Nike introduced plus-size mannequins in one of its stores, because people come in all shapes and sizes
Human bodies come in all shapes and sizes. But unfortunately, many brands have yet to embrace this idea. Plus-size clothing offerings are still incredibly limited, and most models still wear small sizes, even though the average woman is far from a size 2. That said, there has been some improvement when it comes to representing different bodies. For example, Nike recently introduced more inclusive mannequins in one of its stores.
CNN reports that yesterday, June 5th, Nike unveiled plus-size and para-sport mannequins in its NikeTown London store. The new, size-inclusive displays are part of the new women’s floor on the third level. In addition to the mannequins, the new women’s floor also offers an expanded collection of plus-size apparel and benefits like personal styling services, Nike reports.
"To celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of sport, the space will not just celebrate local elite and grassroot athletes through visual content, but also show Nike plus size and para-sport mannequins for the first time on a retail space," Nike said in a press release, CNN reports.
Twitter users were thrilled to see the brand take a more inclusive approach to its mannequins.
Nike Town in Oxford Circus have opened up a new women’s space on the third floor and for the first time have plus sized mannequins modelling sportswear! pic.twitter.com/FOahIJNFu0
— Tanya Compas (@TanyaCompas) June 6, 2019
If you have a body, you are an athlete. AND: REPRESENTATION MATTERS.@Nike introduces plus-size mannequins to London store https://t.co/GtlBmuXmfn via @CNNStyle
— The Chris Mosier (@TheChrisMosier) June 6, 2019
About time @Nike – great to see different shapes actually on mannequins, hopefully more companies will follow suit! 💪🏻🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/6sMDB1R4Lh
— Beth Southern 🇪🇺 (@Bethan_Southern) June 6, 2019
Bravo @Nike! 👏 The sportswear giant has upgraded their mannequins in their London flagship store to represent more diverse body types. The rest of the high street – take note… https://t.co/Y3dI6cHkcu pic.twitter.com/Yk4MckMamX
— British GLAMOUR (@GlamourMagUK) June 6, 2019
https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/1136676656872120320
This makes me so happy 💜. It can be really difficult for plus-sized individuals in our society and it is important that things even like mannequins can be used as a confidence booster. Well done @Nike pic.twitter.com/jD4DSs4Y2K
— Luke W (@lukewaltham) June 6, 2019
Nike launched its first plus-size collection in 2017, which contained 44 pieces. At the time, it included sizes 1X-3X.
It’s true that clothing collections have started to become a bit more inclusive. But in most cases, mannequins don’t look like the vast majority of shoppers.
In 2014, The Guardian reported that the average mannequin is six feet tall with a 34-inch bust, 24-inch waist, and 34-inch hips. These proportions are unrealistic. According to the CDC, the average American woman is 5’3″ and has a 38.7-inch waist. With this in mind, it’s refreshing to see a company using mannequins that reflect a diverse array of bodies.
Of course, Nike’s new mannequins are just one step toward better representation in the fashion industry, and we have to keep pushing for this to continue. With any luck, more brands will follow suit.
