Merino Wool Fabric Guide

What the flipping heck is Merino wool? Some sort of terrifying fabric made from the thick Basque hair of Arsenal midfielder-cum-target-man Mikel Merino? Nope. Not even close. Please allow us to explain.

What is Merino Wool?

It’s actually wool made from the coat of Merino sheep, which originated on the Iberian Peninsula about 800 years ago or thereabouts. Some shepherd fella called João or Juan out there breeding baa-baas with especially luxurious coats. A visionary, making life better for us all nearly a millennium later. Thank you, Iberian wool daddy.

The Origins of Merino Wool in Fashion

The internet will have you believe that it all started with Coco Chanel making jersey dresses from Merino wool post-WW1, and we reckon the internet is right on this occasion. There was a lull in Merino wool shortly pre, during, and shortly post WWII because… Well, wool was in short supply. The 1950s saw a backlash to rationing led by Christian Dior, Yves Saint Lauren, and Karl Lagerfeld.

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Picnic Polo
Two Toned Wool Navy

£159.00

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Novel Collared Cardigan
Wool Oak

£219.00

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Chronicle Knitted Hoodie | Cotton | Ecru

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£139.00

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Chronicle Knitted Hoodie | Cotton | Black

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Cotton Black

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Why Merino Wool Deserves a Spot in Your Wardrobe

Your wardrobe rotation can only accommodate so many items and fabrics, so why should Merino wool be in there? We present the argument for inclusion.

Is Merino Wool Soft or Itchy?

It’s soft. The fibres are thinner than normal wool, and some are as skinny as a quarter-of-an-inch of a human hair. It’s not going to itch, and it’s going to be lovely and comfy against your skin.

Is Merino Wool Warm Enough for Winter?

Definitely. Have you seen Merino sheep? Do they look cold? Nope, and you won’t be either. Those slimmer fibres will keep the wind out much more effectively than your average wool, whilst maintaining that classic woollen warmth.

Does Merino Wool Shrink?

It will do if you’re not careful. Avoid hot water, avoid fast spin cycles, avoid tumble drying. Use your noggin, basically. Treat it with care and it’ll serve you well.

Felted Wool Jumper in Brown

Merino Wool Outfits

Time for a bit of outfit inspiration. A merino wool top and bottom combo probably isn’t the one, so what are we pairing it with?

Merino Wool Jackets

Turns out Merino wool is the perfect fabric to make a jacket/overshirt with. Perci’s Merino Wool Workshirts are classic and luxurious and durable and stylish and warm. They go with just about anything, too. Truly a wardrobe staple. Pair with Jeans and a plain white T-shirt and you’re good to go. Don’t overthink it.

Merino Wool Cardigans & Sweaters

Because it’s so soft and fine, you’re not limited to just jumpers and jackets. Merino wool makes a cracking Long Sleeve Polo Shirt, and a lovely cardigan too. Pair with jeans or comfy trousers like the Grounds Relaxed Trousers.

Layering Merino Wool with Shirts & Jackets

If you’re going to use Merino wool for layering, make sure you’re pairing with thinner, lighter shirts and T-shirts. Merino wool is luxurious and smooth, but it’s also on the girthy side. A nice Linen Shirt will do the business.

Shop Novel Collared Cardigan in Oak

Caring for Merino Wool

Merino wool is tough and durable, but it also needs a bit of care if it’s going to remain in top condition. Mini care guide incoming:

How to Wash Merino Wool

Ideally, handwash in some gentle detergent and cool water. If you’re going to insist on machine washing, use a low temperature and pH neutral detergent. Scuffs and bumps won’t bother your Merino wool too much, but exposure to high temperatures or overly alkaline or acidic substances will do it no good at all.

Storage Tips Your Nan Forgot to Tell You

Don’t bother hanging it up—you run the risk of distorting the shape of your garment. Just fold it and pop it somewhere dry and out of the way of direct sunlight.

Why Merino Wool Ages Better Than Most

The fibres Merino wool is made from naturally repel dirt and water, as well being springy and longer than most wool fibres, meaning they overlap and provide extra protection against the elements and the ravages of time.