Learning Mannequin Lingo:

We wanted to post a few “terms” that are used in the mannequin industry in hopes to better help the general public understand them.

Flange & Post – When someone is talking about a flange or a post they are talking about the base of the mannequin. A Flange usually slides into one of the ankles of a mannequin and is supported by the base. The reason for a Flange is to allow your mannequin to wear shoes. A Post, like a Flange attaches to the base but is a single rod that slides into the sole of the mannequin’s foot. It makes the mannequin stand more appealing and gives a cleaner look. There are a lot of mannequins that come with both options in the base making the mannequins a little more universal.

Striking – Striking is simply displaying a mannequin with wires instead of using a base to make them appear to be freestanding. Wires are tied to the mannequin parts to make them appear to float. This is a very clean look and has been used for years in high-end department stores. The only downside to this is it takes some time to do and a lot of talent to make it look correct. Striking is usually a two or three person job and trimming the mannequins may also be a hassle if you are not re-striking when presenting a new clothing line.

Trimming – The basic definition of trimming is the art of dressing a mannequin. I use the word “art” because there are some very talented trimmers. Trimming isn’t only dressing the mannequin but also dressing its surroundings. When you see a store window near the holidays and there are snow, trees, and mannequins showing the new winter line, the entire design of that window box falls under trimming.

Unbreakable Mannequins – These are usually mannequins that are not made of fiberglass but instead made of plastic. The plastic makes the mannequins more durable to damage if dropped.

Neck Block – Neck blocks are the top “cap” of a dress form or coat form. They are commonly made of wood but you can also find them as metal depending on the style of the form. They slide into the top of a form, known as “the neck”, to make the form more flattering when displayed.

Pediophobia – Pediophobia is the fear of mannequins, or fear of dolls, and is relatively common. It is believed to be a type of automatonophobia, or fear of humanoid figures. Some people are afraid of all mannequins, while others fear only a specific type of mannequin. Yes mannequins can be creepy especially the kid mannequins.

We added Pediophobia to this list because we get asked all the time.