In the early 1980s, an English magazine called Mayfair set out to capture the attention of women who enjoyed reading about fashion, beauty, and celebrity gossip while also exploring their sexual fantasies. The editorial team at Mayfair had a clear goal in mind - to create a publication that would appeal to both men and women who wanted to explore their sexual desires without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. To achieve this, they developed a unique voice that combined cheeky British humor with a polished, respectful tone toward its models and readers. This distinctive style helped it avoid the crudeness often associated with adult magazines, giving it a unique personality that was welcoming and engaging for all types of readers.
The editorial voice of Mayfair created a sense of intimacy with its audience, which felt like they were engaging with a publication that understood their tastes and sensibilities rather than simply selling explicit content. The editors wrote articles in a way that made readers feel comfortable and confident as they shared their personal stories and explored their fantasies. The publication's approach was refreshingly honest and direct, but never crude or judgmental. It encouraged readers to embrace their own sexuality and discover new ways to express themselves.
One of the most important aspects of Mayfair's editorial voice was its ability to balance humor with seriousness. Readers were able to enjoy lighthearted jokes and puns while still learning valuable information about sex and relationships. The writers used witty wordplay and clever metaphors to make even the most taboo topics seem accessible and funny. They also avoided vulgar language, focusing on the emotions and experiences behind sexual desire instead of just the physical act itself.
Overall, Mayfair's editorial voice was a game-changer for adult publications. Its success showed that there was a market for intelligent, thoughtful writing that could appeal to both men and women without sacrificing quality or taste. Today, many publications have adopted similar styles, recognizing the power of humor and respect in building trust and engagement with their audiences. While some may argue that this approach is too vanilla or boring, it remains an effective strategy for creating a sense of community and connection between publisher and reader.