How to Choose and Care for a Mulberry Silk Scarf

China is the birthplace of silk, and a mulberry silk scarf is one of the easiest ways to wear that long history every day. Light, warm in winter and cool in summer, silk takes colour beautifully and is the traditional ground for Chinese embroidery.

What is mulberry silk?

Mulberry silk comes from silkworms fed on mulberry leaves. Their cocoons give long, smooth, even filaments, which is why mulberry silk feels so soft and has its characteristic glow. Silk cultivation in China goes back thousands of years, and the trade in Chinese silk gave the Silk Road its name.

Understanding momme

Momme (mm) is a unit that describes the weight, and so the density, of silk fabric. It is not a grade of quality on its own, but it tells you how the scarf will feel:

• Lighter weights drape and float, and are ideal for long scarves and warm weather.
• Heavier weights feel more substantial, hold colour richly and are more opaque.

Check each product page for the fabric, size and weight of the scarf you are considering.

Embroidered or printed?

Hand embroidered silk scarves have stitched motifs that add texture and dimension; each one takes time and is slightly unique. Printed scarves allow larger, painterly designs such as landscapes and florals. Both are beautiful, and both deserve gentle care.

Four easy ways to wear a silk scarf

1. Loose drape over a coat or blouse for an effortless look.
2. Neck knot: fold into a narrow band and tie a small knot to the side.
3. Hair tie: wrap around a ponytail or use as a headband.
4. Bag accent: tie onto the handle of a handbag for a pop of colour.

How to wash and care for silk

• Always follow the care label first. Some embroidered pieces are best dry cleaned.
• To hand wash, use cool water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent made for silk. Swish gently; do not wring or twist.
• Roll in a clean towel to remove water, then dry flat or hang in the shade. Avoid direct sun and tumble dryers.
• Iron on the lowest silk setting while slightly damp, from the back, with a cloth between the iron and any embroidery.
• Store folded in a breathable bag away from sunlight; cedar or lavender helps keep moths away.

Explore our Scarves collection, pair a scarf with an embroidered piece from our Handbags collection, and learn what the flowers on your scarf mean in our guide to Chinese auspicious symbols.