Grade a trend by likely cost per wear
Estimate how many real outfits and occasions the item covers, then divide the price by that number. A cheap novelty can cost more per wear than a useful staple.
Test it against a real day
Use the weather, venue, walking time, care label, and pieces already in your closet. A purchase that works only in a mirror is not finished.
Bottom line
Estimate how many real outfits and occasions the item covers, then divide the price by that number. A cheap novelty can cost more per wear than a useful staple.
Source: FTC textile labeling guide. Reviewed Sep 22, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What does grading actually check?
Fabric, construction, fit, and wear over time, in that order. A stylish item with weak fabric grades low here.
Are trends graded on runway or retail versions?
Retail. The version you can buy, wash, and wear repeatedly is the one that counts.
How often should a graded item be replaced?
When wear changes how it looks: shine, thinning, or lost shape. Good care delays all three.