STREET MANNEQUIN.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 298, 16 December 1931, Page 8

STREET MANNEQUIN.

Bright Paris Idea Spreads to Christchurch. Paris, the city of bright ideas, recently gave the world a new lead in advertising methods, mannequins appearing on the streets to attract attention to the wares for sale in some of the larger shops. One of these mannequins has come to Christchurch. He is M. De Patou, and he may be seen in High Street on any afternoon. Shoppers will note his unconventional dress. It is the exclusive gard of the members of his trade, and is designed to attract attention and is not intended as an idea in dress reform for men. M. De Patou wears an evening suit and a long black mannequin cloak, a top hat, and spats. He carries a silver mounted stick. Under his top hat the mannequin wears a white cap on which are printed the words “follow me.” As he walks the mannequin contrives by a jerky action to cause his hat to lift slowly from his head, exposing the j white cap and its message to shoppers.

M. De Patou came from Paris to New Zealand only six weeks ago. He is combining business with pleasure, he said this morning. His idea is to see the world and gain the necessary finance by following his trade in the various towns that he visits.

“ I’ve got to look chic,” said M. De Patou, “ that’s the secret of my dres£ and my business.”