Back fat, tattoos and thicker waists are among the new features mannequins are getting

NEW YORK, N.Y. – The one-size-fits-all mannequin is getting a much-needed makeover.

Wings Beachwear’s mannequins in Miami are sporting flower tattoos like some of the women who shop there. The mannequins at American Apparel’s downtown New York City store have pubic hair peeking through their lingerie. And at David’s Bridal, mannequins soon will get thicker waists, saggier breasts and back fat to mimic a more realistic shape.

Stores are using more realistic versions of the usually tall, svelte, faceless mannequins in windows and aisles. It’s part of retailers’ efforts to make them look more like the women who wear their clothes. That means not only adding fat and hair, but also experimenting with makeup, wigs and even poses.