Vintage Media: Mail-Order Erotica and Gendered Reading From the 1950s to the 1980s
Mail-order catalogs offered a wide range of erotic novels, lingerie, and photography to readers across rural and urban areas during this time period. Women in particular engaged with these materials privately—often under the radar of moral scrutiny—forming secret reading networks, which provided them with rare forms of sexual education and empowerment. These materials often featured female protagonists exploring their sexuality and desires in ways that were not allowed in mainstream culture. The act of ordering, waiting, and reading in secret became part of the erotic experience itself. This practice was especially significant for women who lived in environments where sexually explicit material was highly restricted or forbidden. Ordering such items anonymously through mail was a way to access otherwise unavailable resources. While some women may have read these materials simply for pleasure, others used them as tools to explore their own bodies and desires without judgment or shame.
In terms of gendered reading, vintage media also played a role in shaping how women viewed themselves and their place in society. Many of these texts featured strong female characters who challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Some even depicted same-sex relationships, which at the time was still taboo and considered "immoral." By engaging with these materials, women could gain insight into their own identities and sexualities, while also learning about alternative lifestyles and experiences. Additionally, many women reported feeling a sense of community and camaraderie among those who shared their love of these materials, forming tightly knit social circles that continued well beyond the pages of the catalogs.
Overall, vintage media's role in promoting female sexual autonomy cannot be overstated. From offering access to information and education to creating spaces for personal growth and connection, these materials helped shape the landscape of modern feminism and the way we understand sexuality today.