There are many styles and variations of stands but they can generally be grouped into 4 main categories.

Regular Stands  These are the most commonly used stand and they have a narrower top than a wide body stand.

Wide Body Stands   Wide body stands are like regular stands but for dolls and bears with larger waists.  These have a wider top to accomodate the larger doll.  They can have a larger base than the regular stand but not always.

Saddle Stands  The saddle stands fit between the legs with tabs that go up the front and back of the doll usually under the clothing for an invisible stand (the base is visible). 

Specialty stands Baby bear seats and display cases which not a true stand but can support and protect your doll.  Stands can be used inside of display cases as well.  (Check the base diameter to be sure the stand will fit inside the case.)

Choosing the right stand

1. Choose the style - regular, wide body, saddle or specialty.  Generally, Baby dolls and bears take the wide body stands and Fashion dolls generally take regular stands. Very small waisted dolls should use a saddle stand.

2. Choose the size - Stands are sized by the height of the doll. A stand may be for a 11" to 20" doll or a 8" to 14" doll. 

Now here is an important distinction.  Both of the stands will hold a 13" doll but the stand sized for the 11" to 20" doll will hold it much more securely.  This is true for 2 reasons. 1. Usually the base will be larger in diameter and heavier in weight. 2. the post will be extended more in the smaller stand and give less support to the doll or bear.

Our recommendation is to always buy the stand that will hold your doll the most securely unless you need a smaller stand for some reason.