Rent the Runway Review : The Fashion Rental Service That’s Taking Over

What is Rent the Runway?

Rent the Runway is a fashion rental service that allows customers to rent designer clothing and accessories for a short period rather than purchasing them outright. The company was founded in 2009 by Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Fleiss and has since become a popular choice for people looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective way to access high-end fashion.

Here’s how Rent the Runway typically works:

• Browse and Select: Customers can browse Rent the Runway’s website or mobile app to choose from a wide selection of clothing items, including dresses, tops, pants, handbags, and accessories. They can filter their choices by occasion, size, designer, and more.
• Rental Options: Rent the Runway offers various rental options, including renting a single item for a specific number of days or subscribing to a membership plan that allows for a certain number of rentals each month. Membership plans often include additional perks like free shipping and insurance coverage.
• Try On and Wear: Once customers have made their selections, Rent the Runway ships the items to their chosen address. Customers can try on the clothing and wear it for the designated rental period.
• Return: After wearing the rented items, customers return them to Rent the Runway using the provided pre-paid shipping label and packaging. The company takes care of dry cleaning and maintenance.
• Repeat or Purchase: Customers can rent different items for each occasion or event, or they can choose to purchase items they fall in love with at a discounted price. Rent the Runway often offers items for sale that have been gently used in their rental inventory.

Rent the Runway’s business model is particularly appealing to individuals who want to wear designer clothing for special occasions without the high cost of purchasing, as well as those who value sustainable fashion choices by reducing clothing waste. The company has expanded its offerings over the years to include options for everyday wear, workwear, maternity clothing, and more.

Rent the Runway is an innovative fashion and clothing rental service that allows customers to rent designer clothing, accessories, and apparel for various occasions instead of buying them outright. Founded in 2009 by Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Fleiss, the company has grown to become a prominent player in the fashion industry, offering a wide range of rental options to its customers. Here’s an overview of Rent the Runway:

• Rental Selection: Rent the Runway provides customers with access to a vast selection of clothing and accessories from top designers and brands. Their inventory includes dresses, tops, pants, coats, handbags, jewelry, and more, catering to various occasions, from everyday wear to formal events.
• Online Platform: Rent the Runway primarily operates through its user-friendly website and mobile app, where customers can browse and select items they want to rent. The platform offers advanced search and filtering options to help customers find the perfect outfit.

Rental Options:

• Single Rentals: Customers can rent individual items for specific occasions or events, typically for a duration of four to eight days.
• Subscription Plans: Rent the Runway offers various membership plans that allow customers to rent a certain number of items each month. These plans often come with added benefits like free shipping and insurance coverage.
• Unlimited Membership: An Unlimited membership option allows customers to rent and exchange items as often as they like, with a continuous rotation of items in their closet.
• Try On and Wear: Once customers have made their selections, Rent the Runway ships the chosen items to their designated address. Customers can try on the clothing, wear them for their intended purpose, and enjoy the high-end fashion experience without the long-term commitment.
• Convenience: Rent the Runway takes care of dry cleaning, maintenance, and returns. Customers are provided with pre-paid shipping labels and reusable packaging for hassle-free returns.
• Sustainable Fashion: Renting clothing from Rent the Runway promotes sustainable fashion by reducing the need for fast fashion consumption and contributing to the circular economy.
• Purchase Options: Customers have the option to purchase items they’ve rented at a discounted price if they decide they want to keep them.
• Expanded Offerings: Over the years, Rent the Runway has expanded its offerings to include various categories, such as maternity wear, workwear, and casual everyday attire, making it suitable for a wide range of fashion needs.
• Customization: The company uses data and customer preferences to suggest personalized outfit recommendations, making it easier for customers to find clothing that suits their style and needs.

Rent the Runway has become popular for individuals who want to access designer fashion for special events without the hefty price tag, as well as for those who want to make more sustainable fashion choices by renting rather than buying. The service has also introduced physical stores and drop-off locations in select cities to enhance the customer experience.

Products

Rent the Runway offers a wide range of fashion products and accessories for rental, catering to various occasions and style preferences. While the specific inventory may change over time, here are some of the types of products you can typically find on Rent the Runway:

• Dresses: Rent the Runway offers a diverse selection of dresses, including cocktail dresses, evening gowns, maxi dresses, casual dresses, and more. These dresses come from both well-known designers and emerging brands.
• Tops: You can rent a variety of tops, such as blouses, shirts, sweaters, and T-shirts, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
• Bottoms: Rent the Runway includes a range of bottoms in their inventory, including pants, skirts, and shorts, designed to complement different outfits and styles.
• Outerwear: Customers can find outerwear options like coats, jackets, and blazers for cooler weather or more formal events.
• Accessories: Accessories are an essential part of any outfit. Rent the Runway offers a selection of accessories like handbags, clutches, scarves, belts, and even jewelry to complete your look.
• Shoes: The service also includes shoes of various styles, such as heels, flats, boots, and sandals, to match your outfit.
• Athleisure: Rent the Runway expanded its offerings to include athleisure wear, featuring activewear and workout clothing from popular brands for fitness-conscious customers.
• Maternity Wear: Pregnant customers can rent maternity clothing, including dresses and outfits suitable for various stages of pregnancy.
• Workwear: Rent the Runway provides options for professional workwear, including blazers, suits, and office-appropriate attire.
• Casual and Everyday Wear: In addition to formal attire, you can also find everyday and casual clothing items, such as jeans, casual tops, and more relaxed outfits for everyday wear.
• Designer Brands: Rent the Runway partners with a wide range of designers and brands, both established and emerging, to offer a diverse selection of high-quality fashion options.
• Bridesmaid Dresses: The service includes a selection of bridesmaid dresses for those looking for stylish options for weddings and bridal parties.

Rent the Runway Promotions & Discounts

• 20% off your first rental or get a trial offer on any membership: This is a great way to try out Rent the Runway without any risk. You can use the promo code GETDRESSED to get 20% off your first one-time rental, or you can sign up for a free trial of any membership plan.
• Referral bonus: You can earn $30 for every friend you refer who signs up for a Rent the Runway membership. Your friend will also get $30 off their first order.
• Clearance sale: Rent the Runway often has clearance sales where you can find designer clothes up to 90% off.
• Student discount: Students can get 15% off their first month of membership.
• Military discount: Military members can get 10% off their first month of membership.
• Corporate discount: Many companies offer discounts to their employees on Rent the Runway memberships.
• You can find all of the latest promotions and discounts on the Rent the Runway website or by signing up for their email list.

To enter a promo code on Rent the Runway, follow these steps:

• Add the items you want to rent to your cart.
• Click “Checkout” and continue to your bag.
• Click the promo code box.
• Copy and paste your Rent The Runway promo code into the box.
• Click “Apply” and enjoy your discount!
• Here are some tips for finding the best stuff on Rent the Runway:

Rent the Runway Shipping & Returns

Shipping:

• Rent the Runway offers free shipping on all orders over $50.
• For orders under $50, there is a flat shipping fee of $15.
• Shipping is typically 2-3 business days within the contiguous United States.
• Rent the Runway also offers international shipping to select countries.

Returns:

• You can return any item within 7 days of delivery for a full refund.
• There is a $5.95 restocking fee for each returned item.
• To return an item, you can either mail it back using the prepaid return label or drop it off at a UPS location.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about shipping and returns:

• Rent the Runway offers “live swaps,” which means that you can schedule a pickup for your old items and a delivery of new items at the same time. This is a great way to avoid having to ship your items back yourself.
• If you are returning an item that is damaged or has been worn, you may be charged a cleaning or repair fee.
• Rent the Runway does not accept returns for items that have been marked as final sale.

Is Rent the Runway Legit?

Yes, Rent the Runway is a legitimate and well-established fashion rental service. It was founded in 2009 and has since gained a strong reputation in the fashion industry. The company has been featured in numerous fashion magazines and media outlets and has served millions of customers.

Here are some factors that demonstrate the legitimacy of Rent the Runway:

• Longevity: Rent the Runway has been in operation for many years, which is a sign of its stability and reliability in the fashion rental market.
• Media Recognition: The company has received extensive media coverage and has been featured in publications like Vogue, Forbes, and The New York Times, among others.
• Customer Reviews: You can find a wide range of customer reviews and testimonials online, which provide insights into the experiences of individuals who have used Rent the Runway’s services.
• Partnerships: Rent the Runway has partnerships with numerous well-known fashion designers and brands, further attesting to its legitimacy in the fashion industry.
• Physical Locations: In addition to its online presence, Rent the Runway has physical retail stores and drop-off locations in select cities, providing in-person experiences for customers.
• Customer Service: The company offers customer support and assistance for any inquiries or issues related to rentals.

Is Rent the Runway Safe?

Rent the Runway is generally considered a safe and reputable fashion rental service. However, like any online platform, it’s essential to take some precautions to ensure a secure and satisfactory experience:

• Use the Official Website and App: Always use the official Rent the Runway website or mobile app when browsing, selecting, and renting items. Be cautious of third-party websites or apps that claim to offer similar services, as they may be fraudulent.
• Read Terms and Policies: Familiarize yourself with Rent the Runway’s terms and conditions, rental policies, and return policies before making a reservation. Understanding their rules and procedures will help you navigate the rental process smoothly.
• Check Item Descriptions: Thoroughly read the descriptions and reviews for each item you’re considering renting. This will help you choose the right size, style, and condition of clothing or accessories that match your preferences and needs.
• Review Rental Options: Pay attention to the different rental options available, such as rental durations and membership plans, and select the one that best suits your requirements.
• Check Availability: Ensure that the items you want to rent are available for the dates you need them. Popular items may have limited availability, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
• Payment Security: Rent the Runway uses secure payment methods for transactions. Be cautious of any requests for payment through unofficial channels or suspicious emails.
• Inspect Items Upon Receipt: When you receive your rented items, inspect them to ensure they are in the expected condition and match the description. Report any discrepancies or damage to Rent the Runway promptly.
• Follow Return Procedures: When you’re finished with your rented items, follow Rent the Runway’s return procedures. They typically provide pre-paid shipping labels and packaging to make the return process easy.
• Customer Service: If you encounter any issues or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact Rent the Runway’s customer service for assistance. They are there to help you with any concerns.
• Online Security: Maintain the security of your personal and payment information when using the Rent the Runway website or app. Ensure that your login credentials are kept confidential.

Rent the Runway has earned a positive reputation in the fashion rental industry, and many customers have had successful and enjoyable experiences with their services. However, as with any online transaction, it’s wise to exercise caution and take steps to protect your interests and information.

Where to Buy Rent the Runway

• Rent the Runway Website: Visit the official Rent the Runway website (www.renttherunway.com) and navigate to the “Rent the Runway Reserve” section if it’s available. This section may offer items for sale.
• Membership Plans: Some Rent the Runway membership plans may include the option to purchase items that you’ve rented at a discounted rate. Be sure to check your membership benefits if you’re a subscriber.
• In-Store Purchase: Rent the Runway has physical stores in select locations. If you live near one of these locations, you may be able to visit the store and inquire about purchasing items.

Rent the Runway Customer Support

• Phone: You can typically find a customer service phone number on the Rent the Runway website. Call this number to speak with a customer support representative directly.
• Email: Check the website for an official customer support email address. You can send an email detailing your inquiry or issue, and a representative should respond to you.
• Live Chat: Rent the Runway may offer a live chat feature on their website or mobile app. This can be a convenient way to get real-time assistance.
• Help Center: Many common questions and issues can be addressed through the Rent the Runway Help Center on their website. You can browse articles and FAQs to find answers to your questions.
• Social Media: Some companies, including Rent the Runway, have customer support teams that monitor and respond to inquiries on social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook.
• Mobile App: If you use the Rent the Runway mobile app, there may be in-app support features or chat options for assistance.

Rent the Runway Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Access to Designer Fashion: Rent the Runway offers a wide selection of designer clothing and accessories, allowing you to wear high-end fashion without the high price tag.
• Cost-Effective: Renting is often more affordable than buying designer items, especially for special occasions where you may only wear the outfit once.
• Sustainability: Renting clothing promotes sustainable fashion by reducing the environmental impact associated with fast fashion and excessive clothing consumption.
• Variety: Rent the Runway’s inventory is extensive, with options for various occasions, styles, and sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of fashion needs.
• Try Before You Buy: You can rent an item to test it out before deciding whether to purchase it at a discounted price, giving you a chance to “try before you buy.”
• Convenience: Rent the Runway takes care of dry cleaning and maintenance, and they provide pre-paid shipping labels and packaging for easy returns.
• Membership Plans: Subscription plans and membership options offer additional benefits, such as free shipping, insurance coverage, and the ability to rent multiple items each month.
• Personalized Recommendations: The platform may use data and customer preferences to provide personalized outfit recommendations, making it easier to find clothing that suits your style.

Cons:

• Limited Ownership: You don’t own the items you rent, which means you won’t have a permanent addition to your wardrobe.
• Rental Fees: While renting can be cost-effective, the cumulative rental fees can add up over time, potentially exceeding the cost of purchasing similar items.
• Availability: Popular items may have limited availability, so you may not always find what you’re looking for, especially during peak seasons.
• Sizing Concerns: Sizing can be tricky when renting online, as you can’t try on the items in advance. Rent the Runway provides detailed size guides and reviews, but fit may still vary.
• Rental Periods: Rental durations are typically short, which may not be suitable for longer trips or events that span several days.
• Return Process: While Rent the Runway provides pre-paid return labels and packaging, you need to ensure you return items on time to avoid additional fees.
• Quality Control: Some customers have reported receiving items that didn’t meet their expectations in terms of quality or condition.
• Subscription Costs: Membership plans come with monthly costs, which may not be worthwhile if you don’t rent frequently.

Rent the Runway Conclusion

In conclusion, Rent the Runway is a reputable and innovative fashion rental service that provides an array of benefits, making it a popular choice for many fashion-conscious individuals. It offers access to designer clothing and accessories, promotes sustainable fashion practices, and provides a cost-effective way to wear high-end fashion without the need for a significant financial investment. With personalized recommendations, convenient rental options, and the ability to “try before you buy,” Rent the Runway offers a unique and enjoyable fashion experience.

However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as limited ownership, rental fees, sizing concerns, and the need to adhere to rental periods and return policies. Like any service, Rent the Runway has its pros and cons, and its suitability depends on individual preferences, fashion needs, and lifestyle.

Before using Rent the Runway, carefully consider your fashion goals and how they align with the service’s offerings. Review their website and policies for the most up-to-date information on inventory, rental options, and pricing. By doing so, you can determine whether Rent the Runway is the right choice for your specific fashion needs and preferences.

Rent the Runway FAQ

How does Rent the Runway work?

You can browse their website or mobile app, select items to rent, choose a rental duration, and have the items shipped to your address. After wearing them, you return the items using the provided packaging and pre-paid shipping label.

What types of items can I rent from Rent the Runway?

Rent the Runway offers dresses, tops, bottoms, outerwear, accessories, shoes, athleisure wear, maternity clothing, workwear, and more.

Is Rent the Runway only for special occasions, or can I rent everyday clothing?

You can rent both special occasion and everyday clothing from Rent the Runway, depending on your needs.

Can I purchase items from Rent the Runway?

Yes, Rent the Runway offers a “RTR Reserve” option where you can purchase select designer items at a discounted price. Additionally, you may have the option to purchase items you’ve rented.

How long can I rent items for?

Rental durations typically range from four to eight days, but the exact duration depends on your choice when renting.

Do I need a membership to use Rent the Runway?

No, you don’t need a membership to use Rent the Runway, but they do offer various membership plans that provide benefits like free shipping, insurance coverage, and more.

How does the return process work?

Rent the Runway provides pre-paid shipping labels and packaging for returns. Simply follow their return instructions to send back the items after your rental period.

Is Rent the Runway safe and legitimate?

Yes, Rent the Runway is considered a safe and legitimate fashion rental service. It has been in operation for several years and has a positive reputation in the industry.

Can I try on items before renting them?

Rent the Runway primarily operates online, so you can’t physically try on items before renting. However, they provide detailed size guides, customer reviews, and styling recommendations to help you choose the right items.

What happens if an item I rented gets damaged?

Rent the Runway offers insurance coverage for rentals, which may cover minor damage. However, significant damage or loss may incur additional charges.

Where can I find Rent the Runway’s customer support?

You can contact Rent the Runway’s customer support through their website, app, or via phone or email. Check their official website for up-to-date contact information.

Please keep in mind that the specific details and offerings of Rent the Runway may change over time, so it’s a good practice to visit their official website or contact their customer support for the most current information and answers to any specific questions you may have.