In the past thirty years, the so-called feminine intimate toy has transformed from a suggestive, phallic-shaped object into a minimalist, stylish item that is now often considered a fashion accessory. From its appearance in popular culture, such as in the television show Sex and the City, to its presence on high-fashion runways during Fashion Week, and even its inclusion in the well-being sections of stores like Sephora and Nocibé, the sex toy has gradually become less associated with explicit sexuality and more with style and personal care.
Womanizer, a well-known brand in the industry, recently launched a miniature version of its popular intimate toy, reinforcing its position as a fashionable item. The product is marketed as a "pocket-sized format to enjoy pleasure everywhere," emphasizing its portability and discreet design. While phallic-shaped sex toys have not disappeared, they are increasingly being overshadowed by minimalist and more discreet models that come in colorful or fashion-inspired designs. In some cases, the original function of these products seems to be forgotten in favor of their aesthetic appeal.
According to Ines Khemila, a sociology doctoral student at the University of Paris-Saclay, economic actors have influenced the design and packaging of sexual objects since the end of the 20th century, particularly for women with higher socioeconomic status. The goal was initially to distinguish between a "sexuality considered aesthetic or chic" and a "sexuality considered pornographic," with the latter associated with more crude-looking toys. The "Rabbit" from Sex and the City, introduced by Vibratex in the 1980s, became a cultural icon and helped to normalize the use of sex toys. By 2006, it was even dubbed the "Rolls-Royce of sex toys" by O, the Oprah Magazine.
The normalization of sex toys has continued, especially with the rise of online shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a significant increase in their consumption. According to a study, nearly half of French women had used a sex toy by 2021, compared to just 9 percent in 2007. The shift in perception has also led to the inclusion of sex toys in high-end fashion, with brands like On Aura Tout Vu and Diesel collaborating with companies like LELO to create high-fashion versions of intimate toys. These items are now often sold alongside jewelry or as accessories, reflecting their growing acceptance in mainstream culture.
Evolution of Feminine Intimate Toys into Fashion Accessories
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