Fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier once expressed his regret at not inventing the condom, referring to it as the most beautiful item of clothing. Now, the fashion industry is embracing this intimate garment, with condom collaborations, innovative brands, and fashionable designs aiming to disrupt the market. Designer Glenn Martens partnered with Durex for a capsule collection that went viral, while Saint Laurent and Neil Barrett offer their own condom products. The use of condoms in fashion is surging, with fashion influencers like Julia Fox and Rihanna incorporating condoms into their outfits.
In recent years, the popularity of contraceptives like the pill has overshadowed the use of condoms. However, with factors like the overturning of Roe v. Wade and a spike in sexually transmitted infections, there are signs of a condom revival. Brands like Roam and One Condoms are breaking taboos and offering innovative designs to appeal to a new generation concerned about safe sex and ethical products. Jems, a chic sex-care startup, has created a range of condoms and other accessories with trendy packaging and messaging to make condom use more comfortable and normalized.
Clothing brands are getting involved in promoting condoms as part of their provocative and statement-making image. The trend may also be influenced by the resurgence of sheer fabrics and latex-like textures. As younger generations become more open about discussing sex and the importance of safe practices, condom use has the potential for a comeback.
While some may see the condom trend as a fleeting fashion fad, others recognize its potential to make safe sex stylish and culturally significant. Jean Paul Gaultier’s idea of the condom as a beautiful object that enhances natural pleasure resonates with the movement. If this trend can help promote safe sex and reduce the stigma around condom use, it could be a truly groundbreaking moment in fashion and public health.
