Sexual trends for couples in 2025 | Part 1

The quick guide to sex trends couples should know this year

We get it – you’re busy. You barely have time for a cup of tea, never mind getting down and dirty with your partner. On top of that, you don’t want to be missing out on some new sex thing. You don’t want to be that person at your next party who is blissfully unaware of the latest bedroom techniques.

So don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. We’ve collated some of the top sex trends and habits that couples are getting into this year.

Karezza and slow sex

Couples are embracing slow, purposeful intimacy — focused on connection and sensation rather than orgasm — like Karezza and sensual massage techniques.

And what is Karezza? We’re glad you asked. As you can read on Healthline: “The goal of Karezza, unlike most kinds of sexual intercourse, is not orgasm but reaching a relaxed state of union with your sexual partner.”

This YouTube video gives you a quick run-down.

Speed things up with the Cinderella rule

Maybe slowing things down is the exact opposite of what you were thinking. You’re busy, you ain’t got time for all the preliminaries and getting in the mood.

Say hello to the Cinderella rule or scheduled “sexy time”.

Many couples are following the “Cinderella rule” by setting a last call for intimacy. In practice that means starting sex at 10:10 pm and lights out by 10:30 pm. This is helping many busy couples maintain physical connection without huge time commitments.

Exploring all 5 senses

A trend gaining momentum this year is enhanced intimacy through lighting, music, scents, textures, taste (edible lubes), and tactile toys.

Soft, dim lighting—like candles or warm LED strips—sets a relaxed, sensual tone.

Background music with slow rhythms or romantic lyrics can help sync partners’ moods and breathing.

Scents like vanilla, sandalwood, or jasmine—delivered via essential oils or incense—trigger arousal and memory.

Adding lush textures like silk sheets, faux fur throws, or a heated blanket intensifies skin-to-skin sensations.

Edible lubricants in flavors like strawberry, mint, or chocolate invite playful exploration of taste while keeping things slippery and fun.

Tactile toys, from feather ticklers to vibrating massagers, offer varied stimulation that builds anticipation and deepens connection.

Shop at NZ’s Sinful store for sex toys and more

But wait – there’s more

Watch out for our next post when we’ll explore more tops sex trends of 2025.