Write a realistic scenario
Estimate wears over a defined period. For occasionwear count actual events; for a daily jacket consider seasons. Optimistic estimates can make any purchase look artificially worthwhile.
Include care
Add price and estimated care costs, then divide by wears. The portal calculator uses this formula. With no extras, €80 worn forty times costs €2 per wear, versus €8 for €40 worn five times.
Keep other criteria
This does not measure environmental impact or quality. Check comfort, apparent construction, repairability and available budget. A low cost per wear does not justify unaffordable spending.
Test two scenarios
An €80 piece with €20 total care costs €5 per use at 20 uses, or €2 at 50. These are assumptions, not predicted lifetime. Include necessary alterations and avoid treating uncertain resale as guaranteed savings.
Separate total and per-use care
Care means a total, not cost per wash. Illustrative example: €50, ten wears and ten €2 care sessions gives (50 + 20) ÷ 10 = €7. Entering only €2 would give €5.20 and underestimate this scenario.
| Price | Wears | Total care | Cost per wear |
|---|---|---|---|
| €80 | 40 | €0 | €2 |
| €40 | 5 | €0 | €8 |
| €100 | 50 | €25 | €2.50 |
Your checklist
- Define a period
- Estimate honest use
- Include expected care
Frequently asked questions
Is an expensive piece always worthwhile?
No. Actual use and costs determine the result; rarely worn clothing may remain expensive per wear.
Does low cost per use prove low impact?
No. It does not measure production, transport or end of life.
Sources & references
This method is an editorial suggestion to adapt to your taste, budget and everyday life. It is not based on product tests or brand rankings.
