Spier & Mackay Navy Luigi Botto Waffle Texture Sportcoat – $328
NOTE: Ryan N. is 5’9″, 155 and is wearing a slim fit 36R in this post. These sportcoats / blazers are available in either a slim or contemporary fit.
You know the old joke. How do you get to good fall outerwear? Texture, texture, texture.
Okay, that’s enough of that. But if texture is what you’re looking for, meet your new best friend. The Luigi Botto Waffle Texture Blazer (so named for the luxury fabric’s source) is Spier & Mackay’s first triple-patch-pocket sportcoat, and boy, is it a heck of a first swing. To quote the item’s description, “the texture creates great visual depth while the deep navy colour allows it to remain versatile with both denim and trousers.” Couldn’t have said it better myself, but why not expand on everything noted?
Under the Hood
While many fall-ready sportcoats end up a bit weighty, Spier & Mackay went for a three-season 320gsm weight that’s 99% merino wool with a 1% stretch. A 1/4-butterfly, Cupro lining pairs up with the usual list of great features comprising a Spier sportcoat: half-canvas construction, genuine horn buttons (as well as the always appreciated tailoring-ready sleeve buttons), and the unpadded Spalla Camicia “shirt-style” shoulders, which this reviewer found very comfortable. As a result, it feels light but far from flimsy when you put it on, and drapes wonderfully. They really like to nail the details.
Partially lined in the back. Half canvas construction. Natural shoulders.
Oooooh, That Texture
Can’t really say enough about it – this texture oozes autumn (I’m pretty sure “texture” is kind of the dapper version of “basic”) and feels great to the touch. Lots of visual interest, but without being loud and in-your-face. It’s chunky without being heavy, and they aren’t kidding when they say the navy color goes with denim as well as trousers.
99% Merino Wool/1% Stretch waffle fabric. Chunky and textured without being heavy.
Pairing It Up
Thankfully, it’s starting to look a bit more like fall around here, and I donned a few different styles for the shoot. Up top of the post is a mashup of more casual blues, and below is a more formal collar/sweater getup, as well one of my favorite pink button-down polos. This can handle a light layer like it’s nothing, while still feeling just fine with a thin polo.
Patch Pockets
Well, you don’t see this every day… these are some of the most flush-sewn patch pockets I’ve ever worn. I mean, usually patch pockets are popping off the jacket, making their presence very known. A subtle transition from pocket to jacket is a breath of fresh air, and an especially well-thought-out choice when dealing with an already chunky texture. It makes the jacket drape that much nicer. Kudos!
Fit, Feel, and Final Notes
No negatives to really speak of here. I mean, there’s the chance those little nooks and crannies can catch some crumbs, but maybe hold over your plate, eh?
Shoulders hug nicely, button stance is perfect, the 3.5″ lapels are nice and balanced, and no collar gap – my biggest qualm with off-the-rack suiting. Waist tapers nicely with room for a light layer underneath, but doesn’t feel floaty without one, either. Arms were ever-so-slightly long on me, but the non-functional sleeve buttons make that an easy fix. Three inner pockets (one on each side, plus a pen pocket) join the three sewn-shut patch pockets on the outside.
Being new to Spier, I had obviously heard a lot of good things, but couldn’t know for sure until I had one in my hands. Once you have a feel for your size, you can often know whether a jacket will be too big, too small, or just right as soon as you put your first arm in. My first thought was, “Well, I know where I’m getting my next suit.”
About the Author: Ryan N. is a professional web developer for (and alum from) the University of Delaware, who keeps a close shave as to not be confused with his strongly-bearded twin brother. He plays guitar and drums, loves going to concerts with his wife, and loves being a dad.
