Fascinations is a one-of-a kind romance store here in Tucson that caters to more than just sex. The store prides itself on its boutique-style set up, fun and comfortable for interested couples and women to enjoy. “It is a lot seedier than other sex shops around town,” said Richard Thompson, the receiving manager. The design of the shop is a methodical one. At the forefront of the store dangles intricate lace and vibrant corsets on both sides of the enclosed sectional walls. Delicate light pink baby dolls dresses hang on the sracks between the corsets. “The lingerie aspect is a lot less intimidating to customers than walking right in and seeing a huge vibrator.”
Moving toward the center of the store, Mandy points out the novelty area, packed with gag gifts like penis lollipops great for bachelorette parties, erotica books, position guides, Kiss and Tell board games and edible gummy panties or candy g-strings. Not anyone can work in an environment like Fascinations. “We see trannys, gay men, cross dressers, strippers. You have to be open to the differences in humanity. Oh, and you have to be able to say penis without giggling.”
But a sex shop wouldn’t be a sex shop without a little kink. Fascinations is undergoing a transition by ridding the store of toys with preservatives and keeping only higher-end, safer products. “We want to leave the idea of a sex shop behind and become a high end sensual superstore.” But for now you can find in the sexually deviant section of the store, electrical shocking cages, paddles, whips, studded dog collars, restraints, and the list of bondage supplies goes on. Check out the romance super store Fascinations at 3658 E. Speedway Blvd.