First Post: New SC - help me decide

[SJTM]

I recently lost some weight and am trying to rebuild my wardrobe. I am buying down one more size, as I am still dropping lbs. I picked up both these jackets on sale, but only plan to keep one. The first is a BB Madison, center vent, full canvas, 100% wool with a very nice hand. Fit (tried my current size on in the store) is typical Madison. Second SC is JAB Signature Gold, wool/silk blend, half canvas, similar fit to the BB except for the heavier padding in the shoulder.

The BB has a nicer hand, but I need some versatility, and am concerned the strong windowpane is somewhat limiting. Most of my ties are patterned. I assume this cries out for some solid ties. I would appreciate some suggestions on what to wear with it or whether to take it back.

I knw there is never much love for JAB, but I am on a budget and both of these are at the upper limit of what I plan to spend ( BB-$299 / JAB - $253).

Sorry the pics are tilted - not sure how to fix.

 

[mensimageconsultant]

Yes, the Brooks Brothers looks less versatile, but the JAB isn't particularly versatile either. And wool/silk might be less versatile (in terms of comfort) than 100% wool. Anyway, ultimately without seeing fit pics, no one should advise one way or the other.

 

[phoenixrecon]

are you sure that the BB one is fully canvased? im willing to bet its just half.

 

[SJTM]

Thanks for replying to my first post. Thought I might never hear from anyone. I fully concur that fit matters most. As I mentioned, I bought a size down, but preferred the fit of the BB when I tried it on in my size at the store, particularly the higher armholes and the softer shoulder. The hand of the BB fabric was also noticably better. Since posting, having not received any feedback, I made an executive decision and returned the JAB. While both jackets had their limitations on versatility, I decided to embrace the higher style of the BB. The fabric and pattern work particularly well with both deep navy and stone colored gabarbines and allow me to wear both pale as well as bolder colored solid shirts to create some contrast. I am now on the hunt for the right knit tie, (Rubinacci?) that will add a little texture.

Both BB jackets I purchased prominently display swn in tags on the lining under the interior ticket pocket which say "Full Canvas". This is the basis for my assumption.

Thanks again for the replies.

 

[cbbuff]

If you want versatile, get a navy SC. If it's between these two, get the BB.

 

[SJTM]

Thanks. Chose the BB. Have a navy blazer (JAB SG), navy on navy windowpane( BB full canvas) and black/white mini houndstooth ( JAB SG), plus a Jack Victor light brown herringbone tweed with just a bit of blue flecks. Also bought 4 suits - all JAB signature gold - in navy, navy windowpane, charcoal chalkstripe and grey nailhead.. Plus a signature SB Pl tuxedo. Shopped hard on the winter sales and managed to stay just under $2,500 for everything including 4 pair of gabardine pants. Need to stretch a dollar these days with three kids heading for college. Lurking on this board has helped me avoid any major mistakes ( I am not a JAB hater, for those who consider anything JAB a mistake), Still much to learn.