Ears may perk up at the words "sex show," but we are a curious bunch, if numbers are any indication. (Shutterstock.com)

Designing the big 'O'

Is it a small statue? An abstract art relic carted back from worldly travels? Or perhaps some sort of culinary utensil?

In the sex toy biz, impressive design is leading the way.

A pretty pink play thing that doesn't scream "sex toy" is bound to capture a woman's interest quicker than an overly phallic object that looks like it was picked up from a darkly lit sex shop.

"In the past, sex toys generally looked like penises," says Carlyle Jansen, founder of the friendly Toronto-based sex shop, Good for Her.

"Women are starting to design them now and they're looking for long-lasting quality and something that looks pretty."

A combination of sleek style and environmental mindfulness can be found in the toys created by a company called Lelo.

"They sell really well for us," says Adam DePass, co-owner of the online retailer lovedreamer.com.

"They're at the higher end, waterproof and rechargeable."

Lelo's selections are also non-toxic and phthalate-free.

One of the oldest toys around is the Hitachi Magic wand. Arriving in the '70s and marketed as a "back massager," this product (known for its seriously powerful vibrations) still has a satisfied fan base, however, its indiscreet size and unsightly appearance can be a turn-off.

"Women can get really freaked out by it because it's so large and it doesn't look very pretty," says Jansen.

"Esthetic is huge and packaging is huge. If it looks nice, you feel good about using it and you don't feel dirty or naughty."

Nice sex toy, is it green?

The green explosion is popping up in everything from household cleaners and cosmetic bags to our vehicles and architecture , so it was only a matter of time before our focus shifted to greener orgasms.

Some earth-minded folks are greening up their goody drawers with the battery-free Earth Angel, the world's first 100% environmentally-friendly adult toy, which arrived earlier this year.

Working similarly to a wind-up flashlight you might take camping, five minutes of winding creates about 30 minutes of good vibrations.

If you're looking to reduce your environmental footprint, consider the amount of packaging used and the life span of a product. A poorly-made gadget could break down quickly, therefore spending a little extra on quality can save money and reduce waste in the long run.

"Rechargeable is generally considered better," advises Jansen of Good for Her.

Meanwhile, finding Canadian-made products is another way to make a difference.

One option is the Happy Valley line, manufactured in Ontario.

The operation creates about 24 silicone sex toys, which are available in shops across Canada as well as in the U.S., Europe and Japan.

The big show

Last year, The Everything to do with Sex Show spread its wings. The show, which marks its 10th year in Toronto this weekend, has set up shop in London and Halifax and purchased the long-standing Montreal show.

Ears may perk up at the words "sex show," but we are a curious bunch, if numbers are any indication.

Halifax drew a crowd of 10,000, and slightly more than that made their way through the doors in London.

It's true that whatever your fix, this massive libido lifter aims to please, with vendors from across Canada and the U.S. selling everything from books, toys, edible lubes, feather ticklers to lingerie, fetish wear and porn flicks.

"It's different strokes for different folks," explains Mikey Singer, promoter of the event.

"It's a great place for people to shop, but it's also a place to get information. There's a spot for a show like this in every city. When we first went to London, they were very nervous about us, but it was the same thing in Toronto 10 years "

Next year, two more locations will be added.

According to Canadian sex therapist Dr. Laura Zilney, who is hosting several seminars at the Toronto show this weekend, many still shy away from issues beneath-the-sheets.

"Shows like these give people an opportunity to see things and experience things outside of their regular environment," Zilney explains.

"It's not like you're taking your boyfriend to a swinger's club, but you're opening up the lines of communication. You have the resources there to ask questions and there's no shame to it. It's a pretty safe place."

So, who goes to a sex show?

Think couples between the ages of 25 and 50.

"This isn't a show for university students - but their parents certainly come out," Singer laughs.

With so many goodies being targeted toward women, you can guess who's doing the majority of shopping.

"I'd say 90% of the information is for women, and 90% of the toys are for women," says Singer.

"Women are becoming more comfortable with their sexuality. Shows like Sex and the City and Cougar Town have certainly made it more possible. Shows like those wouldn't have even been possible 20 years ago."

Find out more at everythingtodowithsex.com.

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