Tips For Setting Up In-Store Mannequin Displays

478291639_8c6b699097_zWhether you own a retail clothing store or a small fashion boutique, your business will certainly benefit from the use of a mannequin display. As shoppers walk by, they’ll see your work right in front of their eyes and actually get an idea of what it looks like when worn. However, if you want your mannequin to create a positive effect, then you need to know how to properly style it.

You should never rush into styling your mannequin. If it’s not done right, it can turn customers away and have them never look back. On the other hand, if it’s done right, you’ll have repeat customers who come back to not only buy your new apparel and accessories, but to see what you have styled on your mannequin as well.

Location Matters

Before styling your mannequin, you should decide where you want to place it. If there are prominent see-through windows in your store, you should place it there for the highest level of visibility. If this isn’t an option, then placing it near the entry of your store is usually recommended. Remember, the whole purpose of a mannequin is to capture the attention of passer-bys and get them interested in the products on the mannequin, so place your mannequin in a location with high visibility.

Styling Your Mannequin: Where To Start

One of the most effective ways to utilize your mannequin is to style it in the latest designs and types of clothes in your store. Customers are always intrigued by new apparel, so use your mannequin(s) to display it.

When you dress your mannequin, you may need to custom tailor the clothes to fit their body. Not all mannequins are made in the same size and if you want clothes to properly fit them, tailoring might be necessary. An alternative method to tailoring the clothes is to simply use pins to pin up the problem areas. Look for areas where the clothes are baggy or hanging off and simply place some inconspicuous pins there. As long as you cant see the pins, then this method is okay to use.

After you’ve dressed your mannequin in clothes, it’s time to accessorize them. A lot of store owners only use clothes on their mannequins, and while this is completely fine, it’s not using the mannequin display to its full potential. If your store sells accessories such as sunglasses, necklaces or earrings, try placing them on your mannequin. Even if your store doesn’t sell any accessories, you should can still add some extra style and character to your mannequin by doing so.

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