Knit dresses for autumn and winter
A knit dress is the cosiest thing you can wear that still looks put together. Pick a natural fibre like merino or cotton if you can, a length that works with tights and boots, and a knit thick enough not to cling.
Check the yarn
The label tells you how a knit will wear.
- Merino and wool are warm, breathe and pill less. They cost more.
- Cotton knits suit mild days and don't itch.
- Acrylic and polyester blends are cheaper but pill and hold smells. Fine for a season, not for years.
Pick the length
Above the knee works with opaque tights and boots. A midi covers more and works with knee high boots or trainers. Check the length in the product photos, because a heavy knit stretches down as you wear it.
Get the fit right
A chunky knit should skim, not cling. A rib knit is meant to be close, like a bodycon, so pick a thicker one for a smoother line. Add a belt if a loose knit swamps you.
More warm options on long sleeve midi dresses.
A sweater dress
One piece, warm, and done in a minute.
- Dress
A knee or midi length sweater dress - Shoes
Knee high boots - Layer
A wool coat
A rib knit
Rib follows your shape, so it looks sleeker than a chunky knit.
- Dress
A fitted rib knit midi - Shoes
Heeled ankle boots - Layer
A leather jacket
Common questions
How do I stop a knit dress pilling?
Pilling comes from friction and from short, synthetic fibres. Natural fibres like merino pill less. Wash it inside out on a gentle cycle, dry it flat, and use a fabric shaver on the bobbles.
When is knit dress season?
In Australia, autumn and winter, March to August. In the US, fall and winter, September to February.