A method of applying a top coat to an article according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, among other possible things includes applying a first feedstock comprising particles of oxide-based material having diameters between about 1 and about 80 microns via a thermal spray process to form a first top coat layer on an article having a bond coat and applying a second feedstock comprising particles of oxide-based material having diameters between about 15 and about 60 microns via the thermal spray process to form a second top coat layer on the first top coat layer. An article and a barrier layer for an article are also disclosed.