Rent the Runway: A Fancy Dress for Less

Having a little black dress on hand is one thing, but having something appropriate for a black-tie event is something very different. You can definitely try to cobble something together — we have all been there before — or you can try Rent the Runway.

This is an online and brick-and-mortar operation that caters to multiple types of customers. The idea is you get to rent clothing you would not otherwise be able to afford. It could be for that rare formal event or, if you are a clothes aficionado and like designer labels, this can become a more regular point of access. Rent the Runway currently offers three options. The first is for one-time events, for anywhere from $30–500, you can rent the dress of your dreams for four–eight days. It is dry cleaned and delivered to your door. They even allow you to choose a back-up option in case your first choice does not work out.

The second option puts you into more of a rhythm, if you find you need to improve your wardrobe on a monthly basis. For $89 a month, you can rent four pieces, not just dresses, but jumpsuits, jackets and everything in between. The last and most committed option is unlimited. For $159 a month, free shipping and unlimited exchanges, you can have a constantly rotating wardrobe of designer pieces. This is the concept of buying something to wear once and then returning it, but taken to a whole new and ethical level. If you have yearned for a wardrobe on the cutting edge of fashion that does not deplete your bank account, give Rent the Runway a chance.