Ever wondered about using latex in the bedroom – but not sure how to get started? Fear not. Lady Friday has your primer to all things shiny, slippery and rubbery…
Latex, the very flexible rubber, isn’t just for fetishists any more.
Lingerie makers are reporting an interest in latex underwear and corsets, and bespoke latex costumes are popping up everywhere from comic conventions to fashion shoots.
The advantages? It’s easy to clean, has an exciting texture, is immediately naughty, and can require very little effort to get into (though bigger pieces will take more time, which is part of their appeal).
It’s not quite wear-out-on-the-town acceptable yet, but if you frequent the right kind of clubs it’s sure to get you attention. It’s not a trend for everybody – but if you’d like to sample some of the sensation, here’s your guide to getting started.
Latex isn’t often available in stores at the local shopping centre – at least, not things which will maintain wear and allow for a lot of use. You’ll probably have to order online, so do a lot of research and make sure you’re getting what you want – and that it’s packaged inconspicuously, if you’re worried about judgment.
Start slow – and small. The full range of latex clothing for the bedroom is mind-boggling, but latex gloves are often the beginner’s friend. A plain latex lingerie set is often the next step, or you might feel like graduating to a corset (or, in the case of Dita Von Teese, a full-length latex gown).
To put on latex of any kind, you’ll need powder – talcum powder or cornstarch are the usual ones. The alternative is a lubricant, which most latex stores tend to sell. With both, remember less is more, but don’t hesitate to add an extra bit if you’re feeling the pinch. Take a shower, dry thoroughly and then powder or lube up- powder puffs are often an advantage.
Pull on latex gently, because it can snag or rip if something sharp like a nail catches it. Peel on and off – no hurrying – and if you have any discomfort or allergic reaction, which can happen, stop immediately and wash.
Latex wear is often custom-made, so the world is your oyster. You can have your very own latex pencil skirt, stockings, blouse – the sky’s the limit, and the amount of colours is surprising. Rescu. would advise custom-made pieces over store-bought things, because you get the quality you pay for – and degraded, easily torn latex is no fun.
Caring for latex is similar to caring for a very high-end intimate toy. Every use needs to be followed by a thorough wash in warm water with detergent – nothing too severe, or you’ll damage the material – and then a wipe-down to make sure it’s completely dry. Store it out of the sun, too, because sun damages latex after a while.
Oil-based lubricants, creams and perfumes actually erode the surface of latex, so make sure your body is clean before putting on any latex clothing. Also, curiously enough, copper and metals interact with it badly, so no coins or jewellery either.
RESCU’s favourite online stores? House Of Harlot, with an Etsy store and some killer credentials is the leader of the pack – Ms Von Teese herself wears the brand regularly and was seen shopping in their London store – but Wicked Lingerie (an Australian brand) and Dawnamatrix offer their own unique twists.
Don’t be shy – dive in!
Image: The Maggie dress at House Of Harlot.
Lady Friday xx
Taking the pillow talk out of the bedroom, every Friday…
