Oftentimes, people struggle to find the right scarf and resist buying one because they don’t know how to know if a particular scarf is high quality. But there are a few things you can look at when selecting your next favorite way of keeping warm while at work, out running errands, or doing anything else that may require some protection from the elements.

1. Feel the Fabric

The fabric of the scarf is a good way to determine how it will feel on your neck and how warm it will make you from your head down to your feet. If you want something more luxurious, go for a scarf that is made of quality wool, cashmere, silk or even cotton. A soft material like those four can really make a big difference in how you feel about wearing a scarf around all day, every day if you want to.

2. Look at the Design

Take an extra minute to look at how the scarf looks once it’s on you and hanging around your neck. A scarf that has a design that is straining in certain places or is crooked probably isn’t one you want to buy. But, if it looks good from all angles, then you might have a nice new scarf for the cold days – or nights – ahead!

3. Check for Pattern Consistency

If your favorite scarf has a pattern, make sure it’s consistent throughout the entire scarf that you’re thinking about purchasing. Whether it’s stripes or polka dots, make sure they’re not going to disappear at some point while you wear it and they’re not going to hit you in an awkward place when the scarf is wrapped around your neck!

4. Check for the Right Length

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “leave some to the imagination” you’ll know exactly what to look for in your next scarf, especially if you’re buying a thicker one. Make sure that it’s not going to come up too far on your neck and it will also cover your mouth. You wouldn’t want to be eating and take a bite out of it!

5. Check for Size Consistency

You wouldn’t want one side of your scarf much wider than the other so look at both and make sure they’re just as wide as each other. A scarf just a little too long or one that does not maintain the same width from the front to back isn’t going to make you too happy when you’re wearing it around your neck.

No matter what you’re looking for in a scarf, there’s a way to find it. Use these tips and you’ll be sure to get what you want!