GET THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL PACKING LIST! (Yes. It's editable, printable & FREE)

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

 

Wondering what to wear in spring or autumn when the weather’s still cold but occasionally sunny? Dresses are a great option for this time of year. Take a look at the merino wool dress that almost made me overpack for Paris – I love it! I also share some other ideas for dresses that could make it into your cold-weather wardrobe! 

 

Dresses can easily be layered with tights, scarves, and jackets for cold days and worn alone when warm. Find out more here.

 


Merino Wool Dress


 

 

When I went to Paris and London in 2015, I ever-so-carefully selected my 7 Piece Capsule Wardrobe. I felt so absolutely accomplished!

Can you believe it? Just 7 pieces for one week! I finally moved on from my Essentials Packing List and downsized to the Minimalista Packing List, despite a forecast of rain and a chilly 55°F average.

 

 

What I Packed:

  • 1 Jeans
  • 2 Dresses
  • 4 Tops

 

Additional, non-capsule pieces included: 2 outerwear, 1 pair of Ibex thermals, and 1 sleepwear set.

This doesn’t seem like much, does it? I even packed it all into my 30L daypack for a total of 4kg (9 lbs).

So how did I manage to overpack?

 

Keep reading to find out what wonderful item pleasantly turned my minimalist packing list into an overpacking experience!

 

 

merino-wool-dress

The answer: THE MANSFIELD MERINO WOOL DRESS BY IBEX
Here is a similar dress from Wool&

 

When I first saw the dress, I liked the idea of it. It had long sleeves, a classic shape, it was available in black, and it had a round neckline that covered me where I wanted to be covered without choking me.

In addition to being a basic travel wardrobe piece, my biggest selling point was that it is 100% Merino wool. This makes it ideal for travel in cold weather, plus it has the ability to be worn repeatedly without washing.

But I never expected to fall in love with it so much that I would wear it four times in one week! And in London AND Paris!

Originally I HAD planned to wear it twice: on my travel day to London and on my travel day back from Paris. This would have allowed me to pack only three tops and one more dress for the other five days.

When I first tried it on, it seemed to drown me in my 5’2″ stature, so I had it hemmed to 3 inches above my knee. This made a much more flattering and wearable fit.

 

Find out the best fabric alternatives to merino wool and why they are so great!

 

merino-wool-dress

TightsMotorcycle BootsScarfLeather Jacket

 

I paired it with black tights, black motorcycle boots, a black scarf, and a maroon leather jacket. As I walked from the train to the Tube and through London I couldn’t help but notice a certain bounce in my step. Was it the fact that I was wearing my favorite ten-year-old boots? A snug, rocking leather jacket? That I packed super light for my one week trip?

And then I realized it: No. It was the dress. It just made me feel good. It was comfortable, classic, and with the new hem–even sexy; modest, paired with tights, of course.

I can’t explain it, but I found myself seated in Heathrow waiting for my friend to arrive and falling more in love with the dress. At that moment I envisioned myself wearing it for our free New Europe city tour in Paris and maybe even to the Eiffel Tower two days later.

Whether you’re looking for something in autumn, spring, or a mix-weather trip – a merino wool dress like this one is a great choice!

A merino dress not only became my favorite during that trip but many readers have been also asking for more “dress me weather” ideas since this type of item allows you to still wear a dress without feeling super cold. 

 

If you want more help with European destinations, check out our packing guides for London and Paris!

 

 

On that note, check out more popular picks for the best merino wool travel dress below!

 

 

Best Merino Wool Dresses for Winter and Fall

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom

 

Nordstrom Rib Long Sleeve Wool Dresses

 

Though this is a wool and cashmere blend, this Nordstrom wool long sleeve dress is soft, shapes the body well, and has a lovely ribbed texture. Pair it well with loafers, ankle boots, or knee-high boots.

One review says it all, “Once you put it on, you don’t want to take it off! It feels so nice to the skin. The quality is really on par with more expensive dresses. It’s mid-weight, shows off your curves but doesn’t show imperfections, hangs beautifully on your body.”

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-1X: WoolX

 

Wool& Long Wool Dress

 

A classic black wool dress is a solid go-to and so other colors too, this merino wool blend dress from Wool& is a super versatile choice. With a flouncy bottom and sleeveless, it is flowy, flirty, and fun! Sleeveless, pocketed, and made with this lightweight signature jersey fabric.

This style also comes equipped with two side pockets for any of your essential needs! If there is one piece that you need to get you through the summer heat… this dress MUST be at the top of your list.

Try other accessories with it like a belt, moto jacket, and a stylish (but warm) hat!

 

Find out what’s the best merino wool clothing for travel!

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-L: Icebreaker

 

Icebreaker Merino Rye Granary Dress

 

This Icebreaker piece has a cute t-shirt dress style and is described as super soft and ideal for anyone who likes a looser fit. You can layer with cardigans, turtlenecks, jackets, and of course, you can add tights underneath. 

One user raves about this, saying, “Perfect modern twist on a classic black dress! I love the quality, comfort, and feel. It’s soft, breathable, and light. You can easily dress this look up or down with accessories!”

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino

 

Unbound Merino Sleeveless Merino Wool Dress

 

For a bit of versatility, this Merino Travel dress can create many a merino wool outfit! Add a blouse or tee underneath, layer a jacket or blazer, or add accessories like a belt or dangly necklace. At mid-knee length, it’s a classic, yet simple piece that’ll last season after season!

A wearer shares the features of this dress, saying, “Love how pretty this dress is! So comfortable and easy to dress up or down.” Other one says, “I purchased this little black dress for a winter trip to Iceland. High black boots and a cashmere sweater and it was the perfect travel outfit. Very comfortable for an all night flight (for those of us that refuse to travel in sweat pants!) Can’t wait to use for a summer destination next.”

Made with breathable, odor-resistant and quick-drying merino fabric it also has a lining so you have full coverage. You can also wear this in the summer!

 

These are the best merino wool sweaters, according to our readers!

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XXS-XL: Nordstrom

 

Eileen Fisher T Shirt Dress Wool

 

If you’re looking for relaxed shirt wool dresses, take a spin in this Eileen Fisher crewneck t shirt dress with 100% wool. This breezy T-shirt dress cut in a classic crewneck silhouette and knit from luxuriously soft wool yarns and above the knee-length give it classic details. A versatile basic that you can dress up or down! 

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-2X: Wool&

 

Wool& Rowena Merino Wool Swing Dress

 

A major reader-favorite, this Wool& Rowena wool dresses with long sleeves is neutral yet full of function. It has a minimalist design that means you can style it up in endless ways, but you could totally keep it simple with sneakers for a chic and pared-down look — and it’s super flattering either way! It has a high neck, slim sleeves, and a flowy skirt, with side pockets to store your mini essentials. 

One wearer shares, “I love the Rowena Swing dress! It’s so comfortable and flowy. It’s great on cooler days as well as layering with my winter sweaters when it’s really cold. I also wear it during the summer! It feels feminine yet still allows me to have comfort while being active outdoors.” 

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes S-XL: Amazon

 

Liny Xin Merino Wool Tunics Dresses

 

Described as “the softest cashmere,” the Liny Xin cowl neck sweater dress is 100% merino wool, soft and inviting beset with cozy pockets. Would look fab with long boots, leggings, and ankle boots, or on its own (but don’t sacrifice warmth when you don’t have to!).

One reviewer explains her total adoration of this dress, saying, “This is a beautiful woolen sweater-dress. The merino wool is thick and looks heavy, but it is actually fairly light-weight and this sweater feels very cozy and warm. I like the pockets — they are generously sized and well-positioned, too!”

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Backcountry

 

Smartwool Diamond Peak Quilted Dress

 

This Smartwool raglan-style dress is cozy and could be your “right one”! Made from a merino-polyester blend, It features a quilted front and back with long sleeves which keep you warm and front pockets that are great for storing your small essentials. 

This is described as, “A great Casual dress for travel or out and about. It’s also perfect to wear when you’re sightseeing. Just throw on some comfortable boots of your choice and you’re good to go! Comes in sizes XS-XL.

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Nordstrom: Sizes XXS-XXL | Plus Sizes 1X-3X

 

Madewell Merino Wool Winter Dress

 

Super stylish, the Madewell sweater dress is cozy due to the soft ribbed texture that allows for movement, yet has a nice-looking column cut. The above the knee length allows your legs some breathing room, too. 

A gorgeous winter must-have!

 

Learn more about how to pack for cold weather!

 

 

merino-wool-dress

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

 

Quince ​​Turtleneck Merino Wool Sweater Dress

 

Made from 100% Australian merino wool, this Quince wool sweater dress is an adorable turtleneck style with a relaxed fit with drop shoulders.   

One happy user says, “This dress will be perfect for the fall/winter. Super comfortable and very cute!” Another one adds, “Love love love. I’m a little wide in the hips, and this is still a flattering sweater dress. The quality is INCREDIBLE! I can’t believe the price, and am so grateful it didn’t blow my budget. Did I mention how PRETTY AND SOFT and comfy it is? And THANK YOU THANK YOU for making it knee length—which is so hard to find. I’m between and M and a L typically, and the M fit me perfectl”

Would look amazing with ankle boots, flats, or wedges to turn up the oomph factor! Or it could be layered stylishly with a trench coat.  

 

Tip: you may not want a full dress, so maybe consider merino woolen maxi skirts, their length covers up the legs when chilly and a skirt allows you to revolve tops and create a “new” wool skirt outfit every time! 

 

 

Merino Wool Dress Comparison Chart

 

BRAND | MODEL FEATURES | REVIEWS RATING | PRICE
merino-wool-dress Nordstrom Rib Long Sleeve Wool Dresses “Once you put it on, you don’t want to take it off! It feels so nice to the skin. The quality is really on par with more expensive dresses. It’s mid-weight, shows off your curves but doesn’t show imperfections, hangs beautifully on your body.” Check Price
Wool& Long Wool Dress This was my reward dress for the 100 day challenge. I was very unsure of a maxi length dress on my body, but I absolutely love it! The fit is not to snug but also not too loose. The fabric is lightweight and breezy, but still plenty warm enough for my Ohio winter weather when paired with a long sleeved tee and leggings. Check Price
Icebreaker Merino Rye Granary Dress “Perfect modern twist on a classic black dress! I love the quality, comfort, and feel. It’s soft, breathable, and light. You can easily dress this look up or down with accessories!” Check Price
Unbound Merino Sleeveless Merino Wool Dress “Love how pretty this dress is! So comfortable and easy to dress up or down.” Check Price
Eileen Fisher T Shirt Dress Wool This breezy T-shirt dress cut in a classic crewneck silhouette and knit from luxuriously soft wool yarns and above the knee-length give it classic details. Check Price
Wool& Rowena Merino Wool Swing Dress “I love the Rowena Swing dress! It's so comfortable and flowy. It’s great on cooler days as well as layering with my winter sweaters when it's really cold. I also wear it during the summer! It feels feminine yet still allows me to have comfort while being active outdoors.”  Check Price
Liny Xin Merino Wool Tunics Dresses “This is a beautiful woolen sweater-dress. The merino wool is thick and looks heavy, but it is actually fairly light-weight and this sweater feels very cozy and warm. I like the pockets -- they are generously sized and well-positioned, too!” Check Price
Smartwool Diamond Peak Quilted Dress “A great Casual dress for travel or out and about.” Check Price
Madewell Merino Wool Winter Dress Knit from a cozy-warm—but not too—wool blend, this sweater-dress is ready for pumpkin-spice season in an appropriately autumnal hue. Check Price
Quince ​​Turtleneck Merino Wool Sweater Dress  “This dress will be perfect for the fall/winter. Super comfortable and very cute!” Check Price

 

 


Have you ever traveled with a merino wool dress? Please comment below!


 

For more travel dresses, please read:

 


 

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

merino-wool-dress

 


I hope you enjoyed this post on my favorite merino wool dress. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!


*Ibex sent me a complimentary dress and I genuinely loved it!