A Mannequin head can be used on it’s own to display scarves, hats, glasses, jewelry, and ties.

Mannequin heads can also be attached to torsos and dressmaker or tailor forms. This increases the effectiveness of the form as it can be used to display accessory items such as hats, scarves etc providing a complete outfit and thereby increasing furthermore its effectiveness as a sales aid.

Why use a mannequin head at all ?

Some say that headless mannequins are better than a mannequin with a head, because the head dates the mannequin. While part of that is true, especially if a generic head is used, a correctly chosen head will position the mannequin to communicate to your targeted demographics.

For example, if you were targeting a mature, sophisticated fashion segment you would not choose a head with a youthful face, as this send the wrong message to your market and confuses the customer. They don’t know whether the displayed items relate to them or to another demographic. Remember, consistency in the promoted message or image is extremely important. A mixed message that tries to cover too diverse an audience usually comes across as non-sequitur and loses attention.

Branding and Customizing

But, you say "I cannot find the head I want, all the heads are the same or are aligned to a certain demographic". In that case you could have the head sculptured, which can often be done in a surprisingly cost-effective manner. A reference to the desired image (age, facial expression, mood, features etc) is usually all that’s required. Then after sculpting and moulding it can be affixed to the mannequin, and instantly you have your own couture or customized mannequin - one that is individual and pertains to your brand. As well as targeting your chosen audience, this cements your brand positioning further.

Grouping and arrangement of the display heads and forms is another aspect of the presentation that the visual merchandiser can create to maximize effectiveness.

Abstract Heads

Abstract heads when used with abstract bases of various forms provide an ideal way to create awareness and interest. They can be completely featureless, or have abstract facial features. And to complement the overall look, various gloss finishes can be applied which catch light reflections and makes the mannequin stand out.

Hairstyles !

One other item to consider when choosing a mannequin head is the hairstyle. While wigs can significantly complement the head, their maintenance may not be attractive. In this case the use of hard or sculptured wigs can be considered. That is, a wig that is an integral part of the head and made of the same material. The features aren’t the same as with a real wig, but it provides impression of hair and completes the mannequin head.