How to tell if a scarf is high quality.

Until I got into the scarf business, I had no idea there were so many thickness types for silk scarves. You can tell the difference in quality based on how well the scarf ties, how easily it crushes, how quickly it fades and wears, or simply how fragile it feels.

When I started Onarc, I was determined to offer the highest quality scarves. I was tired of buying beautiful scarves only to find they barely lasted a year or two before looking worn out.

Silk Thickness – The Key to QualityThere are four common thickness levels for silk scarves, measured in "momme" (mm).

• 12mm – Light and sheer

• 14mm – A bit sturdier but still quite delicate

• 16mm – Durable with a more luxurious feel

• 18mm – The highest standard, used by luxury brands like Hermès – and Onarc.

Most stores advertise their scarves as 100% silk, but they rarely mention the thickness – which is the most important detail when it comes to durability and feel.

If the thickness isn’t listed, here are a few ways to tell if a scarf is thinner than 18mm:

• It’s quite see-through, especially when held up to the light.

• It catches easily on jewelry or hair clips, causing pulls in the fabric.

• The rolled edges flatten or unroll after minimal wear.

How to Tell if a Scarf is Thinner than 18mm

1. Check the Transparency - Hold the scarf up to the light. If it’s highly see-through, it’s likely a thinner silk like 12mm or 14mm. Thicker silk (18mm) will have more body and opacity.

2. Look at the Rolled Edges - High-quality scarves have hand-rolled edges that maintain their shape. Thinner silk tends to flatten out quickly or unroll after a few wears.

3. Feel the Fabric - Thicker silk feels soft but substantial. If the scarf feels paper-thin or too delicate, it’s likely on the lower end of the thickness scale.

4. Durability - Thinner silk is more prone to catching on jewelry, bag zippers, or clips, which can cause pulls. Thicker silk like 18mm holds up much better over time.

   
   

Why Thickness Matters

Silk scarves are an investment, and choosing an 18mm silk scarf ensures that you’re getting something that will last. It not only feels more luxurious but also resists fading, crushing, and wear.

At Onarc, all our scarves are made with 18mm silk – the same thickness used by luxury brands – because quality should never be compromised.

So next time you’re shopping for a silk scarf, check the details. Trust me, once you’ve experienced 18mm silk, there’s no going back!