Ways To Wear Merino Knit: A Gentleman’s Guide

Merino knit is the discerning gentleman’s choice – whatever the weather. Here’s how to style this softest of materials.

In our seasons of meteorological flux – where Arcadian sun can beam over snow-dense hills or the bitterest rains thud for weeks – merino knit is the sartorial dilettante's choice du jour. Spun from the pillow soft wool of the Merino sheep, it’s dreamily breathable and draws perspiration away from the skin. Twine this with the insulation provided by the natural fibres’ and you have the most adaptable wardrobe staple – whether heading to a morning yomp or smartening up for Sunday service.

Cozy in cardigans

A merino wool cardigan is emblematic of that most cherished of items: the all-rounder. Available in nine colors – from quintessential navy to dazzling red – it’s most at home with a smart shirt. Whether you keep the top button undone or spruce up with a tie is down to you – and the occasion. Spending a weekend morning at the Aga? Then toss a green leaf cardigan over a simple white cotton t-shirt and you’ll sizzle those sausages in style.

Check out the attache of cardigans

Layer up for libations

Picture the scene. It’s a midwinter Saturday afternoon, the hounds are snoozing and so – nearly – are you. The telephone trills and you get wind of an impromptu old boys reunion at The Crown. But what to wear? The solution is clear: a silky soft merino v-neck sweater. We adore this Burgundy wine hue twined with a shirt and – yes, you’re dressing to impress – a green paisley cravat. With an oat cream Harris Tweed® jacket layered over the top, you’ve enough ballast to withstand walking the country lanes – and then pull back the layers as the huzzahs get louder.

V-neck for sartorial victory

Working smart with the seasons

The weather at this time of year can be fiendish to predict – especially with the prospect of a packed and sweaty Monday morning commute to chambers. The answer is a silky merino wool vest or slipover, layered up over a shirt and necktie. The extra fine wool – spun in the hills of the Alps by Zegna Baruffa: a master yarner that has been plying their honorable trade since 1924 – will provide just enough warmth without leaving you feeling clammy. This slate blue tweed suit over the top ensures you’re representing both town and country.

Wrap up with a merino wool vest

Turtlenecks for chilly necks

Is it us or do the winds get sharper as the years go by? This can be especially true in rural environs, when it whips off the hills with nefarious intent. A 100% merino wool turtleneck – hardy yet lightweight – It's the perfect way to keep your neck toasty with the style meticulously on-point. Available in ten colors, you could casually pair with jeans or go for broke with a Harris Tweed® chore jacket. Those blustery days never seemed so appealing.

Peek at our trove of merino wool turtleneck necks

Merino knit is the season-spanning choice for the sartorially minded chap. Get cozy in cardigans or vivacious in merino v-neck sweaters. A vest or slipover is perfect for a lightweight option or pop on a Paul Newman-esque turtleneck neck and keep the chills at bay.