As a subculture of BDSM, bondage involves people being bound, tied up, or restrained for pleasure. More often than not, bondage is performed as a sexual practice. The derivation of pleasure or sexual gratification by bondage is also known as vincilagnia, from the root words vincio- meaning to bind or fetter with chains, and -lagneia which means lust.
Recent studies show that approximately three-quarters of all men in the United states think of the idea of bondage as erotic, and so do other women. This only goes to show that the sexual appeal of bondage appeals to both sexes regardless of sexual orientation.
In terms of fashion, leather has been a staple piece for most people in the BDSM culture. This not only serves as their a statement, most accessories and equipments used for BDSM activities like whips, belts, cuffs, and restraints are often made of leather.
Even though most bondage games end up in sexual activities, not all bondage role plays turn out that way. On the contrary, role plays between casually acquainted partners may just end up in masturbation, or, believe it or not, no sexual release at all.
Safety is always a key issue...