About
Rent the Runway (RTR) is a fashion-forward rental and subscription service that gives users access to hundreds of designer and premium clothing brands without the commitment of ownership. Customers can either subscribe to a monthly plan—receiving 5 items per shipment—or opt for individual one-off rentals for specific occasions. The rotating closet model means users always have access to the latest trends, from cocktail dresses and gowns to workwear and vacation-ready looks. RTR takes care of all dry cleaning and logistics, delivering new styles in 1–3 days and accepting returns when members are ready for something new. The platform curates collections for weddings, parties, everyday office wear, maternity, and more, making it easy to dress appropriately for any moment. Users can browse by occasion, designer, or style category, and the service includes a buy/clearance section for items members want to keep permanently. With a mobile app available on iOS and Android, members can manage their shipments, browse new arrivals, and build their next order on the go. RTR also offers gift cards, a referral rewards program, and ambassador partnerships. It is ideal for fashion-conscious individuals who want variety and quality without the environmental and financial cost of fast fashion.
Key Features
- Subscription Closet: Choose 5 items per shipment from hundreds of designer brands and swap them out whenever you're ready for something new.
- One-Off Rentals: Rent individual pieces for specific occasions like weddings, galas, or parties without committing to a monthly subscription.
- Dry Cleaning Included: RTR handles all cleaning and garment care, so members never have to worry about maintenance between uses.
- Hundreds of Designer Brands: Access a curated catalog spanning top designer and premium brands across dresses, workwear, outerwear, accessories, and more.
- Buy & Clearance Section: Purchase favorite pieces at discounted clearance prices when you want to keep something permanently from your rental.
Use Cases
- Renting a designer gown or cocktail dress for a wedding, gala, or formal event without the high purchase price.
- Refreshing a work wardrobe each month through subscription to stay stylish in the office without buying new clothes.
- Trying out current fashion trends (bold prints, statement coats) risk-free before deciding to invest in similar owned pieces.
- Packing a curated vacation wardrobe with resort and travel-ready styles rented specifically for a trip.
- Dressing for maternity occasions with designer maternity rentals that fit a changing body without long-term clothing investment.
Pros
- Wardrobe Variety Without Clutter: Access new styles every season without accumulating clothes, keeping your physical closet minimal and intentional.
- Full-Service Convenience: Dry cleaning, shipping, and returns are all handled by RTR, making the experience nearly effortless for the user.
- Cost-Effective Designer Access: Wear high-end designer pieces at a fraction of retail cost through the monthly subscription or one-off rental model.
Cons
- Ongoing Subscription Cost: The monthly subscription fee adds up over time, and members who don't use the service frequently may not get full value.
- Fit and Availability Uncertainty: Popular sizes and styles can be unavailable, and fit can be inconsistent when renting without trying items on first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Rent the Runway subscription work?
Members join a monthly subscription, select 5 items per shipment from hundreds of designers, wear them, and return when ready. New selections are delivered in 1–3 days.
Can I rent without a subscription?
Yes. RTR offers one-off rentals for individual events or occasions, allowing you to rent specific pieces without committing to a monthly plan.
Does Rent the Runway handle dry cleaning?
Yes. All dry cleaning and garment care is included in the service — you simply wear the items and return them without any cleaning required.
Is there a mobile app for Rent the Runway?
Yes. RTR has a mobile app available on both iOS and Android, allowing you to browse styles, manage shipments, and place orders on the go.
Can I buy items I rent from Rent the Runway?
Yes. RTR has a Buy/Clearance section where you can purchase select pieces at discounted prices if you'd like to keep them permanently.
