Chasing subversion in New York’s sexual underground
From a $12,00 sex party for wealthy elites to transgressive performances at the Chelsea Hotel, Camille chronicles the search for erotic self-expression in the city that never sleeps
I’m of the opinion that the more expensive the party, the less fun it is—so when I get invited to an elite members-only sex club that costs upwards of $12,500 to attend, I’m on the fence. Nevertheless, I dutifully complete the application process—photos, interview, and all—qualifying me for free entry to the “world’s most exclusive sex party” via the VIP lady’s list, a loophole available to beautiful women arriving alone. The dress code, I’m informed, is black tie plus a masquerade-style mask, and I’m not given the location until the night before, at which point I’m tearing through my closet, desperate to scrounge up an outfit. “Will this work?” I text the woman who interviewed me, modeling a slick black leather dress. “Absolutely,” she says. Buoyed by her approval, yet dreading the weather forecast, I try to negotiate: “What about with knee-high boots?” “No,” she says. “Stilettos.” 24 hours later, I’m sprinting through the downpour in six-inch heels. Outside a sprawling Manhattan townhouse, I’m greeted by two tall men in suits who review my credentials with expressionless faces, then welcome me through its imposing doors. As I duck inside, I’m hit with the sudden realization that I have absolutely no idea what I’m in for.