Navy blazer: Spier Mackay MTO vs Natalino mock leno vs Armoury balloon
I want to buy a navy blazer that I expect to wear very infrequently (date nights mostly). While I can "afford" the Armoury model 3 balloon navy sportscoat (~$1350), I am hesitant to pull the trigger given how infrequently I expect to wear the blazer. Curious if folks here think the quality of the Armoury model 3 is worth the significant increase in price.
My other options are Spier Mackay MTO or the Natalino mock leno. I am going with the MTO because OTR coats don't fit me at the waist. I expect to spend some money to let out the waist on the Natalino mock leno. Both options are around ~$550ish.
Thoughts on style/fit/quality of these options?
6 Replies
If you're not very picky about details then I'd just go with sm or natalino
Thanks. What sort of details would you expect to see with Armoury/Ring? If it is about buttons or neatness of stiching and such, I don't care. If it is about loose threads ("quality"), easier arm movement because of higher armholes ("fit") or visible style details like better lapel roll, then I would care.
I'd hunt for a used one
If you're gonna wear it very infrequently and you're not a blazer/tailoring guy in general then I would probably go for spier or natalino. Maybe try natalino or OTR spier first before you risk MTO in case you're not a good fit for their block.
I love my model 3 - it's a beautiful jacket. But I wear it a lot bc I just really like wearing tailoring, which helps justify the cost to me. I also got it made in a really sturdy, patterned cloth - it can get a light stain or two and I'll continue to wear it like I already do.
Also, a huge plus for the armoury is going there in person to get advice on fit and complimentary alterations - if you're not able to shop there in person I think some of that value is lost.
Thanks. This is what I am leaning towards now. While I like the content that Armoury produces and I want to support them, I don't think I can justify the extra $800 just yet. I am planning to get a Natalino. Hopefully it will fit reasonably well. In another year or so, if I find myself wearing the sports coat frequently, then I won't hesitate to splurge on an Armoury jacket.
I have not seen these jackets popup in ebay (SM shows up, but typically not in my size). I guess sports coats get grabbed quickly?
I just meant any brand navy blazer. There’s a lot of PRL and other brands you can grab on eBay for cheaper. You can make a separate thread or search for brands to look for here