In the 1970s, Gallery began as a monthly publication that featured casual photographs of nude women posing naturally at home, often with minimal makeup and hairstyling. This reflected the general cultural attitude towards female nudity, which was becoming increasingly accepted and celebrated during this time. In contrast to the more polished and stylized photos of the previous decades, these images provided a raw and natural look at the female form, showcasing both its beauty and imperfections. This was particularly significant for women who were beginning to assert themselves and claim their own power in society, including those involved in the feminist movement. Gallery also introduced new models like Carol Alt and Christie Brinkley, who became famous for their natural looks and embodied the era's relaxed style. The magazine continued this trend throughout the decade, featuring unretouched bodies and avoiding heavy editing techniques. These images represented a new kind of eroticism, one that emphasized authenticity and individuality rather than artificial perfection.
Gallery shifted away from this approach and began using heavier retouching and airbrushing, giving models more uniform appearances. This was partly due to advancements in technology, which made it easier to manipulate images, but also because of changing social norms surrounding sexuality. As the culture became more conservative in the 80s and 90s, the magazine adjusted its visual style accordingly. By the end of the 20th century, models had become more styled and carefully composed, with makeup and hair designed to create an idealized image. The magazine's focus on polish and refinement mirrored broader cultural attitudes towards sex, as well as growing concerns about AIDS and other health issues related to intimacy. This trend toward polish and professionalism carried over into the early 21st century, when Magazine launched its online presence and became known for highly stylized photography and glossy covers. Today, the magazine continues to evolve, reflecting shifting ideas about beauty, fashion, and sexual expression.