I purchased the merlot color (although it comes up as burgundy when I added it to the cart), as a shawl for a dress to wear to a wedding. The color is true to the name, although it is a slightly a brighter color than the picture, which was perfect. The scarf is incredibly soft and looks nice enough to wear to an occasion such as a wedding but also can be worn for every day use. The free gift I received was of the same color, but it was a lighter and smaller scarf. It was labeled as a summer/spring scarf which is a great description. I loved both, although I wish the free gift would have been in a different color. The larger scarf is thicker than the free gift I received, but both seem like they could be susceptible to tears if you are not careful, but I can't say for certain until I have used it for an extended period of time. Either way, at this price, I am very happy with the purchase.