Mannequins
Below right: Director of Universal Display, Adrian Coe, talked us through the intricate detail with which each mannequin is sculpted.
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A1 Retail were thrilled to be able to visit the workplace of Universal Display, a London based manufacturer who have developed mannequins for some high profile window displays across the globe.
Discussing mannequin trends with Coe, it is clear that the needs of clients are changing. In a bid to stay on top of their carbon footprint, a number of clients are pushing for a change in mannequin production, and a look towards recycled material. For Universal Display, this has meant a look into papier mâché mannequins, which, once finished with, can be pulped to create something new. The finish on these mannequins is much less smooth, but actually creates a texture that reflects the hard work that goes into its creation, and has a different kind of appeal for clients. Although this may not suit all fashion retailers, for those with a particular ethical stance these are an ideal way to reflect these ideals in store. Another company focused on changing trends for mannequins is proportion>london. The company has recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of their ‘ORIGINAL VINTAGE’ collection of mannequins, which celebrate antique style, with a focus on a faded and worn finish. Looking to create a new take on texture, the company has created a series of ‘RAW’
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mannequins, made from unrefined materials such as wood, papier mâché and tarnished metal. These create a vintage feel to the products, which suits a number of fashion retailers. Tanya Reynolds, Creative Director at proportion>london believes the range offers an alternative to excess; “We feel that the time has come for a deeper and more meaningful way of looking at the world of consumption, which of course has its implications on the way we sell and show product in stores. Reflective of the bigger picture in society; a kickback on the excess of luxury that has exploded into an orgy of bling, the concept of RAW is about a love of the authentic, humble and considered.”
As well as creating full mannequins, proportion>london have also created a number of bust forms and presenters for some bi name clients. The company created bust forms for the recent Alexander McQueen retrospective at New York’s Met Museum and created a magnificent bespoke copy of their iconic hoof shoe as bookends for the sale of the book that
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