Feather boas, worn as scarves or stoles, have been fashionable throughout history. They are usually made from turkey, marabou, or ostrich feathers, and dyed in bright colors. While not commonly worn today, they are still popular for costumes and Mardi Gras celebrations. Buyers should consider the type of feathers and length when selecting a boa.
Feather boas are very long strings of feathers worn as scarves or stoles, elegantly draped over the arms and down the back. Now they are considered quite kitschy, but periodically they have been serious fashion. Victorian ladies might place boas on their elbow-length gloved arms to appear at the opera. Mae West was famous for her coquettishly ostentatious feather boas, and all her impersonators do the same. Vaping with a boa is now visual shorthand for the sexy vaudeville reviews of the 1890s and early 20th century.
Any of several different feathers can be used to make a boa, but they are usually made from turkey, marabou, or ostrich. Feathers can be, and usually are, dyed in bright colors to match any outfit. Two-tone feathers are also popular, with some dyed one color and tipped in another. White-tipped black feather boas can be quite dramatic.
While most people no longer wear these items normally, there are still plenty of opportunities to play boa-wearing vampire all year long. Costume functions are good opportunities, and of course, no Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without the full complement of purple, gold, and green.
When selecting feather boas, buyers should consider whether they need to look good from a distance, such as for a ground show, and how they will be used. Turkey feather boas look best from afar, as the feathers are stiffer and stick out in all directions, but they can feel bristly and uncomfortable when rubbed against your bare neck or arms. Marabou is softer, drier, and better suited to wear against the skin. For full dramatic flavor, those used by adults should be at least 6 feet (1.8 m) long. Shorter boas should be selected for the children’s costume box.
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