Ideas for How to Use Mannequins in Decorating

Using mannequins in decorating can add a touch of whimsy to any interior design style. They come in many styles, from dressmaker's dummies to full size lifelike figures. After choosing your perfect form, dress it in a way that fits in with the rest of your decor tastes. For example, in a contemporary space, put a little black dress and pearls on your mannequin, decorate it in poodle skirt and sweater for a retro look or a vintage gown in a traditional setting. Here are a few ideas for how to decorate with mannequins in every room of your home.

Foyers/Entryways/Front Porch
Place the hands to hold a sign that welcomes visitors into the house. Change it out for special events, such as wishing someone a happy birthday at a party. Put the arms upwards for a convenient place to lay coats and wraps across.

Bedrooms
Display a favorite outfit or special fashion accessories in the corner of your room. Hang your jewelry pieces on the figure for easy accessibility and functional decorations. Place your scarves, ties and purses around the neck and arms when using mannequins in decorating your bedroom instead of shoving them away in your closet.

Bathrooms
Dress the figure in a plush terry cloth robe and put the arms upwards to hold guest towels. Put other small toiletries in baskets, such as soaps and washcloths, and hang it off one of the arms next to the tub. Clip all of your different hair accessories on the head for a funky way to store your styling needs.

Living Rooms/Kitchens/Dining Rooms
Place the arms upwards to hold a tray of drinks or appetizers. Hang a basket off the arm for storage of magazines, remotes or small utensils. If you only decorate with mannequins for get-togethers, change the outfits to fit, like a jersey showcasing a favorite team for a Super Bowl party.

All of these ideas for how to use mannequins in decorating can be changed out with the seasons or the holidays. They'll actually seem to become part of the family when your change their Santa Clause outfits out for a Valentine's Day cherub, Easter Bunny costume or Fourth of July patriotic soldier uniform.