(Note: This story appears in the June 2023 issue of SE Magazine

Pleasure product phenomenon pulls Radiance, a star-studded new apparel collection, straight from the cosmos. See it in person at ANME this July!

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f the elasticity of a brand can be a sign of its durability, CalExotics has proven its permanence. In their 29 years in business, the pleasure product powerhouse has successfully driven into every aspect of the adult market, including apparel. The “world of pleasure” that is CalExotics spans every product category imaginable, providing satisfaction for all.

The new Radiance line of apparel from CalExotics is a fashion-forward collection designed for a consumer who may have a bit of a kinky side. Radiance just recently dazzled the market, in May of 2023, and CalExotics reports that the response so far has been tremendous.

“The lines between fetish and fashion have begun to blur,” announces trend-spotter Susan Colvin, the Founder and CEO of CalExotics. “Consumers are turning play-wear into fashion and making an entire night out of it. This trend piqued our interest, so we began working on products to expand on this. And in true CalExotics fashion, we added a touch of sparkle to elevate the collection’s look and feel.”

Ground control to CalEx: “Why apparel?”

The apparel category is an oft-forgotten staple in the pleasure product market, although it appeals to a wider customer base than most other adult product segments. So-called “soft goods” are generally more approachable than, let’s say, an electric butt plug or a leather flogger, to name a few of the “harder” items CalExotics offers. The softness of apparel attracts a variety of consumers, like a glittering gloved hand, leading them in. 

“In a brick-and-mortar setting, apparel items can be merchandised in the front of the store helping to engage shoppers,” suggests Colvin. “Then, retailers can encourage further exploration once the consumer is in the store.”

The welcoming effect of apparel appeals to an increasing variety of retailers, as well. As with customers, the apparel category offers a broader reach than purely pleasure products. Many traditionally “non-adult” retailers are now carrying adult apparel, and CalExotics is excited to offer this product category as an introduction to the brand, which can lead to expansion into other markets. 

Radiant design

Of all that the Radiance line has to offer, the Gloves and Shoulder Shrug have been retailers’ favorites. 

“The Gloves are form-fitting, comfortable and flattering for any occasion, while the Shoulder Shrug offers a sensual, versatile design making it the perfect accessory for any occasion,” Colvin notes.

But the body suits, which come in a large range of styles and sizes, have received the most attention overall. Consumers love already the eye-snagging sparkling accents along with the versatility every individual piece provides. Versatility is one of the collection’s most beloved features, true to the fetish-fashion intention. 

“These designs go from day to night with ease,” Colvin delights. “The Deep V Body Suit can easily pair with a skirt or beneath a blazer for a sexy statement look that is sure to turn heads. Then, once you’re ready for the real fun, the Suit turns into sexy lingerie perfect for sensual playtime.”

The Radiance collection is no-doubt diva-inspiring. To ensure that all the members of their vast customer base can experience the glamor of its bold, fierce, fashion-forward look, CalExotics prioritizes inclusivity in all of their designs.

“We used ultra-stretchy material and included various sizing throughout the Radiance collection,” promises Colvin. “Several pieces are one-size-fits-most, like the Pasties, Eye Mask, Hood, Gloves and Side-tie Panties. Our body suits come in multiple sizes to ensure the consumer feels comfortable, sexy and empowered when wearing Radiance. Each design is available in two sizes; one fits most standard sizes, and the other is a plus size that fits up to 3X. Each body suit stretches to fit and accentuates all the right places, hugging every delicious curve. No matter what body shape, size or type, you can find a Radiance body suit that flatters your figure.”

Merchandising Radiance

While comfort and versatility are noteworthy aspects of the Radiance design, its shimmering rhinestone adornments are what cannot be ignored.

“The sparkling accents are prominently featured on the packaging, grabbing the attention of shoppers from any angle,” comments Colvin. “Shoppers can easily see the products and can envision themselves wearing them. And for retailers: the packaging puts the Radiance pieces front and center.”

A mannequin which highlights a few pieces from the collection is available to retailers for marketing the new collection. The mannequin wears three popular styles: the Full Hood Cover, Full Length Gloves and Deep V Body Suit.

“Radiance makes a statement when you see the items in person, and to support retailers, we provided a mannequin to help showcase the products,” explains Colvin. “The mannequin allows the products to stand out within the store and gives consumers the opportunity to feel the soft material and see the shine of the crystals.”

Starship to what’s to come

As the high demand for Radiance comes rushing in, CalExotics announces that they will be expanding the collection for their Fall 2023 release. 

Colvin invites all who are interested to “Come by the CalExotics ANME booth for a first look at the newest additions, including standard and plus-size options.”

For more information, please visit b2b.calexotics.com.