PORT TOWNSEND — Not so long ago, “girlie” calendars were hidden away in mechanics’ back rooms, with hell to pay if anybody’s wife or daughter ever noticed.
Today, such calendars are not only proudly displayed, but include the wife, daughter or even the mother of someone you may know.
The Port Townsend version, now in its second year, is sponsored by Slather, a downtown lingerie emporium that sells all types of fancy undergarments imported mostly from (where else?) France.
One would hope that local women wouldn’t take off their clothes for just anything, so proceeds from the sale of the calendar will directly benefit Jefferson County residents affected by cancer with support to the Edensaw Community Cancer Fund.
The charity, which is locally operated, provides help in the form of help with utilities and transportation for cancer patients.
Slather co-owner Sophie Elan, one of February’s models, said this year’s 1,000-edition press run is twice the number for 2010.
“We wanted to create some excitement in the community, and also raise money for a great cause,” she said.
The calendar features 36 women, three for each month, with thematic sets.
One is centered around a construction site, while another is decidedly East Indian.
The women are diverse.
“We have all ages and sizes,” Elan said.
“We go from a 30-A bra size to a 44-F.”
Two of the women are pregnant, and all of them are proud.
Photographer Jim Lamb, who did both calendars, said he created a friendly atmosphere on the set where the models were comfortable and felt no pressure.
He said that many women wanted to participate and none had second thoughts — at least not after they arrived at the studio.
The shoots took over the studio above the Sweetwater Cafe, with one month shot each day for twelve more-or-less consecutive days.
“Many of the women participated because cancer had affected someone they know,” he said.
“It was a labor of love.”
The Slather 2011 calendar is available for $20 at 922 Water St., or by phoning 360-379-1437.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
