If you’ve been here awhile, you know I talk about Cost Per Wear (CPW) a lot. Like a lot a CPW is the value of an item directly related to how much you use it. There’s even a very official math formula to calculate your cost per wear for an item. The Purchase Price + Maintenance Cost / by total wears = CPW.
Let’s take an example from my life
Recently, I had my eye on the MOST amazing sandals for months but they were such investment! I did my due diligence, searching high and low for a dupe, but nothing compared. So, I took the plunge and when I put them, they were perfect! They literally go with everything, are super comfortable, and incredibly flattering. I’ve probably worn them every day I haven’t been in flip flops. Let’s figure out my Cost Per Wear. 250 / 75 = $3.33 CPW.
Around the same time, I bought a $30 pair of sandals too because I had no black sandals. WELL, they aren’t that comfortable, are pretty slippery to walk in, and I’ve only worn them 3 or 4 times. 30 / 4 = $7.50 CPW.
Convinced yet? Or is this some voodoo new math to justify shopping? Math doesn’t lie, friends. And by the end of the season (October here is LA) I will have worn them at least 30 more times bring my cost per wear to $2.38!!
My advice? Consider which items would be worth it based on your CPW. Make a list of the items you reach for and wear most. Is it yoga pants? Jeans? A nice handbag? Heels? Everyone will have a different answer based on their life. If you’re someone who loves getting new tops or dresses multiple times a year then those aren’t good areas for a CPW investment. Hope this helps!! If you already practice this, what is the last CPW item you bought? Questions? I’m always here!
Happy Shopping!
Xoxo, Jess
Updated 1/1/24 These sandals are no longer available but can be found on poshmark by searching “Tamara Mellon” Flatline sandals.
