I liek jacket #1 slightly better. I'm guessing that is the "splurge". There's not a lot of difference, though.

I like jacket #1 too. It looks like it fits you better through the shoulders. Jacket 2 looks like it has puffier sleeve caps. Both are nice. I had to zoom in on the pictures to really see the differences in fit.

I like the first one slightly better as well. But the second is one is equally nice so no need to go for the more expensive one, especially if the price difference is significant.

I prefer the first one too. I think the gold hardware of the second one is off-putting for me, but certainly not by a longshot. If the second one is cheaper, I would go for it.

I'm with all the others. I like the first one best because of the buttons, but the style, length, fit, etc. seem almost identical otherwise. Does one wrinkle more easily than the other? A navy blazer seems like a timeless piece. Get the one that makes you feel fab.

Me too. I think the fit of #1 is just a bit better. Not sure if it's the splurge but it seems to be a little more well made.

Very interesting question Sarah. I feel the first one has a cleaner, nicer line to it. However that does not mean it was the splurge because I see alot of designer items that are intentionaly made to look pretty frumpy. But I'm still going to go with my first impression and guess that the first one was the splurge.

Is the second one from Gap? I think the tag looks like a Gap tag. I might be wrong. :)

The first one looks more luxurious to my eyes. But they're so similar that I'd probably go with the less expensive one if it is considerably less expensive.

Both Jackets are beautiful, like you posted you can always change the buttons. However I'm leaning toward jacket 1.

I am also guessing no 1 is the splurge

I like number one the best, the cut,colour,fit and fabric look better on this one. I'd like to say this one is the splurge but i've got a horrible feeling it will be the second one which is the most expensive x

I tried to study your photos before reading the comments, and I thought the first jacket looked more expensive.

When are you going to reveal the truth? I'm suffering from suspense. :-)

Both jackets look good. It was hard for me to see a big difference. The first one looks like a more classic style, and the second one a more slouchy style. But it seemed like a subtle difference to me.

I am voting for the jacket no.1 as well. I would say that this one is the splurge, I am looking forward to hearing which one you choose and which one is the most expensive.

Well, Sarah?

Hey, if number one is the steal, grab it and run since the consensus here (and I agree) is that it looks more expensive in every way.

But tell us, tell us which is which! :)

#1 Just by the structure and the way it hangs it looks like better quality...(hope you got it for a steal:) , but from the photo it looks like a nice splurge.

I also like #1 the best -- the fabric and stitching looks nicer to me. I like how you have styled the blazer :)

Without looking at anyone's response I think the first jacket is the splurge. It looks better hanging on the hanger. The quality looks better when enlarged. They both look like they fit you good, but the first one seems to lay better on you as well. Now, I'm going to go read the posts.

Agree with everyone else - number one (splurge - J crew??) looks like a better fit overall, particularly in the shoulders. I also think it looks like more of a classic piece and worth spending the extra money on.

I'm new here... and loving the website! Thought your pics were great. I too agree that Picture 1 of the blazer gets my vote. The stitching on Pic 2 seemed a bit to obvious and I didn't like that. Love your idea about exchanging buttons for a better/fresher look. I need to do that on some items! Let us know what the Splurge & Steal and also which one you picked!!!

I prefer jacket one.. it seems of better quality, the fabric, the inside, the buttons.. lovely piece!

Wow ladies, thank you for your comments! This was fun. :)
Splurge and steal are relative terms for sure.
So here's the deal.
Jacket #1 is from Express. I'm assuming it's a return to the store from an online purchase because our store doesn't carry the finer jackets like that usually. The red line price was $80 so I have no idea what the original price was, however, with additional sales (not coupons) I got it for $30.
Jacket #2 is from the Gap - full price at $98. I tried it in the store and I liked it. I was afraid they'd sell out here in Austin since it's a lighter weight wool. The wool tweed jacket I want will probably not be sold out considering our current temps.
Anyway. After I got the Gap jacket we went down the road to Express and I found that jacket.
Once I got home I compared the two and hands down liked the Express better. Both in fit and look. The only thing I like better about the Gap jacket is the single vent in the bag, vs. the Express jacket with the double vent.
I plan to wear mine as smart casual - with jeans, boots, and graphic tees.
So thanks again for participating in my thread and for our overwhelming support for my favorite jacket. :D

Thats so awesome Sarah. A great blazer at a great price :-) I love the first one on you too. Looks lovely.

Wow, I'm surprised! I hadn't commented but felt that #1 was more expensive looking.

Chiming in late to say I did think #2 was going to have the higher price, but #1 was a a better fit. So glad you scored on that one!

wow!!!! What a great deal!!!! Never thought jacket one was the cheappest!!

Definitely a great buy Sarah! You did good, girl.

great price great blazer, bet you are chuffed with that purchase!

I'm ecstatic, actually. :) I love the look of jeans and jackets and navy is one of my best colors. I love the look for casual Friday or weekends. :)

I knew the second one was from Gap! ;) Congrats on your awesome steal!