How to Use the Cost Per Wear Calculator
Cost Per Wear (CPW) is the key metric for evaluating clothing value. A high-priced item worn frequently can have a lower CPW than a cheap item barely worn. This tool makes the comparison instant.
The Cost Per Wear Formula
CPW = Purchase Price ÷ Total Wears. An $80 shirt worn 100 times has a CPW of $0.80 — excellent. A $30 shirt worn only 3 times has a CPW of $10 — poor value despite the low price.
Using CPW Before You Shop
Before buying, ask: 'How many times will I actually wear this?' Calculate the CPW. Under $1 per wear signals a rational purchase. Over $5 per wear is a red flag for impulse buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Under $1 per wear is considered excellent value. Even expensive items can score well if worn frequently — a $200 jacket worn 300 times ($0.67/wear) beats a $30 shirt worn twice ($15/wear).
Estimate average weekly wears × expected weeks of use. 2 wears/week × 104 weeks (2 years) = about 200 total wears.
It forces you to think about realistic usage before buying. A high CPW prediction is a signal to reconsider. This simple number can save you from accumulating unworn clothes.