This is the story of how leather became a symbol of masculinity and sexuality from post-war motorcycle groups to modern-day sex apps

This short article is a component of a string on AnotherManmag that coincides with LGBT History Month, shining a light on different elements of queer tradition. Head right here to get more.

“When I’m using my leathers, i love the way in which I have become this kind of expression, a trope, of masculinity and sex, ” describes Max, a 38-year-old gay guy from London. Max is really a “leatherman” or “leatherdaddy”, two typical descriptors for homosexual and bisexual males who fetishise leather clothing and add-ons.

Gallery

Posters through the British Leather Archive at Bishopsgate Institute

“Fetish fashion” could be the term utilized to explain the intrinsic website link between clothing and intimate fetishes, with materials like leather-based, lace, latex, and plastic holding prominence that is particular.