Call me old fashioned: Hearkening back to centuries-old Irish farms and the rainy wilds of British isles, something about the storied construction and classic look of a well-made waxed cotton coat gets me every time. As romances tend to go, though, I’ve found good waxed canvas can be awfully tough to find — made more difficult if you’re on the hunt for hardworking, ethical options that are tailored for women.
Enter Portland-bred , which offers one solid line up of thoughtfully designed, impeccably detailed waxed outerwear that ranges from lightweight to extra toasty.
Some background: Bridge & Burn was founded by a computer scientist turned independent designer who’s a little obsessed with attention to detail, craft, value, and quality. Half a decade ago he had trouble finding each of those traits in an affordable jacket, so started crafting his own gear, built to withstand the Pacific Northwest’s mercurial weather.
Bridge & Burn review: The Outsider Collection
The Outsider Collection mirrors that pragmatic, independent streak. Combining original British Millerain waxed canvas with Polartec Thermal Pro fleece, men’s and women’s collections each include a waxed cotton rain jacket, mid-weight field jacket, fully-lined parka, and cozy five-pocket field vest that’s ideal for layering.
Last week the company outfitted me for a walk in the woods in the women’s “Spruce Field Jacket.” Since then I’ve found myself reaching for the Spruce for everything from walking the dogs to running errands on my bike to grabbing a drink with friends — it’s ideal for that unpredictable, temperamental weather that comes along with changing seasons.
Field Jacket: Sizing, color, fit, feel
The Spruce fits like an old-school equestrian barn coat, meant to fit a little bit loose and hit right at the hip. Along with two open slash pockets (lined in cotton flannel), it features a flap-tab chest pocket and interior drop pocket that buttons shut to keep your wallet and phone safe and sound. There are also two double button gussets along the bottom of the back for a perfect fit. The Polartec lining, a high-performing lightweight and waterproof polyester fleece, is thoughtfully curved to provide warmth in just the right spots without looking bulky. Everything’s wrapped in beautifully textured, waterproofed waxed canvas by British Millerain, a company that’s endured two World Wars and has manufactured its sturdy fabrics in the UK since 1880.
From farm to field to Friday night, I’m finding the Spruce is a perfect piece for layering up and getting outside to explore, whether the day calls for a quick city commute or a mountain top adventure. I’m wearing a size small in classic field green.
Also wearing: Made in USA Tradlands Arapahoe Flannel, Goorin Brothers Wool hat, Paige Skyline Jeans, and Wigwam Socks
Spruce Jacket Field Green ℅ Bridge & Burn (sold out — similar Sequoia Jacket)
Fit: True to size. I’m 5’7″, 125 lbs, 32x24x32 and a small fits me well.
Goorin Brothers “County Line” Hat
Similar hats by Janessa Leone, Cuyana, and by Goorin Brothers at Nordstrom.
Tradlands “Arapahoe Red” Flannel Shirt
Made in USA! Wearing a small.
Paige “Skyline Skinny” in black shadow
27R, true to size. Nordstrom, Amazon, The Real Real.
Hudson Horrigan Booties (on sale) in brown
Size info and review.
Wigwam “Cypress” Camp Socks in white/black