Rent the Runway is an online service that allows you to rent designer dresses, clothing, and accessories for a fraction of their retail price. The company was founded in 2009 and has since become a popular option for women looking for designer fashion for special occasions or everyday wear.
To use Rent the Runway, you simply browse their website, select the items you want to rent, choose the rental period (usually 4 or 8 days), and provide your shipping and payment information. The items are then shipped to you and you can wear them for your event or daily wear. Once you’re done, you simply return the items in the prepaid packaging provided by Rent the Runway.
Rent the Runway offers a variety of clothing options, including dresses, tops, skirts, pants, and even outerwear. They also offer accessories such as jewelry, handbags, and sunglasses. The service is available in the United States and they offer both one-time rentals and monthly subscription plans.Rent the Runway is a fashion rental service that allows users to rent designer dresses, clothing, and accessories for a fraction of the retail price. Customers can choose from a wide selection of clothing and accessories from over 600 designers, including high-end fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace. The service allows customers to rent items for a set period of time and then return them for a small fee. This can be a great option for those looking to save money on high-end fashion or for those who want to try out a new look for a special occasion without committing to a purchase. Rent the Runway also offers a membership program that provides additional benefits, such as free shipping, discounts, and early access to new arrivals.
Overview
Rent the Runway is a fashion rental service that was founded in 2009 by Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Fleiss. The service allows customers to rent designer dresses, clothing, and accessories for a fraction of the retail price. Rent the Runway operates both online and in retail stores, with locations in major cities across the United States.
The service offers a wide selection of clothing and accessories from over 600 designers, including high-end fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Customers can browse the selection online or in-store, choose the items they want to rent, and then select a rental period. Rental periods can range from 4 to 8 days, with the option to extend for an additional fee.
Once the rental period is over, customers simply return the items to Rent the Runway via a pre-paid shipping label or by dropping them off at a physical location. The service takes care of cleaning and maintaining the items between rentals.
Rent the Runway also offers a membership program called RTR Unlimited, which allows customers to rent up to four items at a time for a flat monthly fee. Members also receive free shipping, discounts on purchases, and early access to new arrivals.
Overall, Rent the Runway is a popular option for those looking to save money on high-end fashion or for those who want to try out a new look for a special occasion without committing to a purchase.
Rent the Runway is a fashion rental service that was founded in 2009. The company’s mission is to provide affordable access to high-end fashion by allowing customers to rent clothing and accessories from over 600 designers. Rent the Runway offers a wide variety of items, including dresses, tops, skirts, pants, jackets, coats, and accessories like jewelry and handbags.
Customers can browse Rent the Runway’s website and select items to rent for a specific period of time, ranging from four to eight days. The rental fee includes shipping and cleaning, so customers don’t have to worry about the hassle of cleaning the items before returning them.
In addition to one-time rentals, Rent the Runway also offers a subscription service called RTR Unlimited, which allows customers to rent an unlimited number of items for a monthly fee. RTR Unlimited members can keep items for as long as they want and swap them out for new items at any time.
Rent the Runway has grown in popularity in recent years and has been featured in numerous media outlets. The company has also expanded its offerings to include a line of exclusive clothing and accessories under its own brand name. Overall, Rent the Runway provides a unique and affordable way for fashion-conscious individuals to access high-end fashion without breaking the bank.
Highlights
- Wide selection of high-end fashion: Rent the Runway offers access to over 600 designers, including some of the world’s top fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace. This allows customers to access a wide variety of clothing and accessories that they might not otherwise be able to afford.
- Affordable pricing: Rent the Runway’s rental fees are typically a fraction of the retail cost of the items being rented. This makes high-end fashion more accessible to a wider range of customers.
- Convenience: Rent the Runway makes it easy for customers to rent items online and have them shipped directly to their door. The rental fee includes shipping and cleaning, so customers don’t have to worry about these details themselves.
- Flexibility: Rent the Runway offers a range of rental periods, from four to eight days, and also offers a subscription service (RTR Unlimited) that allows customers to rent an unlimited number of items for a monthly fee. This gives customers the flexibility to rent items for as long or as short a period as they want.
- Sustainability: By renting items instead of buying them, customers can help reduce the environmental impact of fashion consumption. Rent the Runway also has a sustainability program in place to reduce its own environmental footprint.
- Exclusive brand offerings: Rent the Runway has expanded its offerings to include a line of exclusive clothing and accessories under its own brand name. These items are designed specifically for the rental market and are not available for purchase elsewhere.
How Does Rent the Runway Work?
Browse the selection: Customers can browse Rent the Runway’s website or mobile app to view the selection of clothing and accessories available for rent. The selection includes items from over 600 designers, including high-end fashion brands.
Choose the item and rental period: Customers can select the item they want to rent and choose a rental period, which ranges from four to eight days.
Rent and receive the item: After completing the rental process, Rent the Runway ships the item directly to the customer. The rental fee includes shipping and cleaning, so customers don’t have to worry about these details themselves.
Wear and return the item: Once the rental period is over, customers simply return the item using the prepaid shipping label provided by Rent the Runway. The item should be returned in the same condition it was received.
Repeat: Customers can continue to rent items as often as they like, and can even sign up for Rent the Runway’s subscription service (RTR Unlimited) to rent an unlimited number of items for a monthly fee.
Rent the Runway also offers a number of additional services and features, such as the ability to schedule rental start dates in advance, free backup sizes for items, and the option to purchase items that customers have rented and loved. Overall, Rent the Runway makes it easy and convenient for customers to access high-end fashion without the commitment of purchasing expensive items.
Is Rent the Runway Worth It?
Whether or not Rent the Runway is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Cost: Rent the Runway’s rental fees are generally much lower than the retail cost of the items being rented, which can make it an affordable option for accessing high-end fashion. However, the cost of renting multiple items over time can add up, so it’s important to consider how much you’re willing to spend on fashion.
Frequency of use: If you have a special event or occasion coming up and want to wear a high-end outfit without the commitment of purchasing an expensive item, Rent the Runway can be a great option. Similarly, if you want to try out new styles and trends without making a long-term commitment, Rent the Runway can be a good choice. However, if you’re looking for everyday clothing items, Rent the Runway may not be the most practical option.
Selection: Rent the Runway offers access to a wide selection of designers and styles, which can be a major draw for fashion-conscious individuals. However, if you have specific preferences or are looking for items that are outside of the typical Rent the Runway selection, you may not find what you’re looking for.
Convenience: Rent the Runway’s online platform and shipping service make it easy and convenient to rent items from the comfort of your own home. However, if you prefer to try on clothing in person or have immediate access to items, Rent the Runway may not be the most convenient option.
Overall, Rent the Runway can be a great option for accessing high-end fashion in a convenient and affordable way. However, it’s important to weigh the cost, frequency of use, selection, and convenience factors to determine whether or not it’s worth it for you.
Rent the Runway Pros
- Access to high-end fashion: Rent the Runway offers access to a wide variety of clothing and accessories from over 600 designers, including high-end fashion brands that may be too expensive to purchase outright. This allows customers to try out new styles and trends without breaking the bank.
- Affordability: Rent the Runway’s rental fees are typically a fraction of the retail cost of the items being rented, which makes high-end fashion more accessible to a wider range of customers.
- Convenience: Rent the Runway’s online platform and shipping service make it easy and convenient to rent items from the comfort of your own home. Customers can browse the selection, choose rental periods, and have items shipped directly to their door.
- Flexibility: Rent the Runway offers a range of rental periods, from four to eight days, and also offers a subscription service (RTR Unlimited) that allows customers to rent an unlimited number of items for a monthly fee. This gives customers the flexibility to rent items for as long or as short a period as they want.
- Sustainability: By renting items instead of buying them, customers can help reduce the environmental impact of fashion consumption. Rent the Runway also has a sustainability program in place to reduce its own environmental footprint.
- Exclusive brand offerings: Rent the Runway has expanded its offerings to include a line of exclusive clothing and accessories under its own brand name. These items are designed specifically for the rental market and are not available for purchase elsewhere.
Extensive List of Designers
Rent the Runway offers clothing and accessories from over 600 designers, so it’s impossible to provide an exhaustive list. However, here are some examples of designers whose items are available for rent on Rent the Runway:
- Alexander McQueen
- Balenciaga
- Burberry
- Chanel
- Christian Dior
- Dolce & Gabbana
- Fendi
- Givenchy
- Gucci
- Jimmy Choo
- Kate Spade
- Marc Jacobs
- Marni
- Missoni
- Oscar de la Renta
- Prada
- Saint Laurent
- Stella McCartney
- Tory Burch
- Valentino
This is just a small sampling of the designers available on Rent the Runway. The company also offers clothing and accessories from emerging designers, as well as its own exclusive line of clothing and accessories.
Convenience
One of the key benefits of using Rent the Runway is its convenience. Here are some ways in which Rent the Runway makes the process of renting clothing and accessories easy and convenient:
- Online platform: Rent the Runway’s website and mobile app allow customers to browse the selection of clothing and accessories available for rent, select items to rent, and manage their rental activity.
- Shipping: Rent the Runway ships items directly to customers, so they don’t have to worry about going to a physical store to try on or pick up items. Shipping is included in the rental fee.
- Cleaning: Rent the Runway handles the cleaning of items after they are returned by customers, so customers don’t have to worry about cleaning or maintaining the items themselves.
- Rental periods: Rent the Runway offers a range of rental periods, from four to eight days, giving customers the flexibility to rent items for as long or as short a period as they want.
- RTR Unlimited: Rent the Runway’s subscription service, RTR Unlimited, allows customers to rent an unlimited number of items for a monthly fee, giving them access to a constantly changing wardrobe without having to make individual rental decisions.
Overall, Rent the Runway’s convenience factor makes it an attractive option for busy individuals who want access to high-end fashion without the hassle of traditional shopping or the commitment of purchasing expensive items.
Affordability
- Rental fees: Rent the Runway’s rental fees are generally much lower than the retail cost of the items being rented. This allows customers to access high-end fashion without paying the full price of ownership.
- RTR Update: Rent the Runway offers a subscription service called RTR Update, which allows customers to rent four items per month for a flat fee. This can be a more affordable option for individuals who want a rotating wardrobe without committing to the higher monthly fees of RTR Unlimited.
- Discounts and promotions: Rent the Runway frequently offers discounts and promotions on its rental fees, making it even more affordable to rent high-end fashion.
- Membership program: Rent the Runway’s membership program, RTR Pro, offers discounts and benefits to members, such as free shipping and discounted rental fees.
- Sustainable fashion: Renting clothing instead of buying new items can be a more sustainable option, both environmentally and financially. By renting items from Rent the Runway, customers can reduce their fashion consumption while still accessing high-end fashion.
Overall, Rent the Runway’s affordability factor makes it an attractive option for fashion-conscious individuals who want to access high-end fashion without breaking the bank.
Self-Discovery
- Trying new styles and trends: Rent the Runway allows customers to try out new styles and trends without committing to purchasing expensive items. This can be a great way to explore new fashion options and find out what styles and looks work best for you.
- Stepping out of your comfort zone: Rent the Runway’s wide selection of clothing and accessories can encourage customers to try styles and looks that they might not have considered before. This can help you step out of your comfort zone and discover new aspects of your personal style.
- Building confidence: Wearing high-end fashion can boost confidence and make you feel good about yourself. By renting items from Rent the Runway, you can access high-end fashion that might be out of your price range, which can help you feel more confident and stylish.
- Sustainable fashion: Renting clothing instead of buying new items can contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry. By choosing Rent the Runway, you can feel good about making a more eco-friendly fashion choice while also discovering your personal style.
Overall, Rent the Runway can offer a fun and convenient way to explore fashion and discover new aspects of your personal style. By trying out new styles and trends, stepping out of your comfort zone, and building confidence, you can use Rent the Runway as a tool for self-discovery.
The Mood Boost
- Access to high-end fashion: Rent the Runway offers access to a wide variety of clothing and accessories from over 600 designers, including high-end fashion brands that might be too expensive to purchase outright. By renting items from Rent the Runway, you can feel like you’re wearing high-end fashion without breaking the bank.
- Trying new styles and trends: Rent the Runway allows customers to try out new styles and trends without committing to purchasing expensive items. This can be a fun and exciting way to experiment with fashion and boost your mood.
- Boosting confidence: Wearing high-end fashion can boost confidence and make you feel good about yourself. By renting items from Rent the Runway, you can access high-end fashion that might be out of your price range, which can help you feel more confident and stylish.
- Creating excitement: Rent the Runway’s rotating selection of clothing and accessories can create excitement and anticipation for new items to try. This can be a fun way to add some excitement and variety to your wardrobe.
Overall, Rent the Runway can offer a mood boost by providing access to high-end fashion, allowing you to try out new styles and trends, boosting confidence, and creating excitement for new items.
Rent the Runway Cons
- Limited selection: While Rent the Runway offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories, the selection may not be as extensive as what you would find in a physical store. Additionally, some items may not be available in certain sizes or colors.
- Fit issues: Because Rent the Runway’s clothing and accessories are not available to try on before renting, there is a risk that items may not fit properly. While Rent the Runway offers free backup sizes, it can still be frustrating to receive an item that doesn’t fit well.
- Rental fees: While Rent the Runway’s rental fees are generally much lower than the retail cost of the items being rented, the cost can still add up over time, especially if you are renting frequently or using the subscription service.
- Cleaning issues: While Rent the Runway handles the cleaning of items after they are returned, there is a risk that items may not be cleaned properly or may be damaged during the cleaning process.
- Sustainability concerns: While renting clothing can be more sustainable than purchasing new items, there are still environmental concerns associated with the shipping and transportation of rental items.
- Shipping delays: While Rent the Runway offers shipping directly to customers, there is a risk of shipping delays or lost items, which can be frustrating for customers who are relying on the rental for a specific event or occasion.
Overall, Rent the Runway can be a great option for accessing high-end fashion in a convenient and affordable way, but it’s important to weigh the potential cons against the benefits to determine whether it’s the right choice for you.
Missing Measurements
One potential con of using Rent the Runway is that there is a risk of missing measurements. While Rent the Runway provides a sizing chart and suggests sizes based on a customer’s measurements, it is still possible for items to not fit properly. This can be frustrating for customers, especially if they are renting an item for a specific event or occasion.
To help mitigate this issue, Rent the Runway offers free backup sizes for items, which allows customers to order an additional size to ensure a better fit. Additionally, Rent the Runway has a customer service team available to help with sizing questions and concerns. However, it’s important to keep in mind that even with backup sizes and customer support, there is still a risk that items may not fit perfectly
Limited Stock
Another potential con of using Rent the Runway is that the selection of items may be limited, particularly during high-demand periods or for specific sizes or colors. This can be frustrating for customers who are looking for a specific item or style, or who need an item for a specific event or occasion.
To help mitigate this issue, Rent the Runway offers the ability to schedule rental start dates in advance, which can help ensure that an item is available when it’s needed. Additionally, Rent the Runway offers a feature called “hearts,” which allows customers to “favorite” items they are interested in, and receive notifications if the item becomes available in their size or for their desired rental period.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there is still a risk that a desired item may not be available for rent, particularly during high-demand periods or for particularly popular styles or designers.
Very High Resale Prices
Another potential con of using Rent the Runway is that some items may have very high resale prices, which can be frustrating for customers who fall in love with an item and would like to purchase it. Because Rent the Runway offers access to high-end fashion at a more affordable rental price, some customers may be disappointed to find that the resale price for a particular item is much higher than what they would like to pay.
To help mitigate this issue, Rent the Runway has introduced a feature called “RTR Edit,” which allows customers to purchase selected items from Rent the Runway’s exclusive clothing and accessories line. This can be a more affordable option for customers who fall in love with a particular Rent the Runway item and would like to purchase it.
Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that Rent the Runway’s rental service is designed to provide access to high-end fashion without the commitment of purchasing expensive items. While it can be frustrating to find that a particular item has a high resale price, the rental service is still a more affordable option for accessing high-end fashion than purchasing items outright.
1.Havana Dress
Brown floral linen blend (53% Linen, 47% Viscose). A-line. Short sleeves. V-neck. Pull on. 50″ from shoulder to hemline. Imported.This button-down floral dress by FAHERTY BRAND is the perfect transitional piece for your wardrobe. Pair with boots or sandals to flex between seasons.Sized: XS-XL
2.Silver Gown
Silver satin (100% Viscose). Column. Sleeveless. Scoop neck. Pull on. See size and fit notes for length measurements. Imported.This ruched lamé dress by Atlein is like wearing liquid metal to your next event.Sized: 34-42, French sizing. One length available. Regular measures 58” from shoulder to hemline (recommended for heights 5’2”-5’6”).
3.Pleated Gown
Black jersey (100% Polyester). Column. Sleeveless. Cold shoulder. Pull on. See size and fit notes for length measurements. Imported.This pleated LBD by Atlein is the epitome of chic featuring an elegant asymmetrical neckline and eye-catching waist cutout.Sized: 34-42, French sizing. One length available. Regular measures 58” from shoulder to hemline (recommended for heights 5’2”-5’6”).
4.Romi Metallic Gown
Blue lame (95% polyester, 5% spandex). A-line. Sleeveless. V-neck. Back zipper closure. See size and fit notes for length measurements. Imported.We are getting major dancing queen vibes from this metallic plunge neck gown by Bronx and Banco.Sized: XS-XL. One length available. Regular measures 58” from shoulder to hemline (recommended for heights 5’2”-5’6”).
5.Ola Maxi Dress
Purple satin (80% Nylon, 20% Elastane). Slip. Sleeveless. Strapless. Pull on. 47″ from bust to hemline. Imported.Style this stunning knotted accent dress by BAOBAB with your favorite strappy heels to steal the show at your next event.Sized: XS-X
Dresses: Rent the Runway offers a large selection of dresses, including cocktail dresses, formal dresses, and evening gowns. The selection includes options from a wide variety of designers and in a range of styles and sizes.
Clothing: In addition to dresses, Rent the Runway offers a selection of tops, skirts, pants, jackets, and other clothing items. This includes casual and formal options from a variety of designers.
Accessories: Rent the Runway also offers a selection of accessories, including jewelry, handbags, and sunglasses. These items can be rented to add the finishing touch to an outfit.
Athleisure: Rent the Runway offers a selection of athleisure clothing, including leggings, sports bras, and athletic tops. These items are designed to be both stylish and functional for workouts and active lifestyles.
Maternity: Rent the Runway offers a selection of maternity clothing, including dresses, tops, and pants. These items are designed to be comfortable and stylish for pregnant women.
Overall, Rent the Runway offers a wide variety of high-end fashion options for rent, allowing customers to access designer clothing and accessories without the commitment of purchasing expensive items.
Promotions & Discounts
First-time customer discount: Rent the Runway often offers a discount for first-time customers who sign up for the service.
Referral program: Rent the Runway has a referral program that rewards customers with a discount on their next rental for referring friends to the service.
Membership program discounts: Rent the Runway’s membership program, RTR Pro, offers discounts on rental fees and free shipping for members.
Seasonal promotions: Rent the Runway often offers promotions and discounts around holidays or during certain seasons, such as discounts on summer dresses or holiday party attire.
Sales: Rent the Runway occasionally offers sales on its rental items, allowing customers to rent items at a discounted rate.
It’s important to note that promotions and discounts may vary over time and may be subject to certain restrictions or limitations. Customers should always read the terms and conditions of any promotions or discounts before taking advantage of them.
Is Renttherunway Legit?
Yes, Rent the Runway is a legitimate company that has been in business since 2009. The company has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in the World and being recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Most Promising Companies.
Rent the Runway has also been reviewed by numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, Vogue, and Refinery29, among others. Additionally, the company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Overall, Rent the Runway is a reputable and established company that has become a popular option for accessing high-end fashion in a more affordable and convenient way.
Where to Buy
Rent the Runway is primarily a rental service, so customers do not purchase the items they rent. However, Rent the Runway does offer the option to purchase select items from its exclusive clothing and accessories line, called RTR Edit. These items can be purchased through Rent the Runway’s website or mobile app.
Additionally, some designers and brands whose items are available for rent on Rent the Runway may also sell their items through their own websites or through other retailers. However, the selection and availability of these items may vary. If you are interested in purchasing a specific item that is available for rent on Rent the Runway, it’s a good idea to check the designer’s website or other retailers to see if the item is available for purchase.
Overall, Rent the Runway is primarily a rental service and does not sell the items it offers for rent. However, the company does offer the option to purchase select items from its exclusive clothing and accessories line, and some designers and brands whose items are available for rent may sell their items through other channels
Customer Support
Rent the Runway has a dedicated customer support team that is available to help customers with any questions or concerns they may have. Here are some ways to contact Rent the Runway’s customer support team:
- Email: Customers can email Rent the Runway’s customer support team at [email protected]. This is a good option for non-urgent questions or concerns.
- Phone: Rent the Runway’s customer support team can be reached by phone at 1-800-509-0842. The phone line is open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm Eastern time. This is a good option for more urgent or time-sensitive questions or concerns.
- Live chat: Rent the Runway offers a live chat feature on its website and mobile app. This is a good option for quick questions or concerns.
- Social media: Rent the Runway’s customer support team can be contacted through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook.
Rent the Runway’s customer support team is known for being responsive and helpful, and they are available to assist with a wide range of issues, including sizing questions, rental inquiries, and returns or exchanges.
Conclusion
Rent the Runway is a popular clothing and accessories rental service that offers access to high-end fashion at an affordable price. The service is convenient and easy to use, allowing customers to rent items for a specific occasion or on a recurring basis through the subscription service, RTR Unlimited.
While there are some potential drawbacks to using Rent the Runway, such as limited selection or fit issues, the service offers many benefits, including access to high-end fashion, convenience, affordability, and the opportunity to try new styles and trends.
Overall, Rent the Runway is a reputable and established company that has become a popular option for accessing high-end fashion in a more affordable and convenient way. Whether you’re looking for a dress for a special occasion or a new wardrobe staple, Rent the Runway offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories for rent, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add some variety to their wardrobe or experiment with new styles.
FAQ
How does Rent the Runway work?
Rent the Runway is a clothing and accessories rental service. Customers can browse the company’s inventory of designer items, select the items they want to rent, and choose a rental period. The items are shipped to the customer, who can wear them and then return them using a pre-paid shipping label provided by Rent the Runway.
What types of items can I rent from Rent the Runway?
Rent the Runway offers a wide selection of clothing and accessories for rent, including dresses, tops, pants, skirts, jackets, handbags, and jewelry. The company’s inventory includes items from over 700 designer brands.
How long can I rent an item for?
Rent the Runway offers rental periods ranging from four to eight days, depending on the item and the customer’s preferences.
What is the Fit Guarantee?
The Fit Guarantee is a policy offered by Rent the Runway that ensures that rental items fit properly. If an item doesn’t fit properly, the company will send a replacement item in the same style and size for free.
How much does it cost to rent from Rent the Runway?
Rental prices vary depending on the item being rented and the rental period selected. Prices typically range from $30 to $300 or more for one-time rentals, and subscription-based plans start at $89 per month.
What is the return policy?
Rent the Runway’s return policy allows customers to return rental items up to one day after the end of their rental period, with the exception of special occasion items, which must be returned by the end of the rental period. Late fees may apply for items returned after the rental period has ended.
Can I purchase items from Rent the Runway?
Rent the Runway does offer a selection of items for purchase, typically gently-used or returned items that are no longer available for rental. Customers can purchase these items at a discounted price compared to the original retail price.
Is Rent the Runway a sustainable company?
Yes, Rent the Runway has a sustainability-focused business model that promotes the reuse of clothing and accessories. The company’s rental service reduces the environmental impact of the fashion industry by extending the life of clothing items and reducing the amount of waste generated by fast fashion.
