Known as The Mannequin, this oddly designed cushion is meant to reduce urban loneliness and provide a greater sense of comfort to its owners. Resembling an upper body with extra-long arms, this pillow is built to be wrapped around a user for optimal comfort. This swaddling of the user aims to reduce feelings of stress and isolation often felt by young people living in dense urban areas.
Tsun Lai, founder of Aseptic Studio and the maker of The Mannequin, was inspired to create the pillow after thinking back on his time at London College of Fashion. During this time, Lai would sometimes cuddle his mannequin as a means of reducing stress and feeling better.
The Mannequin pillow is constructed from a cotton shell and is stuffed with clumps of polyester balls. The use of these balls helps the pillow keep its shape better when compared to regular stuffing.
Stress-Reducing Pillows
The Mannequin Pillow is Meant to Resemble a Human to Reduce Stress
Trend Themes
1. Urban Loneliness Reduction - Creating products that address urban loneliness by providing comfort and reducing stress, such as The Mannequin pillow.
2. Swaddling Comfort - Designing pillows and cushions that mimic the sensation of being swaddled to promote relaxation and well-being.
3. Non-traditional Pillow Design - Developing pillows with unconventional shapes and designs, like The Mannequin, to provide unique sensory experiences and targeted comfort.
Industry Implications
1. Home Furnishings - Opportunity for home furnishing companies to create stress-reducing pillows that cater to the growing demand for comfort and well-being products.
2. Health and Wellness - Incorporating stress-reducing pillows into stress management programs and therapies to enhance relaxation and reduce anxiety.
3. Urban Living Solutions - Creating products specifically designed for urban dwellers that alleviate feelings of loneliness and stress, such as The Mannequin pillow.