Cheri's role in the shift towards softcore erotica was to move adult magazines away from exclusively explicit content and towards mood, artistry, and sensuality, paving the way for later publications and internet pornography websites.
In an era when hardcore pornography dominated the adult magazine industry, Cheri magazine stood out as one of the first softcore magazines that featured high quality photography, sophisticated layout design, and provocative but ultimately demure poses. Cheri helped popularize a new style of eroticism that focused less on graphic nudity and more on suggestive imagery and emotional connection between performers, contributing to a broader cultural shift in attitudes towards sexuality and gender roles.
The rise of Cheri magazine coincided with a growing awareness among women that they could have control over their own sexuality and take charge of their bodies in ways previously unavailable to them. Softcore erotica offered a safe space for exploration without the risk or pressure of engaging in sex itself, while still providing an opportunity for fantasy fulfillment through visual stimulation. The magazine's focus on mood and atmosphere allowed readers to imagine themselves as part of the story being told rather than simply observers of it, encouraging a deeper sense of intimacy and connection.
This shift towards softer, more nuanced depictions of sexuality also had implications for mainstream culture. As society became more open about discussing issues like consent and boundaries in relationships, softcore erotica provided a framework for exploring these ideas in a non-threatening context. In addition, the popularity of Cheri led to the creation of similar publications catering to different audiences, such as Playboy for men and Barely Legal for teenagers. This proliferation of softcore material contributed to a greater understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual preferences and identities, leading to the development of LGBTQ+ pornography and other forms of representation that were previously unheard of.
Cheri magazine's influence can be seen even today in modern internet pornography websites that feature well-shot videos with attractive performers and explicit but not graphic content. These sites often incorporate elements from Cheri's approach to suggestiveness and emotional resonance into their offerings, creating a unique brand of online eroticism that appeals to a wide range of viewers.
In conclusion, Cheri magazine played an important role in shifting attitudes towards sexuality by introducing a new style of erotica that emphasized artistry, sensuality, and emotion over explicitness. The impact of this change can still be felt today in everything from mainstream media to internet pornography, continuing to shape our perceptions of sex, gender roles, and intimacy.