What is Rent the Runway & How Does It Work A Beginner's Guide

What is Rent the Runway & How Does It Work? A Beginner’s Guide

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Have you ever found yourself scrolling through countless online stores or staring at a packed closet, feeling like you have nothing perfect to wear for an upcoming event or just everyday life? Imagine stepping into a world where you have access to an ever-evolving wardrobe filled with designer outfits for every occasion, mood, or whim—all without the hefty price tag or long-term commitment of ownership. Welcome to the magic of Rent the Runway (RTR). As pioneers of the “Closet in the Cloud,” RTR has fundamentally transformed how many people think about Rent the Runway and approach fashion.

If you’re curious about “what is Rent the Runway?” or “how Rent the Runway works,” you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive Rent the Runway guide is designed to demystify the service, breaking down the Rent the Runway basics. We’ll explore the company’s concept, detail its rental options, and explain exactly how to use Rent the Runway to access a fantastic rotation of designer styles. Whether you’re considering Rent the Runway clothing rental for a single special occasion or looking to revolutionize your everyday style, let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Understanding Rent the Runway: The Company & Concept

So, what is Rent the Runway? At its core, Rent the Runway is a fashion service built around a revolutionary idea: accessing designer fashion through rental rather than ownership. Co-founders Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Fleiss launched the company in 2009, motivated by the high costs associated with buying high-end dresses for single events—often leading to debt or unworn garments cluttering closets. They envisioned a smarter, more flexible approach to getting dressed.

The mission of Rent the Runway is “to power women to feel their best every day.” By democratizing access to designer fashion, RTR breaks down barriers like high costs and limited closet space. Their signature “Closet in the Cloud” offers an extensive, rotating selection of RTR clothing, from gowns and workwear to denim, outerwear, jewelry, and handbags, featuring hundreds of prestigious designer brands.

While Rent the Runway rental is the foundation of the service, it has evolved to incorporate resale, allowing customers to purchase pre-loved designer pieces directly. This supports a broader vision of contributing to a more sustainable fashion future by promoting a circular economy where items are shared and worn more frequently, reducing the need for constant new production. If you’re wondering, “is Rent the Runway legit?“—its track record speaks volumes. Operating for over a decade, RTR has served a vast customer base (around 3 million lifetime customers as of early 2024), forged strong partnerships with hundreds of designer brands, and transitioned into a publicly traded entity (NASDAQ: RENT), establishing RTR Rent the Runway as a credible force in the fashion industry.

How Rent the Runway Works: Your Rental Options

Understanding how Rent the Runway works boils down to knowing the two primary methods for accessing their incredible inventory: flexible Memberships or event-specific One-Time Rentals (known as RTR Reserve). Many people search online forums trying to figure out how does Rent the Runway work—this breakdown clarifies the process.

Option 1: RTR Memberships (Subscription Model)

This is the cornerstone of Rent the Runway clothing rental, perfect for those wanting a constantly refreshed wardrobe with ongoing access to new styles.

  • The Process:
  • Choose Your Plan: All membership plans allow you to have a set number of items (starting at 5) at home simultaneously. The main difference between plans lies in how many shipments you receive per month (determining how often you can swap) and the scope of closet access. Options range from 1 shipment (total 5 items/month) to plans offering 2, 3, 4, or even 6 shipments per month (allowing for 10, 15, 20, or 30 total items monthly, respectively, if swapping all items each time). You’ll also choose between “Limited Closet” access (styles up to $350 retail value) or “Full Closet” access (styles up to $3,000 retail value). Select the combination that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
  • Select Your Styles: Unlike mystery boxes, you have complete control. Browse the extensive RTR clothing collection on the Rent the Runway website (renttherunway.com) or app and handpick the specific dresses, tops, jeans, bags, jewelry, or other pieces you want in each shipment.
  • Wear and Enjoy: Your selections arrive professionally dry-cleaned and ready to wear, typically within 2-3 business days. The beauty of membership is flexibility; wear items once or keep cherished pieces like a versatile handbag or coat for weeks or even months. There’s no obligation to return everything simultaneously—pieces you keep simply occupy spots in your allowance.
  • Swap for New Items: When you’re ready for a refresh and have a shipment available under your plan, indicate which items you’re returning and select your next batch. A convenient feature allows you to choose your next shipment before your returns are scanned back, minimizing gaps in having rentals.
  • Return Process Simplified: Returning is designed to be hassle-free. Pack the items into the provided reusable garment bag, affix the prepaid UPS return label (usually found in a pocket inside the bag), and drop it off at a UPS location. In select zip codes, RTR offers complimentary home pickup for membership returns, easily scheduled after confirming your next shipment.
  • Key Benefits: Professional cleaning is always included. Members gain access to exclusive sales and discounted prices if they wish to purchase items they’ve rented (or other pre-loved pieces). Plans are adaptable—you can often adjust the number of spots or shipments monthly, and pausing or canceling your membership is possible anytime without penalty fees. Plus, you benefit from various fit guidance tools.

Option 2: One-Time Rentals (RTR Reserve)

This option is tailored for securing that perfect, show-stopping outfit for a specific event like a wedding, gala, vacation, or important presentation, locking it in for a defined period.

  • The Process:
  • Reserve in Advance: Explore the runway clothes rental inventory available for specific dates. Select the item(s) you desire, choose either a 4-day or 8-day rental duration, and pick your delivery date. It’s wise to select a date 1-2 days before your event to allow time for trying things on.
  • Receive Your Look: Your order arrives dry-cleaned and pristine. A key advantage of Reserve is the complimentary backup size included for primary items like dresses, significantly increasing the chances of a flawless fit. You can also easily add accessories or a coordinating handbag to your order.
  • Wear to Your Event: Step out in style and confidence!
  • Easy Returns: Once your rental period concludes, package the items using the provided materials, apply the prepaid UPS shipping label, and ensure it’s dropped off with UPS by 12 pm on or before your scheduled return date to avoid late fees.
  • When to Use: RTR Reserve is the ideal choice when you need absolute certainty about having a particular outfit for a predetermined date. While membership offers great variety, securing one specific, highly sought-after item for a future date can be less predictable. (Bonus: Active Rent the Runway members typically enjoy a percentage discount on Reserve rentals).

Essential RTR Features & Logistics

Understanding these operational details will help you navigate your Rent the Runway experience smoothly, whether you’re a member or using Reserve:

Finding the Right Fit

RTR provides multiple resources to help you find sizes that make you feel fabulous:

  • Available Sizes: Rent the Runway is inclusive, offering a size range from 00 to 22, in addition to specific maternity styles.
  • Fit Tools: The platform leverages community power. You can read thousands of detailed member reviews, often accompanied by photos, filtered by body type and size for relatable insights. Each item page also presents a “Smart Size Recommendation” generated from collective fit data. Furthermore, members can text with RTR stylists for personalized advice on sizing and creating shipments.
  • Fit Guarantee (First 60 Days for New Members): To encourage exploration, new members receive a helpful perk: if any item in your first few shipments doesn’t fit or feel right during your initial 60 days, RTR provides a free replacement spot in your next shipment.
  • Maternity Sizing Explained: Items explicitly named “Maternity” are designed with pregnancy proportions in mind. Typically, you can order your usual pre-pregnancy size. Other styles curated within the maternity section are non-maternity pieces deemed “bump-friendly” due to their cut or fabric; for these, sizing up one or two sizes is often recommended based on your trimester.

Cleaning & Item Care

Forget the dry cleaning bills and hassle; RTR handles it all:

  • RTR Handles Cleaning: This is a core value proposition. You are instructed not to clean the items yourself. Rent the Runway operates sophisticated cleaning hubs (“Dream Fulfillment Centers”) staffed by garment care experts. They use a range of cleaning methods (wet, dry, spot cleaning, hydroxyl processes) specifically chosen for each garment’s needs and materials. They notably do not use Perchloroethylene (PERC). Most garments also undergo a high-heat steaming process (between 248°F and 302°F) for additional sanitization and wrinkle removal.
  • Item Condition: The goal is for every item to arrive in “excellent condition”—professionally cleaned, pressed, inspected, and ready to wear. Given the rental model, garments are pre-loved, so minor signs of wear might exist but should not detract from the overall appearance. Items are carefully sealed in protective plastic after cleaning (RTR encourages returning these covers and hangers for recycling/reuse).
  • Rental Coverage: Your rental fee inherently includes insurance covering minor, fixable issues like everyday wear and tear, small stains, or minor zipper/seam problems. Live your life without excessive worry! However, this coverage does not extend to significant damage, losing an item entirely, or theft. In such instances, you will be charged for the item (up to its retail value for Reserve, or the calculated ‘to buy’ price for membership items, plus tax).

Shipping & Delivery

Getting your fashion fix delivered and returning it smoothly:

  • Delivery Timelines: Expect deliveries by 10 p.m. local time on your scheduled arrival date.
    • Membership: The majority of orders arrive within 2-3 business days. Some metropolitan areas even benefit from faster options like Saturday or same-day delivery. Orders placed Monday-Friday before 3 p.m. ET typically ship that same day.
    • One-Time Rentals: Scheduled precisely to arrive on the delivery date you selected during booking.
    • Purchases: Usually arrive within 2-5 business days; your specific delivery window estimate is provided at checkout.
  • Shipping Costs:
    • Membership: Standard round-trip shipping is built into your monthly membership fee.
    • One-Time Rentals: Standard shipping costs $9.95. Expedited options (like Next-Day outside Manhattan or Saturday delivery) incur a higher fee, typically around $35. Manhattan Same-Day is often available for $9.95 if ordered early enough.
    • Purchases: These ship independently from rentals and have a flat shipping rate of $6.95.
  • Shipping Area: Rent the Runway currently ships exclusively within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. Service is unavailable for P.O. Boxes or APO/FPO addresses. Importantly, returns must also be initiated and shipped from within the U.S. using the provided UPS label.

Buying What You Love

Sometimes a rental feels too good to send back. RTR makes owning possible:

  • Option to Purchase: Members often have the chance to buy items they are currently renting directly through the “Buy Now” feature on their account homepage. Purchasing an item instantly frees up that ‘spot’ for your next shipment. Additionally, RTR lists many pre-loved items for direct purchase without needing to rent them first.
  • Authenticity Guaranteed: Because Rent the Runway partners directly with hundreds of designers to source the runway clothing, you can purchase with confidence, knowing the items are authentic.
  • Condition of Purchased Items: Unless otherwise stated (like in specific sample sales featuring new items), pieces available for purchase are pre-loved but maintained in “Excellent condition” through RTR’s rigorous cleaning, inspection, and repair processes.
  • Return Policy for Purchases: This policy differs significantly from rental returns. Items purchased directly (that are not marked ‘final sale’) can be returned for a refund within 7 days of delivery. However, a $5.95 restocking fee (plus tax) applies to each returned item, and the original $6.95 shipping fee is non-refundable. Items must be returned unworn and in their original condition. Crucially, any item you rent via your membership and then decide to purchase while it’s still in your possession is considered FINAL SALE and cannot be returned. Clearance items are also typically designated as final sale.

Getting Started with Rent the Runway

Ready to dive into the world of RTR Rent the Runway? Embarking on your first Rent the Runway rental is simple:

  1. Visit the Website: Navigate your browser to the official Rent the Runway website: renttherunway.com.
  2. Browse and Explore: Immerse yourself in the possibilities! Discover the hundreds of designers, browse RTR clothing categories (dresses, tops, outerwear, accessories, etc.), or get inspired by curated collections. Utilize filters for occasion, color, size, body type, and more to refine your search.
  3. Choose Your Path: Consider your fashion needs. Do you want a steady stream of newness for work and weekends (Membership)? Or do you need one spectacular outfit for an upcoming wedding (Reserve)? Select the service model that aligns best with your goals.
  4. Look for Promotions: Before finalizing, check the Rent the Runway site for any current promotions or introductory offers specifically for new customers. Codes (like GETDRESSED, though offers vary) can sometimes provide discounts on your first Reserve rental or the initial month of a membership.

Is Rent the Runway Worth It? Weighing the Factors

So, is Rent the Runway worth it? Let’s weigh the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Variety & Designer Access: A diverse wardrobe without the purchase price.
  • Cost-Effectiveness for Frequent Users: A potentially cheaper alternative for regular event attendees.
  • Sustainability Focus: Promotes clothing reuse and reduces new production demand.
  • Convenience: Items arrive cleaned and ready to wear, saving time on laundry.
  • Flexibility: Adjust your plan and pause or cancel at any time.

Cons:

  • Recurring Cost: Membership fees are a regular expense.
  • Availability Fluctuations: Popular items may not always be available when you want them.
  • Strict Late Fees: Late returns can incur hefty fees.
  • Fees on Purchase Returns: Deductions reduce the refund amount.

Verdict:

Rent the Runway is likely valuable for those who prioritize variety, convenience, and sustainability in their fashion choices. However, it may not suit individuals who prefer ownership, have limited budgets, or dislike managing the logistics of returns.

Rent the Runway FAQ (Beginner Questions)

Navigating a new service often comes with questions. Here are clearer answers to common inquiries based on how Rent the Runway operates:

  • What sizes does Rent the Runway offer?
    You’ll find an inclusive range of sizes on Rent the Runway, spanning from 00 up to 22. They also provide dedicated maternity sizing options for expectant mothers.
  • How long am I allowed to keep clothes I rent through a membership?
    Membership offers great flexibility; you can keep your rented items for as long as you wish while your membership is active. There’s no set return date for individual pieces. If you hold onto an item longer, it simply occupies one of your available rental spots until you decide to return it or purchase it.
  • Do I need to clean the rented clothing myself?
    No, cleaning is entirely handled by Rent the Runway. You should not wash, dry clean, or attempt to clean the garments yourself. RTR employs specialized, professional cleaning processes tailored to each item between every rental, ensuring they arrive fresh and ready for you.
  • What is the policy if I accidentally damage a rented item?
    Rent the Runway understands minor mishaps occur. Your rental fee includes coverage for normal wear and tear, such as small, repairable stains, loose threads, or minor snags. However, significant damage (like large rips), losing an item, or theft falls outside this coverage. In these situations, you would be charged for the item—up to its retail price for Reserve rentals or the current RTR purchase price for membership items, plus applicable sales tax.
  • How does shipping work and what are the typical delivery times?
    For memberships, standard shipping is included in your monthly fee, and orders typically arrive within 2-3 business days. One-Time Rentals (Reserve) have a standard shipping fee of $9.95 (with expedited options available at extra cost) and are scheduled to arrive on your chosen delivery date. Direct purchases ship separately for $6.95 and generally take 2-5 business days. Deliveries occur within the U.S. only.
  • Is it possible to buy an item I’ve rented and liked?
    Yes, absolutely. If you fall in love with an item you’re currently renting through your membership, you can usually purchase it directly from your account page. Many pre-loved items are also available for direct purchase on the site without needing to rent them first. Just remember, items bought while actively rented at home are typically considered final sale.
  • What should I do if a rented item doesn’t fit?
    If a One-Time Rental doesn’t fit, contact RTR Customer Support within 48 hours of receiving it. Depending on timing and availability, you might be eligible for a replacement style (for a $12.95 shipping/tax fee) or potentially receive merchandise credit if a replacement isn’t viable for your event. For membership items that don’t fit, you can simply return the piece and select something different in your next available shipment. New members also enjoy a 60-day period with free replacements for fit issues.
  • Can I pause or cancel my Rent the Runway membership?
    Yes, flexibility is a key feature of RTR memberships. You have the option to pause your subscription if you need a temporary break or cancel it completely at any time directly through your account settings on the website or app. Ensure changes are made before your next billing date to avoid subsequent charges.
  • Does Rent the Runway ship internationally?
    Currently, Rent the Runway’s services are limited to the United States. They ship to all states, including Alaska and Hawaii, but cannot deliver to international addresses, P.O. Boxes, or APO/FPO addresses. Returns must also be shipped back from within the U.S.
  • How do I return my rented items?
    Returning your Rent the Runway items is designed for ease. Use the reusable garment bag your order arrived in. Place the garments inside (ensuring accessories are in their protective bags/boxes), remove the prepaid UPS return label from the bag’s inner pocket, and affix it to the clear pouch outside. Then, simply drop the sealed bag off at any official UPS Store, UPS Drop Box, or authorized UPS shipping outlet. If eligible (for membership orders in select areas), you can schedule a convenient home pickup.

Conclusion: Rethink Your Wardrobe with RTR

Rent the Runway presents a compelling solution to the age-old dilemma of “what to wear.” It effectively answers “why rent the runway?” by offering unparalleled access to designer fashion diversity, championing a more sustainable consumption model through its shared ‘Closet in the Cloud,’ providing significant potential cost savings over traditional retail purchasing, and granting the freedom to experiment with trends and styles without long-term commitment.

Whether you aim to infuse your daily wardrobe with new energy, secure that unforgettable look for a landmark occasion, or simply relish the liberation of a dynamic, rotating closet, renttherunway offers the tools and inventory to make it happen. Now that you understand how Rent the Runway works, you’re equipped to explore the potential of this innovative service. Visit the Rent the Runway website (renttherunway.com) and discover how renting can transform your relationship with fashion.