What Is Cost Per Wear? Formula, Examples and Calculator
Cost per wear divides the net cost of an item by the number of times it has been worn. It is useful for understanding use—not for reducing every clothing decision to a number.
The basic formula
For a simple estimate, divide purchase price by total wears. A more complete calculation is:
Use care costs that are attributable to the item. If you cannot estimate them reliably, leave them out and label the result as a simple cost-per-wear figure.
Two realistic comparisons
A €25 top worn twice has a simple cost per wear of €12.50. A €180 pair of boots worn 200 times has a simple cost per wear of €0.90. The higher purchase price did not create the higher usage cost.
These examples are arithmetic illustrations, not claims about typical wardrobes or any particular product.
Why additional wears matter
Because the fixed purchase cost is spread across more uses, wearing an existing item again usually lowers its cost per wear. Cleaning and repair costs can mean the change is not perfectly linear.
Limitations of the metric
Cost per wear does not establish garment quality, fair labour, environmental impact, comfort, or emotional value. It also depends on accurate wear and cost records. Use it as one decision aid, not a verdict.