A Pair of Jeans Called Joplin

May 17

The jeans, the woman, and a small wink from the universe…

I’m more than just a little obsessed with my new jeans from Veronica Beard. The style name is, of course, Joplin and it’s so fitting.

I have loved Janis Joplin since I was a little girl. I was born in 1963, so I missed her in real time, but I remember reading about Woodstock and being fascinated. Her bold, raspy voice was unapologetic and soulful and really spoke to me.

Janis was a misfit from a small Texas oil town who became one of the most distinctive singers in American music. She was influenced by Big Mama Thornton and Bessie Smith…two Black women whose talent shaped American music but who were never paid or credited the way they deserved to be.

Years ago I saw her psychedelic Porsche at a car show at the NC Museum of Art. Hand-painted by a friend, every inch of it covered in swirls and faces and color. I stood there a long time looking at the details. Her car was much more interesting than any other car there and I think that sums up her life. She was rough around the edges and interesting with an unrivaled talent for moving people with her music. She was a walking contradiction with a big heart.

Janis was 27 when she died from an accidental heroin overdose…she was so young and so talented. Interestingly, she's part of what's now called the 27 Club... Jimi Hendrix died a couple weeks before her, also at 27. Jim Morrison followed nine months later. They were all the same age.

So…when I put on these jeans and saw the name on the tag, it felt like a little wink from the universe. They were supposed to be mine!

Wide-leg flares, with cream embroidery climbing up the side…they’re the kind of pants you wear when you want to make a bold statement. I paired them with a knit vest from Mango(a little high low), older Gucci platform sandals, a raffia tote from Cult Gaia with a vintage chartreuse silk scarf tied around the handle, gold and turquoise bracelets as well as earrings from Julie Vos, a vintage 1970’s bracelet and my vintage Gucci sunglasses.

Veronica Beard did these jeans so well. The fit is right, the embroidery is gorgeous, and I’m in love with this look that makes me want to sing Piece of My Heart!

Some days an outfit is just an outfit. Some days it's a love letter.