Buying a mannequin represents a serious investment for the average vintage clothing seller. However, that is exactly what it is - an investment, which will pay dividends.Most sellers begin life as buyers and stumble upon selling when their crammed closets will take no more. The obvious place to sell the items that don't fall under the category of "keeper" is on an auction site such as eBay.

By not featuring an image in your auction, you'll reduce the number of its potential buyers at a stroke. This is because they don't feel comfortable in bidding for something they can't see. Without a mannequin, the only options open to you will be to take a picture of the item on a hanger, laid flat on the floor or bed, or modelled, either by you or a friend.

Now if you happen to look like Cameron Diaz then you may be on a winner. Sadly most of us don't.

I have even seen somebody's angst-ridden husband forced into a 50's circle skirt. Not only did he look as if he wished the earth would swallow him up but his choice of accessories, a "wife-beater"top and a particularly bushy moustache, were just plain wrong!

Even though we all know that most vintage clothes have at some point been worn, to see them in that state is not necessarily a crowd pleaser. Very few live models can pull off an image that crams the wholesome, vivacious, gorgeous and the perfect figure into one body. This applies particularly to lingerie unless you are setting out to attract a buyer who also wishes to become your most intimate pen pal. If this prospect is less than enticing and you decide to buy a mannequin or dress form, just where do you find them and what are the pitfalls? To help you in your quest, here are my top ten tips for how to find the mannequin of your dreams.

1. To eBay Or Not To eBay? That Is The Question.

Type mannequin into an eBay search and you may be surprised at the choice. The offerings will range from brand new, boxed full sized mannequins and dress forms, many of which are on "Buy it Now"options, to the occasional second-hand sale. Always check the feedback and satisfy yourself that the seller has a good rating. It can be risky buying sight unseen and a second-hand mannequin or dress form will have flaws. If you have any doubts having read the description, then do email the seller and ask more questions. If you still have doubts then don't risk it.

You might also get lucky and find a store that is closing down and is happy to sell its mannequins off cheaply. Alternatively, find out if there is a retail display supplier or mannequin manufacturer close to you. They may be willing to do a deal on end of lines because mannequins are as much a fashion item as clothes.

Most manufacturers model their mannequins on well known models and stars of the day so there is a fair rate of turnaround. You will be lucky to find a truly vintage mannequin that is free from serious faults, so when buying a modern one, try to go for a look that won?t date or be too out of place with the decade you are selling.

2. Figure it Out

Accessories and Detail

Accessories and Detail

3. Buy With Your Repertoire In Mind.

Wide leg full skirt.

4. A Rod For Your Own Back.

A detachable leg but she secures by back rod.

A mannequin that secures to its base by slotting its foot into a bolt is flexible and will suit all types of clothing, except of course, shoes.

Foot bolts allow for garment versatility.

5. Honey, I Didn't Shrink The Mannequin.

Accentuating sleeve detail.

Clothes that are too big on her can always be cinched in using a bulldog clip. If they are too small then you're stuck and you'll probably damage garments trying to squeeze your mannequin into them, just as you do when you attempt it!

Try to go for the shortest mannequin you can find because vintage ladies were fairly petite and the clothes will sit better. It will also be easier to dress a shorter mannequin because it can get exhausting reaching up to six foot all the time.

6. Strike A Pose

Accentuating sleeve detail.

7. Hair Raising

If you decide to buy a mannequin with moulded hair as opposed a flat scalp, try to get one that doesn't have too high a peak. This will make it easier to pop a wig on top should you wish. In fact investing in wigs with differing styles and colours will help you change the look of your mannequin.

8. Surprise!

When your mannequin arrives you will adore her. Rather like parents with a new baby, you may well forget she's there. . . My parents actually drove all the way home before remembering in horror that they had left a five-day old me in the supermarket. So be prepared to be scared witless when you enter a room and see a strange figure in the twilight!

By the same token, mannequins make great burglary deterrents. Leave her partially in view and many a thief can be fooled into thinking someone is home.

9. Patience Is A Virtue.

Eventually your mannequin will do something to annoy you. They can be very uncooperative when they want to be. Yell at her by all means (she won't hear you) but do not hit or throw things at her because you?ll regret it in the morning! Just take a deep breath and be gentle with her.

10. A Chip Off The Old Block.

It is inevitable that she will suffer damage here and there and the odd chip or scratch will emerge. Cover these using a flesh-tone model aeroplane paint or use the clone brush in your art software to disguise damage. If her joints seize up (it happens to us all) then try using a little WD-40 (remember to wipe away the excess or you'll stain garments) to ease the ?pain? and restore the former mobility.

No, not on you, on the dummy, dummy!!!!