Buying from Rent the Runway Sales, Resale & Used Finds

Buying from Rent the Runway: Sales, Resale & Used Finds

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Rent the Runway has revolutionized the way we access designer fashion, introducing the concept of a “Closet in the Cloud” that lets us rent high-end pieces for special occasions. However, the magic doesn’t end there. For fashion enthusiasts looking to snag incredible deals, you can also buy Rent the Runway items and turn temporary rentals into cherished wardrobe staples. This opens up exciting opportunities for Rent the Runway resale, allowing you to own luxury fashion at a fraction of the retail price.

Whether you’re a long-time RTR member or just exploring their offerings, this guide will help you navigate how to shop Rent the Runway for permanent additions to your closet. From acquiring Rent the Runway pre-owned clothing to understanding their Rent the Runway sale and clearance sections, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making a successful Rent the Runway purchase.

Table of Contents

Why Consider Buying from Rent the Runway?

Opting to buy clothes from Rent the Runway comes with numerous advantages:

  1. Luxury for Less: Get access to authenticated designer clothing and accessories—from stunning Rent the Runway dresses for sale to chic tops and coveted handbags—often at significantly reduced prices compared to their original retail tags.
  2. Sustainable Style: Participating in the Rent the Runway resale ecosystem promotes sustainable fashion. By giving pre-loved items a second life, you contribute to the circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of new clothing production.
  3. Try Before You Commit (Membership Perk): RTR members can “test drive” styles before making a permanent purchase. Rent an item, enjoy it, and then decide to buy it directly from your current shipment. This smart strategy helps avoid buyer’s remorse when you buy Rent the Runway clothes.
  4. Guaranteed Authenticity: Concerned about counterfeits? When you buy from Rent the Runway, you can trust that every piece is genuine, sourced directly from hundreds of designer partners.
  5. Curated & Exclusive Finds: Explore a vast selection of items from top designers, including unique pieces from RTR’s exclusive collaborations and private labels like Slate & Willow.
  6. Quality Condition: Don’t confuse pre-loved with poor condition. Items for Rent the Runway purchase have undergone professional cleaning and meticulous inspection, ensuring they arrive in excellent shape.

How to Buy Items from Rent the Runway: The Methods

Ready to own a piece of designer fashion? Here are two main methods to buy Rent the Runway clothes:

Method 1: Direct Purchase (Shop Pre-Loved Inventory)

This option is available to everyone—no membership needed.

  • Locating Items for Sale: Browse sections clearly marked for purchase. Items available for sale will display a “To Buy” price alongside the original retail price for context. Look for dedicated Rent the Runway sale pages that highlight items available for purchase.
  • Understanding Item Condition: Items sold are described as being in “Excellent condition.” While they are Rent the Runway pre-owned and may show minor signs of wear, they have passed rigorous quality checks and are free from significant flaws. Each piece benefits from RTR’s “Clean Confidence” commitment, which includes specialized cleaning processes.
  • Decoding the Prices: Prices may vary, including:
  • Original Retail Price: The item’s original cost when new.
  • Comparable Value: An estimated value based on similar products.
  • RTR Purchase Price (“To Buy”): This is the price you pay, dynamically calculated based on rental history, popularity, and other factors.
  • Making the Purchase: The checkout process is straightforward. Add items to your bag and proceed to payment, accepting major US credit cards (note: prepaid gift cards are not accepted).

Method 2: Buying Items from Your Membership Shipment

This option is exclusive to Rent the Runway subscribers.

  • How It Works: Log in to your RTR account and find the items you currently have “At Home.” If an item is available for purchase, you’ll see a “Buy Now” button next to it.
  • Free Up a Spot: By purchasing an item you currently have, you open up a rental spot for your next shipment.
  • IMPORTANT – Final Sale: Items purchased this way are considered FINAL SALE and cannot be returned or exchanged, even for size issues. Ensure you’re confident in your decision before you buy Rent the Runway pieces.

Finding Deals: Sales, Clearance, and Promotions

Scoring designer pieces for less is even more thrilling with discounts. Here’s how to find deals when you shop Rent the Runway:

  • Clearance and Sale Sections: Regularly check the RTR site for dedicated “Clearance” or Rent the Runway Sale sections, where you’ll often find Rent the Runway pre-owned items at their lowest prices. Items marked “Final Sale” are typically non-returnable, so review carefully.
  • Members-Only Discounts: RTR subscribers may access exclusive sales events for deeper discounts.
  • Promotional Codes: Occasionally, RTR releases promo codes for purchases. Check promotional emails or their website for current offers. Ensure codes apply specifically to purchases.
  • A Note on Other Sale Types: While physical pop-up events like “Rent the Runway Sample Sale NYC” or “Rent the Runway Warehouse Sale” may occur, the consistent way to access discounted inventory is online. There’s no confirmed partnership with sites like ThredUp or department stores to sell their used items; the primary Rent the Runway resale method is through their own platform.

What to Expect When Buying: Shipping, Returns, and Support

After completing your Rent the Runway purchase, here’s what to anticipate:

  • Shipping Your Purchase:
    • Cost: Expect a separate shipping fee, typically around $6.95.
    • Timeline: Purchased items usually arrive within 2-5 business days.
    • Packaging: Your order may arrive in a branded mailer or box and can ship separately from rental orders.
  • Understanding the Return Policy:
    • Eligibility: Most items bought directly can be returned within 7 days of delivery.
    • Non-Returnable Items: Items from your “At Home” section and those marked as “Final Sale” cannot be returned.
    • Return Process: For eligible returns, use the prepaid UPS label included with your order. Ensure items are dropped off within the 7-day window.
    • Fees and Refunds: A $5.95 restocking fee (plus tax) will be deducted from your refund for each returned item.
  • If It Doesn’t Fit: RTR does not offer direct exchanges. If an eligible item doesn’t fit, return it and then place a new order for the desired size.
  • If an Item Arrives Damaged: Inspect your purchase upon delivery. For damaged items, contact RTR customer support immediately for assistance.

Tips for Savvy Shopping on Rent the Runway

Maximize your success in purchasing Rent the Runway pre-owned fashion with these strategies:

  • Become a Review Reader: Member reviews provide valuable insights on fit and quality.
  • Use Fit Tools Wisely: Pay attention to RTR’s size recommendations and garment measurements.
  • Know “Final Sale” Means Final: Be certain before purchasing final sale items.
  • Calculate Potential Return Costs: Factor in restocking fees when unsure about an item’s fit.
  • Hunt for Promo Codes: Always check for applicable discount codes before checkout.
  • Know Your Designers: Familiarity with brands can help in choosing the right fit.
  • Utilize the ‘Hearts’ Feature: Save items for later consideration by clicking the heart icon, creating a personalized wishlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I purchase the clothes I’m currently renting through my RTR membership?
Yes, members can buy items directly from their “At Home” selection. Remember, these purchases are final sale and cannot be returned.

Can I buy clothes from Rent the Runway if I’m not a member or haven’t rented them first?
Absolutely! RTR offers a selection of pre-loved items for direct purchase accessible to everyone.

What’s the typical condition of the pre-owned clothes sold by Rent the Runway?
RTR items are sold in “Excellent” condition, having undergone thorough inspections and professional cleaning.

What is Rent the Runway’s return policy for items I purchase?
Most items can be returned within 7 days, excluding final sale items. A $5.95 restocking fee applies.

Which purchased items from Rent the Runway are considered ‘final sale’?
Final sale items include those bought from your “At Home” rentals and any marked as “Clearance.”

Why is there a restocking fee for returned purchases at Rent the Runway?
The restocking fee helps offset the costs of processing returns.

What if I purchase an item and it doesn’t fit?
If eligible for return, you can send it back for a refund, but direct exchanges are not available.

What are the shipping costs when buying clothes from Rent the Runway?
Expect a separate shipping fee for purchases, typically around $6.95, with delivery in 2-5 business days.

How does Rent the Runway set the purchase prices for its items?
Prices are based on original retail, comparable values, and dynamic algorithms considering various factors.

Are the clothes cleaned before Rent the Runway sells them?
Yes, all items are professionally cleaned before being listed for sale.

Can I use a Rent the Runway gift card to purchase clothing?
Yes, RTR Digital Gift Cards can be used for purchases, except for items currently rented to you.

Does Rent the Runway partner with other stores like ThredUp to sell its used clothes?
Currently, the primary method for purchasing RTR items is through their own platform, with no confirmed partnerships for resale through third-party channels.

By following this guide, you can navigate the exciting world of Rent the Runway purchases and find amazing pieces to elevate your wardrobe, all while enjoying the benefits of sustainable fashion. Happy shopping!