Mannequins Key Terms

Learn the terms you need to buy the perfect mannequin for your merchandise

Mannequins come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and poses. Whether you sell sportswear, tuxedos, dresses or underwear, chances are you display at least a few of your store's outfits on one of these human replicas. Mannequins themselves are relatively easy to use, but being familiar with the following mannequins key terms can help you choose the right models for your business, which can save you money and draw in more customers.

 

Abstract mannequin

Unlike realistic mannequins, which have human facial features, abstract mannequins have blank faces and less-defined figures. However, manufacturers still build them to fit into regular clothes so these mannequins make good decorative pieces for in-store displays.
Try: To get a feel for how abstract mannequins look, check out the current lineup at Mannequins International.

Base flange

The base flange is the flat plate that secures the mannequin's support rod and keeps the mannequin from tipping over. You can screw the plate onto a larger base or directly into the floor.
Try: Paylay Display Industries provides pictures of its base flanges, which it sells separately from the mannequins.

Dickey

Dickeys are detachable fabric or plastic inserts that you can use to simulate the fronts of button-down shirts. They are especially useful for mannequins wearing coats, blazers or suit jackets and are much easier to put on a mannequin than regular long-sleeve shirts.
Try: Mannequin Madness offers a basic definition of a dickey.

Grouping

Manufacturers design groupings of two or more mannequins so you can display the mannequins together. They usually combine a man and a woman mannequin, but some groupings feature children or even animal mannequins.
Try: Wanderer Displays has a photo of a grouping of women mannequins.

Neck block

A neck block is a piece of metal that manufacturers use to cap the neck of a headless mannequin. You can find neck blocks finished in brass or chrome to give the mannequin an elegant, professional look. Shop owners use these types of mannequins to model evening and business wear.
Try: You can see examples of neck blocks in different finishes and shapes at MannequinExperts.com.

Rig, or rigging

The rig, or rigging, consists of the padding and cushions that you can add to the mannequin to give it a fuller, more realistic figure. Since each designer's clothes tend to fit differently, you can use rigging to adjust the shape of the mannequin so the merchandise looks its best on display.
Try: The Wonder Woman Museum shows how using rigging can help achieve the proper shape for a mannequin.

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