looks stunning.
02/13/2024
Bryan B.
United States
She is great! We bought her for our clothing store. We received her very fast and she was packaged exceptionally. We would love to buy many more in the future. Thank you for making our first purchase from you wonderful.
02/12/2024
Maureen H.
United States
She’s beautiful! Perfect for the flower exhibit she will be in at the art museum
02/03/2024
Kend P.
United States
It’s perfect for product photography. Only for starts because the product seemed used, lots of scratches and dents and dirty. Overall good purchase.
01/27/2024
Mandi M.
United States
We love the mannequins but 3 hands had broken fringes and the glass base is shattered on 1. Other than that they look really amazing
01/24/2024
Pamela H.
United States
Very pleased with the mannequin I purchased. Nice quality stand, wheels and form. Easy to assemble.
01/09/2024
AQUEELAH
United States
The Mannequin met all my expectations and the assembly was easy!
REVIEWS