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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!
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!
Tights | Motorcycle Boots | Scarf | Leather 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 ideas, we’ve amassed quite a catalog of merino wool articles to aid your capsule wardrobe choices:
- Best Merino Wool Sweaters
- Best Merino Wool T-Shirts
- Best Merino Wool Leggings
- Best Merino Wool Clothing
On that note, check out more popular picks for the best merino wool travel dress below!
Best Merino Wool Dresses for Winter and Fall
Shop Sizes XS-1X: Wool&
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!
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.”
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!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Wool&
Wool& Maggie Swing Dress Wool
If you’re looking for wool dresses with a relaxed fit, take a spin in this Wool& Maggie swing dress! This breezy dress has a slightly slimmer cut but is still nice and flowy, with short sleeves and a crew neck for a classic look.
Knit from a luxuriously soft wool blend, this is a versatile basic that you can dress up or down! It also comes in a regular, above-the-knee option and a longer knee-length option.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Woolly
Woolly Merino Wool Tunics Dresses
This sweater dress from Woolly has more of a sporty vibe, with all of the functional features to support you on any travel adventure you embark on! It’s mid-weight and easy to layer both over and underneath it, with a slim yet stretchy fit. Add some merino wool leggings and cute ankle boots underneath, and you’re set for a chilly day of sightseeing!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Merino Ridge
Merino Ridge Hyde Dress
This Merino Ridge dress is such a cute staple for chilly travels, with a classic t-shirt dress look that’s slouchy yet flattering. It features long sleeves with thumb holes for extra warmth and zippered hand pockets to keep small essentials secure. Its 100% merino wool terry fabric feels cozy and luxurious, with UPF 50+ sun protection adding to the functionality!
Wearers say it’s easy to dress up and down and is a wonderfully versatile travel piece!
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!
Shop Sizes S-XL: Amazon
Adeptwool Merino Wool Winter Dress
Looking for an Amazon version of Wool&? The Adeptwool swing dress is made of soft knit fabric that can transition from casual to dressy with ease. Wearers say the mid-weight makes it easy to layer with other things, like cardigans, shirts, or more.
The fabric is plush and warm, making this piece easy to pack and amazing for travel.
Learn more about how to pack for cold weather!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino
Unbound Merino Wool T Shirt Dress
This simple yet cute Unbound merino tee dress is perfect from spring to fall and is flattering, comfortable, and low-maintenance. The fabric has a hint of stretch for a cozy fit and is packable.
Perfect for a beach vacay or a jaunt in the city!
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom
Nordstrom Long Sleeve Wool Dresses
With a long and drapey silhouette, this Nordstrom sweater dress is sophisticated and fashion-forward, though it’s still incredibly cozy! The soft merino wool is blended with a touch of cashmere, resulting in a plush and breathable knit. The midi length is quite chic, too.
A gorgeous winter must-have!
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.
Have you ever traveled with a merino wool dress? Please comment below!
For more travel dresses, please read:
- Midi Dresses for Women That Are Versatile and Stylish
- Best Winter Dresses for Women
- Best Dresses With Pockets for Work, Play, or Travel
- We Found the Perfect Little Black Travel Dress
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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!
I am looking for a short sleeve/tank wool crew neck dress for europe trip this september. any suggestions?
Hi Susan, you might find a dress that would work for you here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-t-shirt-dress/
Have the most amazing time on your travels!
Is it too late to comment? Can anyone recommend a brand of merino wool dress that is sleeveless? I want to throw it over tights and long sleeve tops everyday.
Hi Alissa, thank you for your question! Take a look at this TFG post for some suggestions: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/merino-wool-dress/. Hope it helps! 🙂
Wooland.com has a few of those.
Wooland has several sleeveless dresses. Kalle is my absolute favorite— can look casual or super professional. There are also several others that are well loved!
Great outfit! Did you have any static issues with the tights and wool dress?
Actually, I think I did initially but haven’t had any issues any more 🙂
I have a similar cashmere/cotton stretch maxi dress that I LOVE for traveling. It’s made by majestic filaments.
Sounds perfect!
Thx for the recommendation. I love quality essentials especially anything linen or cashmere.
Once again, Alex, you solve my travel wardrobe conundrums!! I would wear dresses and tunics everyday if I could, but anything made of the “technical” fabrics suitable for travel are … Not my style.
I tried a 100% bamboo cotton dress- nope, wrinkle city
I tried a “technical cashmere” tunic….none of the insulating or wicking properties I’d hope for from a wool.
So, given your glowing recommendation, I can assume that this dress covers those bases?
I would love see a review or list of non-wool clothing for travel. I can’t wear wool due to allergies; oh it makes finding quality warm and transitional clothes hard. I’d wear that dress in a heartbeat, if it wasn’t wool; plus I wouldn’t have to hem it I’m 5’8” (finding a real Maxi dress is my challenge, can’t un-hem it)
Thanks for the suggestion Natalie!
I’d go with fleece? I love fleece, and it still insulates when wet, and dries super quickly!
It looks great on you! I love the neckline and the sleeves on this one. A merino wool dress is on my wish list for travel to PNW in October and it’s so hard to find one that is simple, flattering on an hourglass and with a proper fit for a petite 5’1″. I’m so happy that you shared that this one was able to be altered. When I’ve purchased from Ibex before their tanks were a little small on me but I assumed that is because they were meant to be fitted base layers (I ordered my normal jersey size) so that is the only debate, what size to order (I’m narrow shouldered but busty so sizing is always a challenge, order up and the shoulders aren’t right). I also like Athleta styles and they carry petites but they only do merino wool occasionally (never been a style that grabbed me) and I’d really like a merino wool style in a less sporty option.
Thanks for the comment Tania! Glad that you found this post helpful! I always say to go a size bigger to be on the safe side! Safe travels!
I tried Icebreaker merino cardigan and tops , it made me itch so bad that I couldn’t last for more then a few minutes in it. Wool makes me itch horribly so imagine my hope that maybe merino wool is ok , but nope. I itch just as bad. I wish I can rock this dress too.
I’m sorry to hear that Anita 🙁 Clearly wool isn’t for you
While I do not have any merino wool dresses, I wear merino wool skirts year round–even in the summer in middle Tennessee. I was 97 degrees here yesterday in downtown Nashville and I had on a merino wool skirt. I plan to take two on vacation with me when I vacation in Panama City Beach later this summer. Because the merino wool regulates your body temperature no matter whether it is summer or winter, you can wear the light-weight merino year round–and I do. I have many Ibex and Icebreaker products, and I love them all.
I totally agree Theresa 🙂 Merino Wool is great for different climates and I love it too!
This is an awesome dress! I love the other merino wool clothes I have, so I know this would be worn a lot! Thanks for the tip!
You’re welcome Natasha 🙂 Glad you like it!
I haven’t tried out this brand, but that Juliet dress is gorgeous. I’ve got a Christmas trip to Europe coming up later this year and I might have to try it out!
I love it! Enjoy your trip to Europe and your new dress too!
I’ve worn icebreaker dresses- love merino wool- but never ibex. I think I’ll have to find that dress!
Go for it Anne! It’s fantastic!
So tempting for our Ireland trip!
I’m loving your blog. I’m going to Europe for the first time this year and all your tips are healing me sort everything out! Thanks so much!
You’re blog is wonderful! I love all the tips you give even down to the little details I would totally space on! This blog is going to help me make my first trip to Europe a breeze!
Thank you Abigail 🙂 Don’t forget to check out the 10 step packing guide for Europe http://bit.ly/1rJAy3y for more tips and tricks! Have a fantastic time!
You’re welcome Abigail 🙂 Don’t forget to check out the 10 step guide for Europe too http://bit.ly/1rJAy3y
What are the tights that you are wearing? I always have trouble finding the right pair..
Hey they are a pair from H&M 🙂
Thanks for posting this dress! i love wool and ibex…this will be perfect for my next trip!
Thanks Shanna, hope you like it as much as I do 🙂
You look so great with your outfit. So shocked knowing you’ve encountered an overpacking experience with just 7 pieces of clothes. I believe that the type of cloth is thick enough. Anyways, if you won’t mind me asking, what brand of travel bag you are using?
Hi Stanley! On this trip I took my TimBuk2 laptop bag but I usually travel with Osprey or Delsey luggage.
Love this dress! I think I would “overpack” to make sure I have it with me too!!!
It’s pretty awesome 🙂