Imagine stepping into a closet brimming with designer possibilities for every event, mood, or workday. Picture yourself effortlessly swapping outfits, embracing new trends, and always having the perfect look ready—all without the commitment of ownership or the strain on your wallet. This is the reality Rent the Runway (RTR) offers with its innovative ‘Closet in the Cloud.’
Since its inception in 2009, Rent the Runway has transformed how women approach fashion, pioneering a revolutionary model: rent designer clothing and accessories, wear them, return them, and repeat. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to experience fashion, express your unique style, and enjoy unparalleled variety. However, with multiple ways to engage, understanding the various Rent the Runway plans and deciphering the Rent the Runway pricing is key to unlocking its full potential.
This guide is designed to illuminate the cost of Rent the Runway. We’ll explore the different Rent the Runway subscriptions, detail the Rent the Runway one-time rental option (known as Reserve), and clarify how much Rent the Runway truly costs, empowering you to select the Rent the Runway package that seamlessly integrates into your life and budget.
Table of Contents
- What is Rent the Runway? The Basics
- Option 1: RTR Memberships – Your Rotating Designer Closet
- Option 2: RTR Reserve – One-Time Rentals for Special Occasions
- Understanding the Full Cost: Fees, Taxes, and Add-Ons
- Trying Before Committing: “Trials” and Promotions
- Beyond Renting: Buying Pre-Loved Items on RTR
- Making the Choice: Which RTR Option is Right for You?
- Conclusion: Dress for the Life You Want
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Rent the Runway? The Basics
Rent the Runway provides a groundbreaking approach to fashion consumption. Instead of investing heavily in designer pieces you might wear only once or twice, you can rent them for a significantly lower cost. This “Closet in the Cloud” grants access to an ever-evolving, vast selection of styles from hundreds of coveted designer brands.
There are two main avenues for using Rent the Runway:
- Memberships: These ongoing Rent the Runway subscriptions cater to those desiring a dynamic, constantly refreshed wardrobe. For a flat monthly fee, you maintain a set number of items at home, swapping them for new styles according to your chosen plan’s shipment frequency.
- Reserve Rentals: This is the Rent the Runway one-time rental service, perfect for securing an outfit for a specific event like a wedding, gala, or important business function. You rent individual items for a defined 4 or 8-day period.
A core benefit for all Rent the Runway users is convenience and quality. Every item arrives professionally cleaned by RTR’s expert garment science team, ready for you to wear. Furthermore, each rental includes coverage for minor mishaps and general wear and tear, allowing you to wear the styles with confidence.
Option 1: RTR Memberships – Your Rotating Designer Closet
If you thrive on variety and relish having new fashion options regularly, a Rent the Runway membership offers an exciting solution. It’s crafted to function as your adaptable, everyday (and special occasion) wardrobe resource.
How Memberships Work
The structure of Rent the Runway packages for members centers around a recurring monthly fee, offering these features:
- Item Slots: All current standard membership plans allow members to have 5 items checked out and at home simultaneously.
- Shipments & Swapping: The primary difference between plans lies in the number of shipments allowed per month. More shipments enable more frequent swapping, meaning you can experience a greater total number of items throughout the month.
- Unmatched Flexibility: As an active member, you can keep rented items for as long as you wish. When you desire something new, you simply select items to return and curate your next shipment. There’s no obligation to return all items together.
- Member Control: Rent the Runway subscriptions come with no long-term commitment. You can pause or cancel your membership anytime via your account settings.
Membership Plan Tiers & Closet Access
Choosing a subscription to Rent the Runway involves understanding the two main levels of “Closet Access,” which determine the breadth and value of styles available to you:
- Limited Closet Access: Features a curated selection of everyday clothing and accessories, generally with retail values up to $350 per item. This tier excludes formal wear, some premium designers, and items within the exclusive “Rent the Runway Vault” (typically reserved for one-time rentals).
- Full Closet Access: Unlocks the vast majority of RTR’s extensive subscription inventory, including pieces with retail values up to $3,000. This encompasses a wide array of clothing, handbags, jewelry, sunglasses, and more—suitable for nearly every aspect of your life, from workdays to weekends to celebrations. (Note: Excludes RTR Vault/Reserve-only designated styles).
Combining closet access and shipment frequency yields the common Rent the Runway plans:
- 5 Items/Month Plan: 1 shipment monthly (swap all 5 for 5 total items/mo). 5 items at home. Available with Limited or Full Closet Access.
- 10 Items/Month Plan: 2 shipments monthly (swap all 5 twice for 10 total items/mo). 5 items at home. Full Closet Access.
- 15 Items/Month Plan: 3 shipments monthly (swap all 5 thrice for 15 total items/mo). 5 items at home. Full Closet Access.
- 20 Items/Month Plan: 4 shipments monthly (swap all 5 four times for 20 total items/mo). 5 items at home. Full Closet Access.
- 30 Items/Month Plan: 6 shipments monthly (swap all 5 six times for 30 total items/mo). 5 items at home. Full Closet Access.
The feeling of near-endless choice within these plans addresses the concept some might recall as what is Rent the Runway unlimited – it’s about the breadth of the cloud closet accessible through your plan.
Rent the Runway Membership Pricing
Now, let’s tackle the crucial question: how much does Rent the Runway cost for members? The specific Rent the Runway pricing depends on your selected plan and closet access. Based on information available on their website (always check for the latest rates and active promotions):
- Limited Closet (5 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $94/month.
- Full Closet (5 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $119/month.
- Full Closet (10 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $144/month.
- Full Closet (15 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $193/month.
- Full Closet (20 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $235/month.
- Full Closet (30 items/mo): Standard price often cited around $316/month.
Decoding Pricing, Trials & Potential Increases: It’s vital to note that RTR frequently runs promotions offering deep discounts for new members, such as “50% Off” the first month. This promotional period effectively serves as a Rent the Runway trial, offering a low-cost entry point to experience the service and determine the cost for Rent the Runway‘s value to you. Look for codes on their promotions page (like INBLOOM or GETDRESSED, subject to availability). These deals are typically for the first month only, after which the membership renews at the standard monthly rate unless paused or canceled. While a completely Rent the Runway free trial isn’t the standard offer, finding a Rent the Runway first month free or heavily discounted deal is common. Pricing can change, so discussions about a Rent the Runway price increase might arise over time; always refer to the current rates listed on their site. Remember, applicable taxes and potential fees are additional.
Key Membership Perks
Opting for a Rent the Runway membership unlocks several valuable advantages for Rent the Runway subscribers:
- Seamless Logistics: Enjoy free standard shipping. Returns are simplified with a prepaid UPS label and reusable garment bag; convenient home pickup is also offered in many areas.
- Hassle-Free Care: Professional cleaning is managed entirely by RTR. No need to wash or dry clean items yourself.
- Try Then Buy: Fall in love with a rented piece? Members can often purchase items directly from their “At Home” section at an exclusive discount.
- Exclusive Sales: Gain access to members-only sales featuring pre-loved designer items at attractive prices.
- Customizable Plans: Need more options for a busy month or vacation? Add extra item spots or shipments to your plan (this becomes a recurring charge unless adjusted back before the next billing cycle).
- Fit Confidence: Leverage community reviews, member photos, and RTR’s smart size recommendation tools.
- New Member Assurance: For the first 60 days, enjoy free replacements for any items that don’t fit or meet your expectations.
- Maternity Options: Maternity styles are included across all subscription plans.
Option 2: RTR Reserve – One-Time Rentals for Special Occasions
If a full membership doesn’t suit your needs, but you desire a show-stopping outfit for a specific event, the Rent the Runway Reserve rental program is your answer. This allows for a Rent the Runway single rental without any monthly commitment, directly addressing queries like “can you rent the runway without membership?” and “can you rent the runway one time?”.
How Reserve Works
The RTR one-time rental process is designed for ease and planning:
- Browse & Select: Explore the curated collection and pick the specific dress, gown, suit, or accessories you need.
- Schedule Your Rental: Choose either a 4-day or 8-day rental window. Book your delivery date 1-2 days prior to your event to ensure ample try-on time. Rentals can often be booked months in advance.
- Fit Assurance: For most primary clothing items, Rent the Runway Reserve includes a complimentary backup size to help you achieve the perfect fit.
- Wear & Return: Your selected items arrive clean and ready for your event. Afterward, use the provided prepaid shipping label and packaging to return everything by the designated date.
Reserve Pricing & Costs
Calculating the cost of Rent the Runway for a Reserve order differs from the membership model:
- Item Rental Fee: Each piece carries its own rental price, influenced by the designer, style complexity, and original retail value.
- Shipping Costs: Standard shipping typically costs $9.95. Expedited options (Next-Day, Saturday) incur a higher fee, often around $35 (rates can vary by location and time of booking).
- Taxes: Relevant sales or rental taxes are calculated based on your shipping address.
- Potential Discounts: Watch for promotional codes applicable to Reserve orders (e.g.,
GETDRESSED,DRESSUP20often appear on their site), frequently offering discounts on first-time rentals.
When to Choose Reserve
Opting for Rent the Runway Reserve makes sense if:
- You require a specific, standout outfit for an isolated event (like a wedding, black-tie affair, important interview, or vacation highlight).
- Your need for designer rentals is infrequent, making a monthly membership less economical.
- You have a particular style in mind and need to secure it for a specific date in the future.
Understanding the Full Cost: Fees, Taxes, and Add-Ons
To accurately assess what does Rent the Runway cost, look beyond the base price and consider other potential Rent the Runway fees and charges:
- Membership Costs Breakdown: The primary expense is your chosen plan’s monthly fee, plus any state/local taxes mandated by your shipping destination.
- Reserve Costs Breakdown: The total includes the rental fee for each item, your selected shipping fee, and applicable taxes.
- Potential Additional Fees:
- Late Fees (Reserve Only): These are crucial to avoid. Returning a Reserve order late incurs fees (up to $50 per day per order is mentioned) as it affects the next renter’s planned use. Failure to return within 7 days can lead to being charged the full purchase price plus tax (less any late fees already paid).
- Damage/Loss Fees: While standard rental coverage handles minor issues, significant damage, lost components, or theft will result in charges, potentially up to the item’s retail or current purchase price plus tax.
- Restocking Fee (Purchases Only): This $5.95 fee (+ tax) per item applies only when you return an item you purchased (not rented) within the eligible 7-day return window. It helps cover reprocessing costs. It does not apply to standard rental returns.
- Cancellation Fee (Reserve Only): Canceling a confirmed Reserve order incurs a $9.95 fee, deducted from your refund or credit (based on cancellation timing relative to the delivery date).
- Taxes: RTR is obligated to collect sales or rental taxes according to the regulations in the jurisdiction where your order is delivered.
Trying Before Committing: “Trials” and Promotions
The concept of a Rent the Runway free trial often comes up. While a completely free, no-obligation trial period isn’t typically part of their standard offering, RTR frequently entices new members with attractive introductory promotions.
These promotions, often advertising “50% Off” or similar discounts for the first month, function effectively as a Rent the Runway trial. They significantly reduce the initial cost for Rent the Runway, providing a budget-friendly opportunity to test the service, evaluate clothing quality, and understand the swap process. If you’re looking for a Rent the Runway first month free deal, these promotional discounts are the closest equivalent typically available. Always check the terms, as these offers are usually for new or sometimes rejoining subscribers and precede renewal at the standard rate.
Furthermore, the 60-day fit promise for new members adds another layer of low-risk trial, ensuring you can get free replacements early on if sizing is an issue.
Beyond Renting: Buying Pre-Loved Items on RTR
Rent the Runway extends beyond rentals, offering a marketplace to purchase pre-loved designer fashion.
- Purchase Paths: You can directly shop their “Pre-Loved” section to buy items without renting first. Alternatively, members can often purchase items they currently have at home through a “Buy Now” feature in their account.
- Item Condition: Items sold have usually been part of the rental cycle. RTR describes them as being in “excellent condition,” acknowledging potential minor imperfections that don’t compromise the overall appearance. Every item undergoes meticulous cleaning and quality checks.
- Understanding Pricing: RTR employs different pricing indicators:
- Original Retail: The suggested price when the item was new.
- Comparable Value: Used for RTR-exclusive designs, comparing to similar new market items.
- RTR Purchase Price (“To Buy”): RTR’s dynamic selling price, influenced by rental data, demand, and other factors.
- Purchase Return Policy: Directly purchased items (excluding final sale items like clearance or those bought while currently rented via membership) can be returned within 7 days of delivery for a refund, less the original shipping cost and a $5.95 (+ tax) per-item restocking fee. Crucially, items bought using the “Buy Now” feature while rented through your membership are FINAL SALE.
- Why Buy from RTR?: Authenticity is guaranteed as RTR sources directly from brands. It’s a chance to own designer pieces, often from recent seasons, at a substantial discount compared to buying new.
Making the Choice: Which RTR Option is Right for You?
Selecting the right Rent the Runway path—Rent the Runway membership or Rent the Runway Reserve—boils down to your lifestyle, fashion needs, and budget.
- A Membership Makes Sense If:
- You desire a regular influx of new outfits for various aspects of your life (work, social, casual).
- You love exploring different designers, trends, and styles without long-term commitment.
- You value having a constantly evolving wardrobe accessible.
- You anticipate getting multiple wears per month, making the flat fee economical.
- The monthly Rent the Runway cost aligns with your budget for ongoing fashion access.
- Reserve is Likely Better If:
- Your primary need is for special occasion wear only a few times per year.
- You prefer planning outfits for specific dates well in advance.
- You don’t require or desire new clothing items on a frequent basis.
- You want the option for a Rent the Runway single rental without a recurring subscription fee.
Feeling uncertain? Consider starting with an entry-level membership plan (like the 5-item option), especially if a first-month discount is available. This offers a lower-commitment way to test the membership experience. Alternatively, try an RTR one-time rental via Reserve for your next significant event to gauge the process and quality firsthand.
Conclusion: Dress for the Life You Want
Rent the Runway presents a modern, flexible, and exciting alternative to traditional fashion consumption. Whether you embrace the continuous style refresh of a Rent the Runway membership or utilize the targeted convenience of an RTR one-time rental, you unlock access to an incredible virtual closet filled with designer possibilities. By understanding the nuances of the Rent the Runway plans, the structure of Rent the Runway pricing, and any potential Rent the Runway fees, you can confidently select the service that best complements your life. It’s about more than just clothes; it’s about the confidence that comes from feeling your best, the joy of self-expression, the smart economics of renting over buying, and contributing to a more sustainable future for fashion—all powered by the Closet in the Cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main differences between RTR Membership plans?
The key distinctions between Rent the Runway membership plans lie in the number of monthly shipments (which dictates how many items you can try over the month) and the scope of closet access—either the Limited Closet (everyday styles up to $350 retail) or the Full Closet (extensive collection up to $3,000 retail). All current standard plans provide 5 item spots to have at home concurrently.
Can I rent from Rent the Runway just one time without a membership?
Absolutely. The Rent the Runway Reserve program is specifically designed for one-time rentals. This allows you to rent specific items for a 4 or 8-day duration for an event, answering the question, “can you rent the runway one time?” without needing a subscription to Rent the Runway.
How much does Rent the Runway cost per month?
The Rent the Runway cost per month varies by membership plan. Standard monthly prices (subject to change and promotions) currently range from about $94 for the 5-item Limited plan to $316 for the 30-item Full plan. Introductory offers often significantly reduce the first month’s cost for Rent the Runway. Remember, Reserve rentals are priced per item plus shipping, not monthly.
Are there extra fees besides the monthly subscription cost?
Yes, beyond the base Rent the Runway membership fee, potential additional costs include state/local taxes, charges for significant damage or loss exceeding the standard coverage, and fees if you opt to add extra spots or shipments to your plan. For Rent the Runway Reserve, late return fees and order cancellation fees can apply. A restocking fee is charged only for returning eligible purchased items.
Does Rent the Runway offer a free trial?
While a standard, completely Rent the Runway free trial isn’t typically advertised, they frequently offer promotions giving substantial discounts (like 50% off) on the Rent the Runway first month free or for a reduced price. This serves as an excellent, low-cost Rent the Runway trial period. Additionally, new members have a 60-day window for free replacements if items don’t fit well.
Can I keep the clothes I rent?
Yes, often you can. Members usually have the option to purchase items they are currently renting via a “Buy Now” feature in their account, typically at a discount. Be aware that purchases of items currently rented at home are generally final sale. You can also shop their selection of pre-loved items for direct purchase.
How long can I keep items with a membership?
With an active Rent the Runway membership, you can keep your rented items for as long as you desire. There’s no set return date per item; you decide when you’re ready to swap. Keeping an item simply means it occupies one of your available spots for your next shipment.
What happens if a rented item doesn’t fit?
For Rent the Runway subscriptions, if an item doesn’t fit, return it in your next swap. During the initial 60 days, new members are eligible for free replacements for fit issues. For Rent the Runway Reserve rentals, a free backup size is included with most main garments. If neither the original nor the backup fits, you can request a different style within the first 48 hours (a shipping fee, around $12.95, may apply) or potentially receive RTR credit if a timely replacement isn’t possible.
