Safeword

Safeword is a small shop located in the "benign neglect" of Times Square, sandwiched between a by-the-hour hotel and a second-run theater marquee. Safeword ostensibly offers custom leathercraft — whether that be clothing or implements. However, behind it's decal-laden metal door, the narrow space reveals floor-to-ceiling racks. Costumes, lingerie, and fetishwear slowly give way to whips, ball gags, and dildos as one moves farther back. Low rows of Lucite heels and ballet boots sit on either side of the counter. At the very back of the shop, a beaded curtain hints at the darkened hallway beyond. Coin operated booths line either side, offering live peepshows to the left, and scratchy films (and glory holes) to the right.