**This is a sponsored post, however all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.
In 2008 when Jennifer Hudson, I mean Louise shared her little secret about swapping designer purses through Bag Borrow or Steal in Sex and The City, it was music to my ears. It was so exciting to know that anyone, even a poor recent college grad like me could have access to designer bags that were wayyy out of my budget.
Like Bag Borrow or Steal, but taking things even one step further, Rent the Runway launches the following year. With the belief that everybody deserves a Cinderella experience, Rent the Runway is like “Netflix for Fashion.” It provides millions of women the ability to rent one of the 65,000 items, from designer dresses to accessories and other essentials for a fraction of the retail price, allowing them to look and feel beautiful for all of their special occasions.
Not only was 2009 the inaugural year for Rent the Runway, but it was when Casey and I started dating and became professional wedding guests. I can easily think of 20 weddings we’ve attended together, which some I’ve had the honor of being a bridesmaid, therefore didn’t have to worry about what I was going to wear. The other 14+ however, I was left with the typical debate of wearing something in my closet, trying to borrow a dress from a friend, or buying new. And keep in mind, I only mentioned weddings, but there were also Bat/Bar Mitzvahs, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, bridal showers and other events that required me to get all fancy. Rent the Runway was a great option and something I often took advantage of last minute when all else failed. After 8 successful dress rentals, I think it’s safe to say that Rent the Runway is my hero.
The last two rentals have been my favorite so far:
[Both dresses are from RTR: Jen’s Dress. My Dress.]
[Felt like a princess in this Cynthia Rowley dress! And these earrings are stunning!]
In case you’re not familiar with how it works, you have four days to lease the dress [or jewelry or purse] you’ve chosen, unless you pay an additional fee to keep it longer. There are tons of reviews and pictures of women in each style, which really helps to see if it will be a good fit for you. In my experience, the Cynthia Rowley dress was the only one without customer feedback because it was brand new to the site, so I called RTR and asked them their opinion on sizing. Fortunately, they always allow you to rent a second size at no additional cost which is kind of amazing. If you don’t find it necessary to order a second size in the same dress, but are still worried that it may not look good, you have the choice to get a second style at a discounted rate. If your order is a complete bust, just return it within 24 hours [it comes with a UPS prepaid return label] and you’ll have a credit to use for your next occasion. The Customer Service is really exceptional, so should you have any concerns or questions, definitely give them a call!
Get 20% Off your first order with code: FIRSTRTR20P.
How gorgeous are these dresses?!
 Badgley Mischka Champagne Fizz Gown |
 Jay Godfrey Clear View Gown |
 Donna Morgan Berry Bacall Gown |
Would love to hear about your RTR experience in the comments below!
So cute!!! I need to use them sometime!
Laura
http://www.24-7style.com
So many gorgeous pieces, especially loving that cutout dress! I’ve always wanted to try out RTR especially with all the upcoming holiday parties and runways <3
You should definitely try it! So many of my friends have used it also and equally love it as much as I do! They also have a ton of options for under $50!!
I like the Unlimited Service but often the dresses are too short (I’m 5’10”). I’d like an easier way to sort appropriate dresses for taller women.
I selected a dress for my son’s wedding. The first shipment was stuck at a UPS warehouse in my metropolitan area. So RTR sent one size of my selection to the hotel where we were staying for the wedding. I was told the dres would arrive by Friday 8 pm. The following day, I had no dress. No one bothered to tell me that the dres would not arrive until Monday, 2 days after the wedding. All RTR customer service could say was “we are so sorry”. A diaster for me. Our 2 guests had problems with their orders also. Never again
Really?!!! Oh no!!! I’m SO sorry that happened to you and your guests! I’ve been using Rent The Runway for years and knock on wood, have only had positive experiences. Thank you for sharing this with me and my readers. It’s always good to hear feedback from many people.