Stretch Your Dollar: Rent the Runway

Nothing to wear? Rent the Runway members can rent designer dresses for as little as $50.

We think that the story of Cinderella has endured through so many generations because it prepares every woman for that inevitable moment when she realizes she doesn’t have a thing to wear. While our heroine had a handy fairy godmother to help her out, the modern woman now has Rent the Runway, a website that allows members to rent high-end dresses from designers such as Alexander Wang, Badgley Mischka, Diane von Furstenberg, Rebecca Taylor and Yigal Azrouël. Harvard Business School pals Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Fleiss started the site last year as a “Netflix for fashion,” says Hyman, “to give women access to the Carrie Bradshaw closet — new trends, aspirational brands — without the guilt of having purchased a dress they’d wear only once.”

Those who are referred by current members can skip the wait list and join Rent the Runway immediately — as can VIVmag readers through this special link. Dress rentals start at $50 and go up to $200 for dresses that retail between $2,000 to $2,500. Dresses are shipped directly from the dry-cleaners to ensure its cleanliness upon arrival. For an additional $25, you can choose another dress in the same price range. Each dress also comes with a backup size, so you can avoid any last-minute dress emergencies. Should mishaps occur (a lost button or a red wine spill) a $5 insurance charge covers minor damage. Plus, each order arrives with a Fit Kit, complete with double-sided tape and Braza Magic Clip for bra straps. Rent the Runway stylists are available to assist with recommendations and style tips! Dresses usually ship in two to three days, although Manhattanites have the option of same-day delivery. Accessories will be available from the site in the spring.

We think this is a great resource, especially with charity events and holiday parties on the horizon. This also would ensure we wouldn’t be seen in the same dress twice, though we don’t face the same scrutiny as some. What do you think about renting a dress for a special event versus buying it?

Tags: Alexander Wang, Badgley, Badgley Mischka, Badgley Mischka Licensing LLC, Clothing, Culture, Diane von Fürstenberg, Dresses, Fashion, Harvard Business School, insurance charge, Jennifer Fleiss, Jennifer Hyman, Rebecca Taylor, USD, VIVmag, Yigal Azrouël