Mannequins FAQs
The Ultimate Guide to Retail Mannequins:
Visual Merchandising & Display
Mannequins are your silent salespeople. The right choice can elevate your brand, improve garment fit, and drive sales. From impact-resistant plastics to premium fiberglass finishes, this guide helps you choose the perfect model for your retail space.
Effective visual merchandising can increase sales by over 50% by showing customers how to style items.
Our PE plastic mannequins are virtually unbreakable, reducing long-term replacement costs.
We hold stock in our UK warehouse for immediate dispatch to your store.
At a Glance: Which Mannequin Do I Need?
| Style | Key Feature | Best Application | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Realistic (Egg Head) | Defined Facial Features | High Fashion & Boutique | Medium (Fiberglass) |
| Abstract / Headless | Clean, Modern Look | Contemporary Retail & Sport | High (PE Plastic Available) |
| Half-Form / Torso | Compact & Tabletop | Counter Tops & Shirts | High (Plastic/Fabric) |
| Articulated | Poseable Limbs | Activewear & Creative Displays | Medium |

1. Materials: Fiberglass vs. Plastic
What is the difference between Fiberglass and Plastic?
Fiberglass is the traditional choice for high-end retail. It offers a superior, smooth finish (high gloss or matte) and realistic detail definition. However, it can chip if dropped.
PE Plastic (Polyethylene) is a modern, eco-friendly alternative. It is virtually unbreakable, lightweight, and recyclable. It is ideal for busy stores where mannequins are moved frequently.
Which finish is more durable?
Plastic is physically more durable against impact.
If you have a high-traffic store where customers might bump into displays, PE Plastic is the safer investment. Fiberglass offers a more premium visual finish but requires careful handling during dressing changes.
Are the paints scratch-resistant?
Our mannequins use high-grade commercial paints.
Matte finishes (white/black) are excellent at hiding minor fingerprints and dust compared to High Gloss. However, all painted surfaces should be handled with care—we recommend removing jewellery (rings/watches) before dressing the mannequin to avoid scratching the paintwork.
Expert Insight:
"Consider the Weight."
Plastic mannequins are significantly lighter than fiberglass. If your staff change window displays weekly, lightweight plastic models reduce fatigue and the risk of accidents during lifting.
2. Dressing & Usability
How easy are they to dress?
Very easy due to detachable limbs.
Our full-body mannequins feature detachable arms, hands, torsos, and often one leg. This allows you to dress shirts and trousers easily without stretching the fabric. Most use simple bayonet or magnetic fittings for quick assembly.
Can I put shoes on the mannequin?
Yes, if it has a 'Calf Spigot'.
Check the product description for "Calf Spigot" fitting. This attachment connects the stand to the back of the calf, leaving the foot completely free for shoes. Mannequins with only a "Foot Spigot" (hole in the sole) cannot wear shoes easily.
Do the bases provide stability?
Yes, we use heavy-duty bases.
Most models come with a Tempered Glass Base or a Brushed Metal Base. These are weighted to ensure stability even when the mannequin is dressed in heavy winter coats.
Are 'Headless' mannequins better?
They are better for focusing on the clothes.
Headless mannequins are timeless and don't alienate any demographic. They draw the eye immediately to the neckline and the garment details rather than the face. They also don't require wigs or makeup maintenance.
3. Types: Male, Female, Child & Torsos
What sizes are your mannequins?
We aim for standard retail sizing.
Our female mannequins are typically UK Size 8-10 (standard model sample size). Male mannequins typically represent a 38-40" chest. Check individual product dimensions for exact height, chest, waist, and hip measurements.
Do you sell Plus Size mannequins?
Yes, we stock curvaceous models.
Reflecting real body diversity is important in modern retail. We offer fuller-figured mannequins to help customers visualize how garments fit on different body types.
Why use a Half-Form (Torso)?
Space-saving and cost-effective.
Torsos are perfect for counter-top displays (impulse buys) or for retailers selling only upper-body garments (t-shirts, jackets). They take up zero floor space and are easy to move around the store.
What are 'Abstract' features?
Minimalist, stylized facial features.
Abstract mannequins (often called "Egg Head") have smooth, featureless faces or very subtle hints of a nose/lips. This creates a high-end, modern artistic look that doesn't date as quickly as realistic faces with makeup.
Elevate Your Display
Browse our extensive collection of commercial-grade mannequins designed for the UK high street.
View All MannequinsThe Displaysense Difference: Why We Are #1
Displaysense has been supplying the UK's biggest retailers for over 45 years. We don't sell flimsy props; we sell commercial tools designed to increase your sales.
Unbreakable Ranges
Our dedicated range of PE Plastic mannequins offers industry-leading durability, perfect for busy shop floors.
Premium Finishes
From deep Matte Black to pristine Gloss White, our finishes are applied to commercial standards to resist fading.
Stability First
We use heavy tempered glass or metal bases to ensure your display stays upright, protecting your stock and your customers.
UK Stock Availability
Need to refresh your window display tomorrow? We hold massive stock levels in the UK for fast dispatch.
45+ Years Expertise
Established industry leaders in display solutions since 1978.
Own-Brand Design
We manufacture our own products to ensure strict quality control.
Certified Quality
Built to withstand the demands of a busy retail environment.
UK Support Team
Expert advice available directly from our UK warehouse.