The only clothing rental service I have used is: Rent The Runway. It is my first stop whenever I need something for a special occasion (like weddings and such). I had considered their monthly rental service for my work wardrobe as well, but I soon realized that I simply don’t have the bandwidth for weekly returns via the post office or time to scroll through options and order new pieces.
For my personal style and shopping mantra (Quality > Quantity) it made more sense for me to invest in one time capsule wardrobe than to shell out monthly membership (which is $159/month for RTR).
[ Related: Five Tips For Outlet Mall Shopping ]
Renting PROs
- Less Carbon Footprint
- Regular New Options
- Designer Clothes
Rent CONs (for me)
- Time (Returns and Orders)
- Membership Cost
Personally too many options give me a headache and feel like a royal waste of my time. While shopping I am not interested in filling my closet with random purchases. Instead, I have a running list of things in my 'Notes' (on my phone) of pieces which I lack in my closet and if I happen to stumble upon them then I will purchase them immediately as those pieces will be a part of a 'puzzle' or 'a building block in my closet' so to say. They are never an impulse purchase or driven by trends. I have waited for years sometimes to purchase things on my list. Unless they are basics (inners, socks, office shirts) there is never an urgency for me to buy them. I need the fit, the color and the fabric to be exactly what I am looking for.
For example, I have a classic professional work style. My goal for my workwear is to be comfortable, efficient and polished. I am not interested in making any statements (intentionally). The minimum effort that is required on my end in the morning, the best. Hence, I choose shopping fewer, classic, versatile pieces than having to come up with new outfits every week via renting, is my preferred way of life.
In no way am I saying that renting is the wrong option. It is just not for me and these are my reasons.
What are your thoughts on Renting Vs Buying?
Everyone's needs are different and I respect yours. I recently had lunch with a woman who loves renting her clothes. It suits her need for more varied outfits. The companies who do it (and they're increasing) survive only if there's a big enough market and it appears there is.
ReplyDeleteI used to use RTR for special occasions as well. But now I just own my "special" pieces instead of renting them. For everyday wear, I tend to have my go-tos and wear the same outfits all the time. Makes life a lot easier. I never shop for clothes. But sometimes I do see pieces online that catch my eye and then I get them. I think I've bought maybe 6 pieces in 2019.
ReplyDeletenew post: https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/12/getting-cozy-with-tempur-pedic.html
I really do like RTR but yes the returning process is time consuming. They also have an $89/month option in which you get 4 pieces per month. I like this option as 4 new pieces a month is pretty good with less returns and more affordable. But yes a capsule wardrobe is key in particular for work and then add a few fun trendy pieces once in a while.
ReplyDeleteAllie of
www.allienyc.com
I totally agree. I won't rent clothes for my day to day life, because I believe that it's way too much money. I reuse and create different outfits with what I have. I think that it's a great option for special occasions. Dresses are worn once for an event and then never again, so renting under that circumstances is a good idea.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeletePersonally I don't know how much and how I would like to rent clothes, I like to have them for me always, to wear anytime I want!
I've never heard of renting clothes before. What a novel idea. It would certainly be great for anyone needing variety. Happy Christmas!
ReplyDeleteWe'd consider renting for a one-off event like a press do or a wedding but agree that it would be more sensible to invest in a capsule wardrobe x
ReplyDeleteI like renting for a special occasion when I know I'll only wear a piece one time. There's no need to buy something I'll never use again.
ReplyDeleteI have done some rental service and they are great. But I use them strategically. Like for instance I'm on the fence on buying something, I use the rental services to see if I truly love the item and/or if ended up using the item often.
ReplyDeletewww.rdsobsessions.com
I have never done a rental service but have thought about it! I am with you, I tend to only buy things that can be worn many times and items that are great quality!
ReplyDeleteI tend to agree with you! sometimes returning and picking my next shipment with RTR took the fun / ease out of it!!
ReplyDeleteI love using Rent the Runway! It gives me access to items I wouldn't have access to before, leaves extra roomin my closet and is good for the environment :-)
ReplyDeleteLizzie
www.lizzieinlace.com
I've never rented clothes and never really understood the concept. It's fun to look at other subscribers and see their different looks each month but personally it seems like a lot of work to have a new outfit that's temporary. I didn't even think about the hassle of shipping them back either.
ReplyDeleteI've never used RTR before, but I've always heard really good things about it! Xx.
ReplyDeleteI've never rented clothes before but my daughter did! She got a dress from Run the Runway and she fell in love with it. Great service and clothes in great condition.
ReplyDeleteRenting clothes is such a new concept for me, but I know this is something that we need to do more to stop us from buying clothes as it is better for the environment
ReplyDeleteI have never thought to rent clothing before, but that's pretty smart! I can see how that can save money.
ReplyDeleteI haven't tried a clothing rental program yet, but am intrigued! I do think the downside (for me!) for RTR Unlimited would also be the monthly cost and time it takes to go through the website to select my items and taking the time to return them.
ReplyDeleteRachel
www.hello-her.com
Gorgeous gorgeous outfits as always! I haven't tried renting yet but it sounds intriguing:)
ReplyDeletei think it totally depends on what you need it for. if you need a special outfit for a one time use, i would totally rent it.
ReplyDeletei've never rented clothes but i get the appeal. i'm scaed i'd like like everything enough and never send back!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of renting the clothes so I can wear different things without spending too much money
ReplyDeleteI've rented clothes before and have mixed feelings about renting and buying. I normally base my decision on what type of clothing it is and how many times I think i'lll actually wear it. I normally only rent for special events.
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to try Rent the Runway. I literally refuse to spend money on purchasing clothes so I feel like this could be a good option for me!
ReplyDeleteMy daughter rents for special occasions like weddings, where she wants a top notch outfit, but doesn't plan to wear it again for another reason. It's fun to see her selections come through the mail.
ReplyDeleteI have never rented clothing but see that it's a great way to not spend and have a much better collection for events.
ReplyDeleteI agree! Rental services can cause overspending for sure! But I like to use the things I rent for events since those are special times where I usually only wear the item that one time. LOVED this post and hearing your perspective on the two!
ReplyDelete-Morgan
The HER Chronicles [] http://theherchronicles.com
I have never thought about renting before, but you have my interest! I am going to look into it!
ReplyDeleteI love the look.
ReplyDeletewww.rsrue.blogspot.com
I’ve learned that I can rely on your posts for timely, relevant, USEFUL information with practical applications. Very cool. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteIt totally depends on what you need it for. If you need an outfit for a one time use, then i would totally rent it.But i really don't like used outfit so i prefer buying a new one.
ReplyDeleteI did Gwynniebee before and I liked trying new dresses several times a month. I do agree that the subscription costs are annoying and so are the time limits. Rent the Runway has always made sense to me because you often just wear a dress one time to a more fancy event.
ReplyDelete