Feather Boa Worn by Janis Joplin

This bright pink ostrich feather boa, or long, thin decorative scarf, was one of several worn by Janis Joplin (1943-1970) toward the end of her career. Joplin typically pinned brightly-colored boas in her hair, creating a colorful halo. Joplin’s clothing often mirrored the psychedelic rock style of the time period and was known for including pops of color, layers of jewelry, and mixed textures. Art Nouveau and Art Deco revivals inspired the era's distorted, whimsical, and surreal design.  

Rising to fame after performing at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival in Monterey, California, Joplin performed with various bands, including the San Francisco based psychedelic rock band Big Brother and the Holding Company, the Kozmic Blues Band, and the Full Tilt Boogie Band. With a distinct voice that crossed the Rock, Soul, and Blues genres, she had multiple hits including “Try (Just a Little Bit Harder),” and cover versions of “Ball and Chain” and “Piece of My Heart.”