I've never owned a scarf, being from south Louisiana it's not absolutely neccessary.  I bought this one out of curiosity and to kep me warm.  It is fantastic!  The 'Pashmina' (polyester blend? acrylic blend?) is indeed much softer than cashmere, it's long enough for a double wrap if you'd like and it has kept it's color perfectly.  Sadly, my color is no longer available (i was going to get one to make a scarf convert of my father) but will get him the houndstooth one.  Or maybe he'll get my old one...It looks brand new after an entire Winter, after all!