The concept of a ‘cost per wear’ item is a favourite for shopaholics like myself. If you break down exactly how many times you’re going to wear this piece and then divide the price by this number, you’ll end up with its ‘true’ cost. In other words, it’s a good way to justify buying expensive things.
But apart from being a gateway drug into a shopping addiction, looking at purchases this way can be a seriously effective way of managing what you’re buying — and spending. High value items — that is, expensive but you’re going to wear them a lot — are worth their higher price due to the frequency of which you’ll wear them. Lower value items — expensive and you’re not going to wear them often — might be beautiful and lust worthy, but in the end they don’t make great investments. Depending on what you’re thinking of buying, it’s important to consider both.
And while one-off, wishlist-type pieces are a good idea every now and again, the majority of our purchases don’t fall into this category. So how do you work out if you should buy it? We’ve pulled together five cool weather investment items and broken down their cost per wear, proving that yes, it is possible to spend bigger and get a good return, too.
M.I.H Jeans ‘Ryley’ coat, $502; matchesfashion.com
This M.I.H coat can be worn with just about every winter outfit, from your work shirt and trousers to on the weekend with jeans.
Cost: $502
Times of wear: 35+
Cost per wear price: $14
Scanlan Theodore ‘Scuba’ pant, $450; scanlantheodore.com
A classic suit pant can do wonders for a capsule wardrobe, and this Scanlan Theodore pair is just that. Fitted and tailored, these pants will last years and prove their value time and time again. Pair with an oversized blazer, white T-shirt and embellished slides for an elevated take on casual suit dressing.
Cost: $450
Times of wear: 50+
Cost per wear price: $9
Tibi oversized faux fur jacket; $944; netaporter.com
A faux fur jacket is key this season, and this cream Tibi version is just a little bit different. Oversized and belted, the shape is universally flattering and will ensure your outfit is the best in the room, every time.
Cost: $944
Times of wear: 35+
Cost per wear price: $26
Ganni pinstriped blazer, $410; netaporter.com
A good quality work blazer is key to any professional woman’s life. This Ganni one can be dressed down or up depending on how you layer it. Paired with a turtleneck and cropped jeans? Done. Dressed up with suit pants and loafers? So versatile!
Cost: $410
Times of wear: 20
Cost per wear price: $20
Camilla and Marc ‘Turner’ turtleneck, $380; camillaandmarc.com
A great knit is the centre of any good winter outfit, so stocking up on a good quality one is a necessary winter investment. This bell sleeved navy knit from Camilla and Marc ticks all the boxes and can be styled up or down depending on the occasion. A serious investment piece!
Cost: $380
Times of wear: 40+
Cost per wear price: $9.50
This story originally appeared on InStyle Australia
