An article in the NY Times recently featured a company called Rent the Runway that is in the business of "renting" designer dresses for a fraction of their retail cost. The business model is not necessarily a new one, Netflix does it for movies and Bag, Borrow or Steal has been doing it for handbags and accessories for some time now; but the idea of renting high ticket items versus actually purchasing them does serve a specific need, doesn't it? For example, I go to a lot of weddings and recently found myself staring into my closet full of dresses, lamenting that I had nothing to wear to an upcoming one. I have plenty of dress options, but I have worn them all multiple times and have grown a little bored with them...it would be nice to have a low-cost option for spicing my wardrobe up a bit every now and again. The business model that the Rent the Runway founders are operating is an interesting one...rent a designer dress for a special event at rates anywhere between $50 to $200. There is, in my opinion at least, a certain threshold up to which I would be willing to pay to rent a dress (probably around $50-$75, maybe even up to $100 depending on the designer and the dress), but beyond that I don't see the point in paying for a rental--$200 is a lot to pay to RENT something and if I'm going to shell at that kind of money I want to own it, ya know? I guess it also depends on how often you use the service: if you only use it once a year for a very special event, then maybe it would be worth it? Otherwise, maybe the best option we have is to continue to raid our friend's closets when we've reach a point of frustration with our own. Regardless, it is an interesting concept, especially in tougher economic times when a new party dress isn't necessarily on everyone's list of top priorities.
I'm not sure if I'm going to be hopping on the clothes rental train anytime soon, but I am interested to hear any opinions that may be out there about services like this? How useful do you think something like this is? Have any of you signed up for it, or do you think you would consider joining it? Does anyone do the Bag, Borrow or Steal thing?
While the concept of renting designer pieces is interesting, I think I'm more of a believer in the Carrie Bradshaw mantra: "I like my money where I can see it...hanging in my closet".
18 comments:
I dunno if I could pay more than $50 to rent a dress - I'd rather shop for a new one or scavenge my friend's closets!
I just don't think I could do this, besides the phobia I have with wearing clothes someone else may have worn...I think I'd rather just have a beautiful item hanging in my closet that I could stare at!
I would rather buy one I think. Although, I do need a long dress for an event and I would rather rent then spend upwards of a grand. But what about alterations? I guess it would work if you are tall? Too many questions about how this whole thing works.
That's one of my favorite quotes! I sure do live by it too! Yikes! ;)
Love the quote at the end! I posted it on my blog last week! xoxo
What will they think of next?! I agree, that I'd be willing to spend about 50-100 bucks tops to rent a fabulous dress, but $200 is very outrageous!
This is an awesome idea, however I'm so clutsy and irresponsible that I'd probably spill something on it or fail to return it within the allotted amount of time...oy...
In theory I like the idea of renting a dress but $50-$200 is more than a little steep. Maybe the should do some kind of memebership cost instead then you could get a certain number each year?
I miss Carrie Bradshaw. It may be time to get out the old seasons and start over.
OMG. The thought of rented clothes freaks me the hell out. I don't even like bowling because of the borrowed shoes!
I saw this the other day and had a discussion about it with a friend. It made me laugh because she had to switch dresses with another BM in our wedding b/c the other girl needed a free-flowing dress b/c she was pregnant... and my friend rushed it off to the cleaners the next day b/c the thought of the other girl's sweat grossed her out! Ha, ha. You should have seen the look on her face when I mentioned this renting idea!
I agree on the price threshold. There's only so much I'm willing to pay to look good for one day!
I was really intrigued by that article - I think in certain situations, it'd be the perfect solution to a fashion crisis.
I side with Carrie! If CB says it, it must be true! I wonder if you fall in love with an item, they would let you buy it?
I never did Bag, Borrow or Steal because I was afraid I would spill something on the goods. ah ha
I just gave you an award! Come over to my place and check it out! LOVE! xoxo
I like the concept, but I just like to OWN stuff! It's why I don't do libraries and took forever to give in to Netflix. I want it in my possession forever!
I don't think I'm organized enough for this lately!! I think the concept is good though...esp for those who aren't big on wearing things multiple times!
ps - sorry I've been SUCH A comment slacker :( I'm trying to play catch up
Yes, you know -- there used to be a place (I believe on Elizabeth Street) in Nolita that did this. However, I think they may have gone out of business. :(
You were able to "rent" a dress/designer outfit for Friday, Saturday, and return it on Sunday.
It's a great idea and keeps your closet oh-so-current. The only bummer is if you go out with the same group of people 2 nights in a row!
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