Rental is the fashion buzzword of the moment and it’s a great way to practise sustainable style, save wardrobe space and try designer brands at a fraction of the cost. Amanda Marcantonio explains all
WHY RENT?
While the idea behind clothes rental services is to offer a way for people to be more sustainable (we’ve all become more aware of the impact clothing manufacturing is having on our planet), they also allow customers to access designer fashion for a fraction of the retail price. Milestone birthday, awards ceremony, black-tie ball, graduation, wedding… we all attend occasions where the dress code requires standout, swanky attire, and rather than splurging on something new then only wearing it once or twice, rental offers a brilliant, great-value alternative.
NEED-TO-KNOW TIPS
• Where to start? Sign up to a rental site, then filter by the type of item or occasion, then by size and colour (if you have a shade in mind). Peruse the clothes, select a date and book. The company will post the item to you, then you wear it and post it back when you’re done.
• Most sites have a 24-hour return policy for items that don’t fit. Exchanges or credit are often offered, but check individual policies before you commit.
• Sometimes, rival sites have identical pieces at different prices, so check more than one rental platform before booking.
• Some rental sites allow customers to use the service as a pay-per-hire, but others require you to sign up to a monthly subscription, which is ideal if you get dressed up regularly or want to refresh your working wardrobe often.
• You can book up to three months in advance and as little as 48 hours before borrowing, though the earlier you search, the more choice you’ll have. Have a garment delivered a few days before an occasion to give yourself time to try it on and avoid last-minute stress.
• While minor stains are covered by rental fees, most sites will charge you the market value of the piece if it gets seriously damaged or lost.
