Eric Feigenbaum, renowned for his contributions to the visual merchandising world, has launched his highly anticipated book, Profiles of the Mannequin, with an opening event hosted at Ralph Pucci’s iconic showroom in New York City. The gathering brought together leading figures from the fashion, art, and design industries, who sipped wine and exchanged stories about the fascinating history of mannequins.
Feigenbaum’s book delves deep into the cultural and historical significance of mannequins, tracing their evolution from the headless models of the early 1900s to the cutting-edge virtual figures of today. The study doesn’t just focus on the physical transformations of these display figures but also explores the broader societal shifts they reflect, including changes in gender, race, and body type representation.
Tom Beebe, Judy Bell, Candi Pratts Price.
Profiles of the Mannequin highlights the mannequin’s role not only as a tool in fashion but as a mirror of cultural movements. Feigenbaum connects these silent figures to key moments in art, current affairs, and the humanities, offering a thoughtful reflection on how mannequins have evolved alongside the social consciousness of their time.
Ralph Pucci’s showroom, itself a hub for the celebration of design and artistry, was the setting for this launch, as attendees mingled among the mannequins that have been a staple of both fashion history and the Pucci brand’s own legacy. Prominent members of the industry shared anecdotes and insights into the history of mannequins, adding a personal touch to the evening.
Joe Baer and Meg Lefeld of ZenGenius.
David Moin of Women’s Wear Daily and Ralph Pucci.
Reginald Rogers of Fashion Institute of Technology and James Damian.
