What are adjustable mannequins?

If you’re a dressmaker, seamstress, or just like to play around with different fabrics to try and make your own clothes, it’s likely that you know (and maybe even own) an adjustable mannequin. Made with the sole purpose of being able to adjust to different sizes, adjustable mannequins are designed to be used to make different garments for different shapes and sizes.

In this article, we’ll explore what adjustable mannequins are, run through some of their key features, explain their advantages and drawbacks, and run through some of the standard applications of adjustable mannequins! So, let’s get into it,

What are adjustable mannequins?

Adjustable mannequins, otherwise known as adjustable dressmakers dummies, are a type of mannequin, primarily used by fashion designers and seamstresses, that can be modified to work for varying body measurements and proportions. 

Adjustable mannequins usually feature dials or mechanisms that allow the user to adjust the size of the bust/ chest, waist, hips, back length and neck size, alongside an adjustable stand that can change the height of the form.

Key features of adjustable mannequins

Adjustable mannequins stand out from normal fixed mannequins due to their ability to adapt to various dimensions. They typically include:

• Size modifications: Features like dials, knobs, or mechanisms enable adjustments to key areas such as the bust, waist, hips, back length, and neck size. This makes them an invaluable tool for working with a wide range of clothing styles or body shapes.
• Height adjustability: Most models come with a stand that allows users to modify the height of the form, ensuring the mannequin can cater to different garment lengths or user preferences.

These functionalities make adjustable mannequins ideal for tailoring, fitting, and displaying garments with precision.

What are the advantages of using adjustable mannequins?

Adjustable mannequins have a host of different benefits when compared to standard static or fixed mannequins. Ultimately, your choice of mannequin depends on your requirements for use and size, but let’s explore some of the key advantages of adjustable mannequins:

• Versatility: The customisable features of adjustable make them suitable for a wide range of clothing styles and sizes. This is why they are often chosen by tailors and designers, as these individuals only require one mannequin to make a number of different garments, rather than having to invest in multiple.
• Precision: Tailors and designers can achieve a more accurate fit when using adjustable mannequins, enhancing the quality of their garments. This is particularly important for tailors who have been tasked with making a garment fit a single person, or for dressmakers who are designing clothing for themselves.
• Efficiency: Adjustable forms streamline the fitting process, saving time and effort during garment creation and reducing the amount of time a ‘human model’ (e.g. the person whose clothes are being fitted) is needed.

Adjustable mannequins offer unmatched flexibility, precision, and efficiency, making them an indispensable tool for designers, tailors, and dressmakers looking to create garments with accuracy.

What are the drawbacks of using adjustable mannequins?

Although adjustable mannequins provide numerous benefits, they are not without their challenges. Depending on your specific requirements, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Stability: The mechanisms that make adjustable mannequins so versatile can also sometimes reduce their overall stability, especially when adjusting to extreme sizes or heights.
• Durability: Frequent adjustments can lead to wear and tear over time, particularly in lower-quality models. This can affect the longevity of the mannequin.
• Precision limits: While adjustable mannequins are versatile, they may not offer the exact proportions or customisation needed for highly specialised designs or unique body shapes.
• Cost: High-quality adjustable mannequins are often more expensive than static or fixed forms, which may not be feasible for all budgets.

Despite their versatility, the drawbacks of adjustable mannequins may make them less suitable for certain tasks or budgets, highlighting the importance of choosing the right mannequin for your specific needs.

Who may need an adjustable mannequin?

While adjustable mannequins have significant benefits, they definitely aren’t for everyone. Deciding on whether or not you require an adjustable mannequin depends on the industry you are in and the requirements of the mannequin. 

To help you make this decision, let’s take a look at some of the industries that adjustable mannequins are widely in:

• Fashion design studios: Designers use these forms to ensure their creations fit a diverse clientele.
• Tailoring shops: Tailors rely on adjustable dummies for precise garment fittings, especially for custom orders.
• Educational settings: Fashion schools often incorporate these tools to train students in garment construction and fitting techniques.

While adjustable mannequins are essential for industries like fashion design, tailoring, and education, they may not be the best choice for retail stores or museums, where fixed mannequins often provide the stability and aesthetic appeal required for long-term displays.

Can adjustable mannequins be customised like their fixed counterparts?

Yes, just like their non-customisable counterparts, adjustable mannequins are available in a variety of finishes, materials, and styles to meet specific needs. For example, adjustable mannequins can come in a number of different materials. Common materials include fibreglass, plastic, and fabric-covered papier-mache. Each offers unique advantages, such as durability, weight, or a realistic appearance. Many mannequins are covered in fabric like calico, offering a neutral surface for pinning or draping fabric during the design process.

On top of a choice of material, many adjustable mannequins also come with the options of adding fixed, padded, or wooden articulated arms, and even a head, allowing users to adjust poses for added versatility.

How Proportion London Can Help

If you’re in search of high-quality mannequins, Proportion London offers a range of expertly crafted options. Our Workroom Collection is specifically designed for dressmakers, designers, and seamstresses, featuring classic bust forms made using traditional papier-mache techniques and covered in calico. While these mannequins are not adjustable as standard, we provide bespoke services to meet unique requirements.

With decades of experience, we work with clients across the globe, from high-street retailers to luxury boutiques and world-renowned museums. Whether you need a mannequin for design, display, or bespoke customisation, Proportion London can provide a solution tailored to your needs. Discover more about our collections or contact us to explore custom options today.