Sex toy, an object of pleasure

Associated with sensuality and pleasure, sex toys are increasingly coveted by women. 7% of them admit to using them. Erotic gadgets are breaking free from the gloomy and sordid stigma in which they were confined.

In the past, the “market” for sex toys was not very attractive in France, when one wished to acquire a sex toy for entertainment. Two options were available to the future buyer: either one had to go to a sex shop, which was no small feat, or one played the discretion card by ordering it from a mail-order catalog, like La Redoute or Les Trois Suisses… knowing full well that the products presented did not have a very exciting look.

Would French women be more uptight than others?

For many, sex toys are often synonymous with sexual poverty. There lies a real boundary between Southern countries, which are rather reluctant, and Northern countries, which are rather enthusiastic!
The Netherlands even launched the first vibrator vending machine. A device that resembles sandwich or hot beverage dispensers. It allows, at any time of day or night, the purchase of erotic toys or flirty lingerie. But be careful, access to this dangerous machine is exclusively reserved for adults.

Sex Toys on All Shelves

Porno chic arrived in France five years ago. Since then, sex toys have come out of their ghetto and achieved great success among women. The sexual object is being destigmatized, the price is affordable, and the advice from complicit sellers is given without vulgarity. In haute couture and in department stores, a range of cheeky accessories, without shame, are making their appearance.
Once scandalous, they have been given a makeover and renamed “sex toys” by Nathalie Rykiel. The daughter of the famous fashion designer opened a boutique in September 2004 where you can find cheeky gadgets in the basement, which, according to her, “contribute to the pursuit of erotic pleasure”. Enough to reconcile French women with these objects, “presented in a fun and friendly way”. As a result, women dare to take the plunge!

Adult versions of pajama parties, and less “dated” than Tupperware meetings, Yoba parties showcase the virtues of intimate toys to an audience of women. The concept is appealing. Playful and colorful, everyone leaves equipped with their new “toys”. Already several dozen sex toy ambassadors are operating in the main cities of France.

Lotions are Causing a Stir

Evoking the sensuality of touch and smell, the perfume chain Sephora released a new line of cosmetics last February, which you can lick, smell, and kiss. The aim of the operation: to spread the product on the body, stimulate the senses, and ultimately intoxicate one’s partner.

“Would you like to taste this with me tonight?”, is the slogan used by Jessica Simpson, creator of this line, to attract consumers.
Body mousse that can be sprinkled with candy, “kissable” body powder, mini gloss for the belly button, make up the “Desserts” range. They come in three different scents: red fruits, vanilla-caramel, and chocolate-coconut. “These edible lotions are a huge hit,” says Laurianne, a seller/advisor in a Nice Sephora store. “People buy them for serious reasons, as cheeky products, or less serious reasons, as funny gifts”.

Sex toys, objects synonymous with pleasure, today French women want to consume eroticism without moderation.

Elsa Rigaudin