Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-11

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

It is better to buy just a few expensive clothes, rather than lots of cheaper clothes.

Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 9.0)

Whether to invest in a smaller wardrobe of high-end garments or opt for a larger collection of inexpensive clothing is a subject of ongoing debate. While purchasing cheaper clothes offers variety and accessibility, I strongly agree that buying a select few high-quality, expensive garments is a far superior approach due to durability, environmental sustainability, and long-term financial efficiency.

The primary advantage of purchasing higher-priced clothing lies in superior craftsmanship and longevity. Premium brands typically use higher-grade textiles, stronger stitching, and better manufacturing processes, allowing their products to withstand repeated washing and wear without losing shape, color, or texture. In contrast, mass-market budget apparel—often referred to as "fast fashion"—tends to degrade rapidly after a few cycles in a washing machine. Consequently, a well-made coat or pair of boots that costs $300 may easily last five to ten years, whereas a $40 equivalent might need replacement within a single season. Over time, the cost-per-wear of expensive, durable items proves significantly lower, making them a wiser financial choice.

Furthermore, prioritizing fewer, higher-quality clothes aligns with environmental responsibility. The fast fashion industry is one of the world's largest polluters, contributing massively to carbon emissions, microplastic pollution, and excessive textile waste in landfills. Cheap clothing encourages a throwaway culture where consumers view garments as disposable items to be worn once or twice before discarded. By intentionally curbing consumption and investing in a minimalist "capsule wardrobe"—a curated collection of versatile, high-quality staples—consumers actively reduce their personal environmental footprint and support ethical manufacturing standards.

Admittedly, purchasing inexpensive clothes allows individuals, particularly those on a tight budget or young adults, to keep up with fast-changing fashion trends without substantial upfront investment. However, this advantage is largely superficial and transient. Trends fade quickly, leaving consumers with piles of outdated, poor-quality items that hold no resale or long-term functional value.

In conclusion, while cheaper clothing provides short-term variety and affordability, investing in a smaller quantity of expensive, premium garments is fundamentally better. Quality clothing offers superior durability, economic value over time, and a substantially reduced environmental impact.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding durability, financial efficiency, and environmental impact are well-developed and supported with logical reasoning and relevant examples, such as the comparison between a $300 coat and a $40 alternative. The counter-argument is also acknowledged and effectively refuted, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the task. The ideas are extended and relevant, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using effective cohesive devices such as 'The primary advantage,' 'Furthermore,' and 'Admittedly.' The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage; the flow of the argument is natural and easy to follow throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. The use of terms such as 'high-end garments,' 'superior craftsmanship,' 'cost-per-wear,' and 'minimalist capsule wardrobe' shows a high level of lexical control and precision. The collocations are natural, and there are no errors in word choice or spelling. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contributes significantly to the persuasive tone of the essay, reflecting a high degree of flexibility and stylistic awareness.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional sentences, participial phrases, and varied sentence lengths. The control over punctuation and syntax is excellent, with no noticeable errors. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the complex structures are used with full flexibility. The writing is highly accurate, and the sophisticated sentence construction enhances the overall readability and impact of your arguments.

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