Since its earliest models dating all the way back to 1880’s the history of the vibrator is one steeped in controversial issues and uncomfortable conversations. Where women were shunned for wanting to embrace their female sexuality and freely talking about sex is frowned upon. The American public is beginning to usher in a new age of sexual liberation even greater than that of the sixties. Once upon a time, vibrators and other sex toys were only sold and possibly even talked about in dimly lit sex stores that employed wide eyed, heavy-breathing employees where “viewing booths” plagued back rooms and anyone who dare enter be considered a perv. Sex toys and vibrators used to be so bottom-shelf-brown-paper-bag. They have now made it way out of the seedy, dimly lit corners and into the light, out in the open and even in the aisles of Duane Reade.That’s right. The New York City drug store giant is now selling vibrators, manufactured by Trojan and Lifestyles. The affordability of these mainstreams “personal massagers” is both surprising and radical. With Both brands retailing the devices at under forty dollars (Trojan’s Tri-foria; $39.99 and Lifestyles A: muse; $19.99), reaching an intense orgasm is affordable, even in a recession!
Even covered in a current New York Times article, It has come to common knowledge that joys of sex toys have made it to the baby-carriage-pushing women of Park Slope. The beloved, clean and friendly, women founded, Seattle original Babeland, opened a location in the Brooklyn neighborhood in 2008. This is the sexual openness our feminist foremothers of the equal rights movement were hoping for. The store originally opened it’s doors in NYC in 1998 in the Lower East Side with non-judgmental and comforting mission statement “”…to promote and celebrate sexual vitality by providing an honest, open and fun environment; encouraging personal empowerment, community education, and support for a more passionate world are key.” Right on ladies! Check out their site or visit one of their three stores for friendly advice on which products will meet your needs. The women and Babeland seems as though they are always happy to help.
Sex toys have even made their way into the age of technology with products like OhMiBod (a vibrator you can sync with your Ipod of other smart device that shakes to the rhythm of your favorite tunes). Early editions of sex toys have even wriggled their way into recent pop culture. Season One of Mad Men even features the “Electrosizer”, a 1960’s contraption that is basically a wired girdle designed for pleasure. All in all, we have come a long way in the sexual liberation front. It is refreshing to see all of these products so readily available to everyone especially, with such openness. (I guess these are orgasms we are talking here) They come in all shapes, styles, colors and preferences! Welcome the age of sexual acceptance girls, and get your vibe on!
