Playboy
Founded in Chicago in 1953, Playboy drew on Esquire’s concept of masculinity while adding a dose of sex to the traditional men’s magazine. But unlike other girlie magazines of the time, Playboy was successful for more than just its photo spreads. The magazine attracted and retained readers by seeking out high-quality writing and featuring some of the most important writers and artists of the day.
A Playboy tradition that began with the magazine’s second issue was featuring a profile image of a bunny on the cover. The stylized rabbit head wearing a tuxedo bowtie became the logo of the magazine, and an American icon synonymous with sex, fun, and male desire.