From fine automobiles to designer handbags, we've covered various companies that let consumers rent expensive objects instead of buying them. The latest to join the herd is New York-based Rent the Runway, which allows women to rent designer dresses.
Dress-seeking fashionistas browse RTR's collection and schedule a delivery date (next-day delivery is available, as well as same-day in New York City). RTR then sends them the dress, including a second, back-up size to make sure the fit is as good as the design. Rental costs are around 10% of a garment's retail price, and range from USD 50–200. Customers can rent for four or eight days, after which they return the dress in the USPS return envelope that RTR provides. The extra size—which RTR provides at no extra cost—must be returned unworn.
Further proof that its founders have thought through the concept from a consumer's point of view, RTR also lets members rent a second style for just USD 25. Which gives them a back-up option for last-minute decisions, or a second dress to wear at an elaborate wedding or a multi-day event. Brands currently on offer include Just Cavalli, Helmut Lang, Proenza Schouler and Hervé Leger.
Appealing both to consumers who are cutting back for economic reasons, and to those who value experiences over ownership (dubbed transumers by our sister-site trendwatching.com), there's plenty of room for concepts like Rent the Runway to grow, especially if they provide their clients with heightened convenience as well as heightened style. (Related: Free clothes rental for fashionistas — Clothing rental for size-changing dieters — Baby clothes rental service.)
Website: www.renttherunway.com
Contact: feedback@renttherunway.com
Spotted by: Mike Hudack
I'm afraid this is not at all new and has been around for a while in the UK and in Belgium (Antwerp).
As Perry says, this already exists in the UK - http://www.girlmeetsdress.com/
Great idea though.
WearTodayGoneTomorrow.com has been doing this in the US for almost a year! WTGT loans nationally at 5 - 10% retail values, has had amazing reviews from Teen Vogue, People, InStyle, The Today How and many more. Items arrive in 2 - 3 days, and they carry over 125 of the top designers including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Herve Leger, Matthew Williamson and more. They're amazing!
My company One Night Stand has been renting
designer evening dresses since 1983. I also had a business of same name on Madison Ave in NY from
1987 - 1993 - so not such a new idea then!
However, done right, is has certainly kept the wolf from my door for many years.
www.onenightstand.co.uk