‘Prestige Porn’ Trend Centers Older Women in Luxury Erotica

A burgeoning genre dubbed ‘prestige porn’ is redefining erotic content by centering older women and exploring themes of sexual dominance and desire in a luxurious, highbrow context. This trend is manifesting across various media, including films, books, and high-end retail.

This movement, which elevates explicit content to an artful, sophisticated level, stars established actresses and features narratives appealing to a demographic that seeks empowerment and nuanced exploration of sexuality. Rachel, a 41-year-old doctor, described the genre as her “therapy,” consuming XXX-rated audiobooks and watching films like “Babygirl” and series such as “Industry” while engaging in everyday activities.

“My group chat is full of moms who trade [sex content] recommendations,” Rachel told The Post. “It feels like you’re watching any other good movie… just with bondage.”

A Shift in Media and Marketing

The era of prestige porn allows acclaimed actresses like Nicole Kidman, 59, and Olivia Colman, 52, to engage in explicit scenes for contemporary studios like A24. Jessica Knoll, known for her crime thrillers, has transitioned to writing about sexuality in her bestselling book “Helpless.”

This trend extends to luxury retail, with stores like Bloomingdale’s offering products such as an $108 “arouse stimulating serum” alongside designer handbags. Retailers like Revolve feature items like anal beads and high-fashion clothing. The erotica app Quinn, priced at $60, offers spicy bedtime stories narrated by actors such as Emmy nominee Andrew Scott.

The film “Wicker,” starring Olivia Colman, which debuted recently, is described as an “absurdist romantic comedy” that has generated significant buzz for its explicit content. Advance screenings reportedly sold out, with reports indicating a notable presence of older women in attendance.

The Psychology Behind the Trend

Sex therapists suggest that the rise of prestige porn reflects a societal shift and a growing desire for authentic connection in an increasingly digital world. Brianna Makówka, MSEd, LMHC, CST, a licensed sex therapist, explained that the constant immersion in screens leads individuals to reconnect with their physical selves.

“People are totally disconnected from their bodies right now,” Makówka said. “We’re living in screens so often that our bodies are reminding us how important they are to our full being.”

Prestige porn, she argues, frames sex as a luxury, giving individuals, particularly women, permission to explore it more openly. This approach allows for the exploration of sexual desire and identity without stigma, encouraging individuals to question and articulate their desires.

“This new wave of luxury sex products and more artful erotic content is letting more people engage with sex, and pushing us to ask, ‘What is the type of sex worth having?’” Makówka stated.

Luxury and Sexual Wellness

The intersection of luxury and sexual wellness is evident in the product offerings from brands like Fleur du Mal and Maude. Jennifer Zuccarini, founder of Fleur du Mal, noted that customers often transition from purchasing designer clothing to exploring luxury sex toys and lingerie, seeking a similar high-end experience in their intimate lives.

Éva Goicochea, founder of Maude, emphasizes that elevated design in sexual wellness products encourages a shame-free approach to exploring sexuality. Maude, which includes products like lube and vibrators, is now available at major beauty retailers like Sephora and Ulta Beauty.

Even established wellness brands like Goop, founded by Gwyneth Paltrow, offer products such as their $55 “Sex Oil,” which has been a long-standing bestseller. Goop’s editorial director, Kylie Gilbert, stated that normalizing conversations about sexual pleasure has been a core part of Goop's mission.

The appeal of prestige porn may lie in its framing, as creators often avoid the label. Films like “Wicker” are described as romances, while HBO’s “Industry” is called a “gripping and provocative” drama, despite their explicit content. This nuanced marketing allows for broader acceptance and consumption of erotic themes.

Makówka believes this trend is psychologically beneficial, enabling individuals to explore their desires and fostering greater personal happiness and connection. "Good sex does," she concluded, distinguishing it from the isolating effects of technology.