My Rent The Runway Review

I see lots of posts about . With sustainability a hot topic, a lot of people are drawn to renting vs buying. I see the initial draw to that and I think if it means less spending for you, it makes sense. But is renting really sustainable? Here’s my Rent the Runway review.

It’s been at least a year that Rent the Runway was sneaking its way into my mind. I always brushed it off for a few reasons. First, I’m fairly short at 5’2” so I often need my clothes tailored. Most pants and some skirts are entirely too long for me. So, that would eliminate a lot of rental options for me. Second, renting does not leave you with any tangible items. You are spending with nothing to show for it. I do believe in investing in pieces that I will wear again and again. I just think it’s more cost effective.

Having said this, I decided to give Rent the Runway a try this Fall. I completed 2 months of the unlimited plan. The unlimited plan allows you to keep 4 items at a time. I like the idea that I can swap items as many times as I want. Especially knowing that I was going to have fit issues.

I have to say that I was initially disappointed in the availability of items. Most of what I wanted was not available. It took me a while but I finally selected my first 4 items. I winded up only wearing one which is this . This is current season and is still available for purchase which I love. This brand usually fits me quite well so I knew I wouldn’t have any fit issues. The other items did not fit quite as well, and I immediately sent them back and exchanged them for new items. I actually love this dress so much that I am even considering purchasing it.  It is nice to be able to try something before you buy!

The next few items I didn’t wind up wearing either.  The sizes were ok but I think I was so limited in my options that I just picked a few things from brands I like but not giving it too much thought, I actually didn’t feel the desire to reach for them.  I think having a specific occasion in mind is key to making this work.  Or perhaps it is not an occasion, but maybe it’s a work week.  Something to narrow down the options and give you a plan.

However I did have success with my daughter.  Rent the Runway has children’s clothing which I was unaware of. I winded up getting my daughter two coats. They are adorable! She got so many compliments on them too.  Since kids grow so quickly it almost doesn’t make sense to buy “fancy” holiday coats.  Renting was a great option.  She got two coats to wear for the holiday season.

Overall, I am not a huge fan of renting clothing.  I just don’t think that it works for me, nor is it sustainable for the wallet.  I would rather have less quality items that I can wear over and over again, then pay a monthly fee for clothing that I really don’t need and don’t get to keep.  The one occasion I do think this is great for is kids (since they grow so fast), and a special occasion such as a wedding where you may only need the outfit one or two times.

Have you tried Rent The Runway?  I would love to her your Rent the Runway review!

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