Feather boas are very long ropes of feathers that are worn as scarves or stoles, draped elegantly over the arms and drooping down the back. They are now considered quite campy, but have periodically been serious fashionwear. Victorian ladies might drape feather boas over their gloved-to-the-elbows arms to appear at the opera. Mae West was renowned for flirtatiously flaunting feather boas, and all her imitators do likewise. Vamping with a boa is now visual shorthand for the sexy vaudeville reviews of the 1890s and early twentieth century.

Feather boas can be made from any of a number of different feathers, but are typically turkey, marabou or ostrich. The feathers can be dyed and usually are, in bright colors to match any outfit. Two-toned feathers are also popular, with the feather dyed one color and tipped in another. White tipped black feather boas can be quite dramatic.

While the fashion for wearing feather boas is regrettably passed, there are still plenty of chances to play the boa-wearing vamp throughout the year. Costume functions are feather boa opportunities, and of course no Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without the full complement of feather boas, in Mardi Gras colors of purple, gold and green.

When selecting feather boas, consider whether they have to look good at a bit of a distance, as for a floor show, and how you are going to wear them. Turkey feather boas show off better from afar, since the feathers are stiffer and stand out in all directions, but a turkey boa can feel bristly and you might not want it rubbing your neck or bare arms. Marabou is softer, droopier and more suitable for wearing against skin. For the full dramatic flavor, feather boas for adults should be at least six feet long. Shorter boas should be selected for the children's dress-up box.