Sticker price lies. A $98 legging returned twice costs you time, shipping, and often the planet — while brands absorb reverse logistics at 15–25% of item value. Made-to-measure at $128 sounds premium until you account for the return tax you've already paid on leggings that almost fit.
Return economics
NRF 2024: US retailers ~16.9% return rate overall; online fashion higher (~20–30%).
Fit/size top reason — 28% per 2024 retailer surveys; CoreSight up to 53%.
Bracketing math
Order S, M, L 'just in case' — industry calls this bracketing.
Two of three return — double reverse logistics, restocking, potential landfill per What Happens to Returns.
Three $98 pairs = $294 outlay before refund latency — emotional cost unpriced.
Made-to-measure breakeven
One $128 custom pair that fits first wear vs three failed $98 experiments.
Knot free refit reduces risk of paying twice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Always cheaper long-run?
If first alpha purchase fits, ready-to-wear wins. Custom wins after repeated failures.
Hidden custom costs?
Lead time (Fall 2026 for Knot pre-order) — time has value.
Return policies changing?
Many brands adding return fees in 2024 — bracketing cost rising.
Related Reading
Why Clothing Sizes Don't Exist
A calm explainer on inconsistency and why fit feels random.
How to Measure Your Body (Most Guides Are Wrong)
Practical, non-fussy steps to get repeatable measurements at home.
Made-to-Measure vs Bespoke vs Custom
Clear differences, when each makes sense, and why cost varies.