International Fetish Day is an incredible opportunity to celebrate one of the most vibrant and diverse aspects of human sexuality that often gets a bad rep —fetishes and kinks. It’s a day to explore, appreciate, and embrace the myriad of desires that exist within human sexuality, all while highlighting the freedom to express and experience them without shame.
What is a fetish?
Sexual attraction to a specific object, body part, or activity that is not typically considered inherently sexual. Fetishes often involve an intense focus on the fetishised item or scenario, which can be necessary for sexual arousal or gratification.
Fetishism, often misunderstood or shrouded in secrecy and shame, is a powerful form of sexual expression that is rooted in desires, fantasies, and curiosity. It can sometimes bring extra erotic energy to a person’s sexual experience, but most importantly, it allows us to explore our sexual expression in ways that feel authentic and fulfilling. From a soft touch to a dominant roleplay, from materials like leather to more specific kinks, fetishes are as unique as the people who embrace them. Here at Sensuali, we believe that uniqueness is something to be celebrated.
Just as our bodies and minds are diverse, so too are our sexual expressions and our desires to try new things outside of what is considered the norm
This day reminds us that sexuality is not one-size-fits-all, nor is it ever what it appears to be in the films. Just as our bodies and minds are diverse, so too are our sexual expressions and our desires to try new things outside of what is considered the norm. For many, fetishes provide freedom to be themselves, from societal judgment, and express desires that may otherwise remain hidden. It’s time we start to honour how we choose to love and experience pleasure, even if it looks different from our own or what we believe to be the ‘right way’ to experience pleasure.
Fetish exploration doesn’t need to be confined to niche spaces or labelled as taboo. It’s important to recognise that fetishes are a valid and healthy part of the sexual spectrum as long as they’re explored consensually and with care. It’s about knowing yourself and, when ready, sharing that understanding with a partner or even a professional sex worker, sex therapist or coach.
If you’re new to the world of fetishes or exploring your desires, remember that the journey is personal.
If you’re new to the world of fetishes or exploring your desires, remember that the journey is personal. Start slow, communicate openly with your partner(s), and create a safe space where exploration is celebrated. There’s no rush—fetishism is about pleasure, and pleasure, at its core, is all about joy, connection, and liberation. Let’s embrace it in all its forms.
Here are a few steps to get you going in your journey:
CONSENT
Ensure that you engage in any fetish consensually by discussing your understanding of it, your relationship dynamics, the roles each person plays, and how you practice it safely (including safe words and aftercare)
WELLNESS
Engaging in and caring for your well-being, personal growth, and an increased sense of competency is important, especially in the submissive or D/s or M/s relationship. Reflect on whether or not you feel respected and meet your goals and values.
SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE
You must have the appropriate knowledge and skills about the practical application of BDSM practises. This might include attending workshops, hiring a professional to teach you the basics or investing in the right tools to engage safely.
RELATIONSHIPS & COMMUNITY
Understanding the importance of building and supporting sound and appropriate relationship structures, rituals, and rules is vital. Plenty of platforms allow you to connect with others or join specific communities that can support you and help you practise safely.
A Moment of Appreciation
As we mark this special day, let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come in fostering an inclusive, diverse world of sexuality and having access to platforms like Sensuali. Fetishism is about choice, discovery, and the freedom to be ourselves unapologetically.
Happy International Fetish Day! Let’s keep pushing boundaries, challenging perceptions, and embracing all the facets of our desires.
April Maria
April Maria is a qualified sex educator, sex and relationships coach and training psychosexual and relationships therapist. For the last four years, April has been working in the field of sex education, sex tech and pleasure, endometriosis awareness and helping others when it comes to sexual wellness, intimacy, dating and relationships.
