Jonathan Legg and The Road Less Travelled explores Fetish London

James became a 'fixer' for Jonathan Legg and his crew, as the Road Less Traveled arrived in London. A few days exploring the world of fetish in London took Jonathan Legg to Liberation (from Libidex), Shelton Street, near Covent Garden, where he discovered the dark and hidden side of London, with latex wear and fetish accessories.

Not enough to satisfy his curiosity about the fetish world, Jonathan experiences bondage, the Shibari way, with Bruce Esinem, the Shibari master, aka the Art of Japanese rope bondage. Bruce is more than a master at Shibari. He is a teacher, a creator, and his knowledge and techniques are unique.

But the night cannot finish for Jonathan until he meets Mistress Morrigan Hel at Murder Mile Studios, a dark dungeon where you will live through pleasure, pain, and anything that your imagination can endure.

If you want to follow the trail, watch this video and tell us what you think.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHupSV4OREM&feature=youtu.be 

London Below: A new alternative market for all those seeking new adventures

London was host to a new alternative market on Sunday 30th August. Sited in Dalston, North East London, 'London Below' opened its doors for the first time, offering a multitude of stalls from club wear, lingerie to jewellery.

Although Epic Dalston is renowned for hosting record and art fairs, this venue is also home to wedding receptions. Formerly a cinema, it is situated on the ground floor, under Efes, a snooker club on the corner of Stoke Newington Road and Trumans Road. Easy to miss, but look out for the front door between a tattoo shop and a Turkish restaurant.

Difficult to label, this alternative market offers a wide range of products and styles, for all taste and tendencies. Stalls included: club wear, PVC wear, lingerie, jewellery, embroidery, graphic artists, fascinators, vintage and retro, bondage and discipline, tarot reading and taxidermy.

Sarah, The Curious Menagerie, runs regular tailored taxidermy courses nearby, at Seven Sisters. Here she is preparing a Jackdaw. (www.curiousmenagerie.co.uk)

Voodoo Oddities specialise in entomology, taxidermy (wet and dry specimens), medical antiques and secret society paraphernalia. Today, they had a fabulous array of bats and spiders!
(www.vodoooddities.com)

Henry, Curiosities From the 5th Corner, had an impressive range of artworks, bones and artefacts; many of them being human remains..!
(www.curiositiesfromthe5thcorner.com)

London would benefit from hosting more events of this genre, presenting excellent opportunities to meet creative, independent artists and designers. The originality of this market makes it unique and worthwhile a visit.

The organisers, Trica and Malc, have our support and encouragement to continue providing an alternative to Sunday shopping, and we look forward to featuring them in the next Fetish Map London. For those curious out there, London Below is scheduled to open its doors on the last Sunday of every month. Why not visit them then?


For more information, you can find London Below at Epic Dalston, 13 - 15 Stoke Newington Road, London N16 8BH. On the A10, north of the Balls Pond Road crossroad. By train: Dalston Kingsland overground.
www.londonbelow.co.uk
www.epicdalston.com



The Fetish Map Team - James and Eva

One Shoe Fetish: A new kink?

The love story between a woman and shoes begins in childhood; at least it did for me. I found some of my mum's high heel shoes one day, in the cellar of our house in Paris. I was about 5 years old, and being too little I couldn't wear both shoes properly at the same time, so I walked around with one shoe on and one shoe off.

Strangely enough this idiosyncrasy, wearing one shoe on and one off, seems to have followed me into my adult life.

A busy life juggling writing projects, research, interviews and preparing seminars can soon turn into turmoil and feel hectic. Being organised is a must, but some things just have a tendency to stay a bit chaotic. Often, I find myself wearing one shoe on and one off, not really for the pleasure of it, but because I lose my shoes around the house. So, while I look around for one, I wear the other. The biggest challenge is walking down the stairs with only one shoe on, while the bare foot marches down on tiptoe, trying to keep the balance.

I never gave this behaviour a second thought, until recently someone approached me to talk about their unusual kink: One shoe fetish.

Men love women in high heels, it's sexy, elegant and graceful. Shoe fetish is very popular, a fetish that extends to boots and other footwear; and so is foot fetish. All over the world, men worship women's feet, whether they are part of the fetish world or not.

But could we combine foot and shoe fetish? Why not?

Nigel is the first man I have encountered who has done just that.

E: How did you come across this fetish?

N: I was born with it. It is a natural fetish, the one that gets me sexually aroused.

What is the excitement about looking at a woman wearing only one shoe?

N: It turns me on. It looks very attractive and sensual. When a woman wears one shoe, at some point she starts caressing her foot, mainly to shift the weight and give some relief to the bare foot, or to keep it warm. This is absolutely exciting and very feminine, even more so because most of the time, she does it inadvertently.

E: Do you enjoy women walking with one shoe and seeing the imbalance of the walk, or you see the beauty in seeing one bare foot and one shoe?

N: I see the beauty in seeing one bare foot and one shoe. Also, the great thing about a woman walking with one heel only is that she puts her bare foot on tiptoe, which is very sexy. When a woman walks bare feet, she puts her feet flat on the ground. This is not as exciting as seeing her tiptoeing. On the other hand, to tiptoe with both bare feet is only possible for a very limited time because it's unnatural. So, the best option is one heel on and tiptoe with the bare foot.

E: Is it also about being 'half way there', not quite the whole 'naked' look, but on the way there?

N: In a way, yes. A slight hint of nudity. Besides, a shoe is just about the only thing a woman can remove in public and not transgress the boundary of decency.


For many men, one shoe fetish means the best of 'both worlds': The bare foot, sexy and sensual in its natural state, and the foot dressed in a high heel, showing the elegance of a woman.

How often do you fantasise about playing out your fetish in public? Some kinky games or fantasies are far too daring outside the fetish milieu. One shoe fetish, however, could be more discreet, yet still thrilling and exciting.

Feet are the extension of hands, some say. Women enjoy teasing a man, caressing him all over with her bare feet. Even more sensual and arousing when she caresses her lover's sexual parts with her bare foot. The bare skin, the gentle slow movement, while keeping eye contact, can be titillating and orgasmic. A one shoe fantasy played in public is erotic. One shoe on, showing normality, while the bare foot is off playing.

The male's fantasy of a woman being both a madonna and a nymphomaniac at the same time, can be a turn on and exciting: Two conflicting women into one. She can conduct herself with grace, glamour and gentleness, in a beautiful dress and high heels, turning into a seductive sexual temptress when she decides to. Many men like this image, it's arousing, sexy and attractive.

In this world of opposites, yin and yang, good and bad, night and day, seeing both parts of the contrast at once can be gratifying. You have all you want, as one.

The one shoe fetish is part of this contrasting world, and although it might not be a well known kink, it makes sense to take pleasure in admiring a woman who is offering the best of both experiences. A beautiful foot in a sexy shoe, and the contrast of the bare foot, sensual, untamed, wild just free to be played with, or ready to play.

Foot fetish and shoe fetish, both coming under one. Will it catch on?

Why don't you try and let us know how it feels for you?

Or maybe you are already a member of this fetish group? Why not share your experience with us and offer some more insight?

Eva Lamour

Photography by James Drury

  

What is Fetishism? What is a Fetish?

Opinions abound as to the definition of fetish in this modern era. A common notion is that a fetish is simply associated to sexual practices, when a specific object is used or desired for sexual gratification.

But the word fetish originates from the Portuguese fetiçio for charm, sorcery, spell, derived from the Latin facticius 'artificial, man made', which comes from facere 'to make, to do'. In the 15th century, as Portuguese colonialists arrived in the west coast of Africa, they encountered natives with objects such as charms and talismans, objects they believed to possess magical powers, power of witchcraft and sorcery. These objects became known as fetishes, holding unchristian powers and therefore, regarded as unholy by the christian 'invaders'.

Soon after, a fetish was known as an object with an addictive or irrational high fascination for it. Many modern definitions talk of fetish for hats, handbags or shoe fetish, not necessarily linked to any sexual practice, but simply a high and unusual obsession for specific objects.

It is, however, at the end of the 19th century that French psychologist, Alfred Binet, coined the term 'sexual or erotic fetishism' to describe people who had a sexual interest or attachment to an object, such as an item of clothing. Krafft-Ebing, Austro-German psychiatrist, who popularised the terms sadism and masochism, late 19th century, also used the word fetish to describe an abnormal association to an object for sexual satisfaction.

What is a fetish, in modern day definition?

Today, a fetish is more widely known as something we associate with sexual gratification, a specific object, a practice, a ritual or other forms of desire that enhance our sexual experience.

The word fetish still carries a negative connotation in our modern day society, defining it as a 'form of sexual desire in which gratification is linked, to an abnormal degree, to a particular object, item of clothing, part of the body'. (1)  By describing it as 'abnormal', a fetish remains an obscure practice and something that should be kept secret from those who do not belong to that world.

As exhibitors at Erotica, we have, on numerous occasions, witnessed many visitors turning away from the fetish village refusing to have a chat, claiming that 'that stuff is not for me, thanks'. But understanding what the fetish world is about could take away the fallacy, and misconception, of this lifestyle choice.

Being 'kinky' might be considered in society as a healthy way of exploring one's sexual life, by introducing some spice into it, but having a fetish remains an obscure practice, not as widely accepted and in some cases, a sign of immorality or psychological problems related to one's sexuality. This view of fetishists keeps them in the margin of society; and although some fetishes are regarded as milder than others, in their degree of weirdness, singularity or unusualness , we certainly learn not to divulge our participation or desire for fetishes within some circles.

Some claim that the close link between fetish and BDSM renders it all sadistic, and something that is practised by those who grow up with emotional and mental problems, as regards to their sexuality.

Fetish protocol requires, however, that a strictly code of conduct is respected at all times, by practising a 'sane, safe and consensual' rule, which demonstrates a high level of trust and responsibility among all those involved. So, the questions are: Do all those practising 'normal sex' adhere to such principle and standard? Is having a fetish so immoral, when true fetishists remain respectful of others' preferences, choices and inclinations?

If something turns you on, why not be free to practise it without being considered as a risk to society, on a mission to pervert vulnerable, unwilling people. Having and living a fetish is a personal affair, a personal choice that cannot be always explained and certainly not to be justified.


In our quest to provide adequate and extensive information in Fetish Map London, on the wide range of fetishes, we have explored clubs, munches and forums, among others. Extending from the well known fetishes such as body parts and body features to the more bizarre, the directory is vast.

Fetishes encompass, but are not limited to:

    •    Body parts, body features: feet, hair, hands, body size, obesity, size of breasts, size of penis, body fluid, body smell - smell of material such as leather
    •    Things people wear: shoes, uniforms, stockings, hats, piercings
    •    The feel of material: leather, latex, satin, silk
    •    Dressing up in other things: furry animal costumes, plushies
    •    Playing animals: pony play, pet play
    •    Balloon fetish, body inflation
    •    Feeders: feeding partners to reach a body size that is pleasing. The whole ritual of choosing food, preparing food, and feeding is important.
    •    Sploshing - Messy fun: food smudged all over the body.
    •    Latex, leather masks
    •    Tattoos
    •    Rubber dolls
    •    Fangs
    •    Infantilism
    •    Medical play
    •    Bondage
    •    Strap-ons
    •    Cross-dressing

If your fetish is not on the list, leave your comment, or let us know which fetish you would like more information on. In the few coming weeks, I shall be writing articles on particular fetishes, so come back to read them. For more information on the fetish lifestyle, and where to find all you need: www.fetishmap.co.uk for your map.

Eva Lamour

(1) Oxford Dictionary

Photography by James Drury

PONY PLAY IN BRUSSELS

MEDICAL PLAY - BLOOD FETISH

FOOT FETISH

WHIP, STOCKINGS AND SHOES FETISH

BONDAGE - ZENTAI at
Club Rub Annual Rubber Awards

LATEX - INFLATED LATEX at
Club Rub Annual Rubber Awards

UNIFORM LATEX FETISH
at Club Rub Annual Rubber Awards

LATEX FETISH - from BREATHLESS
at Club Rub Annual Rubber Awards

Reuben Kaye talks fetish with Fetish Map London

The international cabaret performer, Reuben Kaye, talks about the many sides of Fetish Map London. From specialised shops to clubs and services, the leading map of all things fetish and kinky provides all the information you need.

Listen to Reuben talk about it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJDDXj0oHJc

Eva Lamour

Fetish Words Definitions - 17 essential Fetish - BDSM related words for newcomers

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

OSLO FETISH WEEKEND - May 2015

Who, in their right mind, is going to turn down an invitation to review the Oslo Fetish Weekend? My passion for travelling and cultural, and counter-cultural, exploration intertwined with a fetish party, was the perfect excuse for a weekend in Norway. Besides, I wanted to witness, first-hand, this land of 'happiness and serenity' and its people, adding the contrast of BDSM and fetish ambiance.

Oslo Fetish Weekend celebrated their first event this year, after months of careful preparation by producer Regina, who planned a whole array of entertainment for all taste and inclinations. Friday 8th May inaugurated the festivities with a free gathering, meeting and greeting all participants wishing to have a sneak preview. '50 Shades of Grey, done the right way', lead by Midori, launched the lineup of workshops available during the weekend. But the surprise of the weekend, for me, was the fetish fashion procession around the city. I wonder how many fetish fashion shows have used the streets of London as their catwalk?

The panoply of seminars, and classes, offered something for each tendency: Domestic discipline, kink advice, kinky speed dating practice, and not forgetting rope bondage, a favourite at all fetish festivals across the world.

Red Room Ball at Château Neuf

As for us, we were curious about the Red Room Ball, on Saturday night. Parties are perfect to meet the fetish community, when everybody is relaxed and buzzing, eager to socialise. The atmosphere tells the best story, worth a thousand words.

Château Neuf hosted this first Fetish party. A small venue offering a bar area, a lounge and a stage room, big enough to accommodate all visitors eager to watch the performances of the night. However, the size of this location didn't feel claustrophobic because, as we experienced early on in the city, the small population of Oslo reflected the size of the crowd this evening.

A small gathering compared to the London or Berlin Fetish Festival, but it is usual for first events to welcome fewer international participants. We have no doubt that in future years, this once-upon-a-time-small-event will become a must-experience fetish scene in Europe.

Fewer people doesn't imply less fun, and these kinksters were very eager to have the best time ever. The friendliness we encountered was above expectation. The crowd was by far the warmest I have encountered in fetish parties, big or small. After a few minutes absorbing the ambiance, we were approached by a charming couple who spoke about the fetish scene in Norway, and how delighted everyone was to finally welcome this event in their city.

I have attended endless fetish parties in London, where people tend to gather and socialise with their own group. Newcomers stand or stroll around the place on their own, and if they're extroverted they will try to start a conversation with other groups. But not many party-goers ever seem interested to communicate with people they don't know, unless they have a reason.  Norwegians are totally different. Their culture is about inclusion. Of course, generalising any cultural trait is incorrect, but this is what I experienced the whole weekend, either first-hand or while observing interactions in bars, restaurants, gatherings and sometimes in public transport.

In London, the best way to mingle in fetish parties is by infiltrating the smoking area, whether you smoke or not. Introduce yourself, join in some chats, and people are usually happy to talk to you. But in Oslo, if you are a newcomer, you are more likely to be approached by the regulars who want everybody to feel included. Impressive!

A mixture of sensuality, fetishism and voyeurism

The first performance of the night flew from Paris. L'Erosticratie, an 'artistic and political project' defying the meaning of sexual love in society, performs the art of eroticism on stage in all its forms and values. In this scene, the protagonist directed the play. Wearing a long white dress, and a ghostly face, she was living her erotic dream. Her remote control, or zapper, gave her full control of the other two characters on stage, leaving them at her mercy. A submissive nun, on a leash, who seemed to be in a trance, was led by her Master. Erotic play, the French way, was a mixture of sensuality, fetishism and voyeurism, as the protagonist gets turned on by the erotic play. An original and captivating tableau that won the whole crowd, and gave an outstanding ovation, asking for more…!

Not forgetting the compère tonight, Floyd Erik Vawter, the flamboyant goth artist, owned the stage with his theatrical parade and interactions. He was grand, witty with plenty of authority, as he reminded the crowd about the rules for the night, all in English.

I speak many languages, and English is my third language, but I am still amazed, when I travel to some of these festivals, to witness how English becomes the main, if not the only, language on stage. The whole festival used English as if it were their first language. So, for those brits worried about feeling isolated, do not fear, it will be all right on the night!

Bringing variety to the evening, Kiki Cherie, international burlesque performer from Sweden, delighted the spectators with her magnificent  bawdy routine. Teasing and charming the crowd, she entertained with grace and sensuality, earning her place in this festival celebrating all things erotic, kinky and perverted.

A fashion statement

As in all fetish parties, making a fashion statement is, for most, a major component of the night. Latex, leather or anything that tells the world 'I am into BDSM' or 'This is me living my fetish' is the norm at all festivals and parties. I was delighted to spot Regina, the organiser and hostess of this event, wearing a similar outfit to mine: Both modelling a creation by Libidex, one of the most successful latex fashion designers in London.

However, I was rather taken aback by the weirdest costume of the night: The biggest latex 'angry baby' full head mask I have ever come across. Rather freaky but not unexpected from the country that showcases the sculptures of Gustav Vigeland and his angry baby, probably the most photographed baby sculpture in the world. Why? Not sure, but if in Oslo, a must-see for all visitors.

If interested in this latex full head mask, the owner shared with us that it came from the USA, at a rather high cost, and had taken about three weeks. But, if you are looking for some original ideas, why not give it a go?

Fetish tourism

So, would we go back? Certainly! And I would encourage all fetishists and kinksters of the world to support Oslo Fetish Weekend next year.

We promote fetish tourism in all its forms, because cultural differences are best experienced through a community that defies all frontiers, and goes beyond language and national habits. Let's embrace the counterculture we belong to, and enjoy the fetish milieu, wherever that may be.

For more information on the event, visit: www.oslofetishweekend.com

Make sure you keep up to date with all the events we promote or purchase the map for more information, by visiting our website, or be part of our Facebook community: www.fetishmap.co.uk


Eva Lamour

Part of the Oslo Fetish Weekend Crew