The goal is for a wider spectrum of women to be able to see what the clothes will actually look like on them. This use of “plus size mannequins” is part of the wider trend toward truthful advertising. The point of all this is to bring an added level of realism and authenticity to the shopping experience.

In new research from Washington State University the average American woman is between a 16 and 18 compared to the average store mannequin which may be a size 4. The majority of their customers are larger than their current mannequins, and that it’s about time they feel represented and included, instead of demonized for their size. Because the truth is larger mannequins aren’t promoting obesity; they’re reflecting reality.

According to Business Insider, those labeled as “plus-size” account for approximately 67% of the apparel-purchasing population, bringing in a retail revenue of nearly $16 billion. Therefore, it could be financially foolish to not display mannequins of larger sizes, even within non-specialty stores.

Press Coverage of Plus Sized Mannequins for the Fashion and Retail Industries