In 2025, the approach to fashion shopping has evolved significantly. More individuals now prioritize access over ownership, opting to pay for temporary use rather than permanent possession. As a result, many turn to clothing rental services to explore new styles. The factors driving this shift include a desire to protect the environment and dissatisfaction with fast fashion. Additionally, some cannot afford luxury brands yet wish to avoid inexpensive retailers like Shein. Leading the charge are Rent the Runway and Armoire—two subscription services that are redefining luxury access and achieving substantial success.
Rent the Runway, established in 2009 in New York City, caters to fashion-forward city dwellers and event attendees. The company appeals to cost-conscious millennials by offering rentals of high-end designer items, such as Oscar de la Renta gowns or Rebecca Minkoff handbags, at a fraction of the retail price. However, items must be returned by the due date, and care guidelines must be followed based on the item. Armoire, founded in 2016, targets professional women in tech, finance, and corporate sectors. Therefore, its offerings include versatile work ensembles, from sharp blazers to elegant dresses and polished accessories, featuring top brands like Theory and Diane von Furstenberg.
Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway (RTR) caters to fashion-savvy customers seeking temporary access to luxury brands like Staud, Veronica Beard, Reformation, Ulla Johnson, A.L.C., and Sandro. Its tiered subscription plans allow shoppers to select a budget-friendly option while enjoying premium designer pieces they might not otherwise afford. Rent the Runway offers three subscription levels, ranging from $59.50 to $316 per month, allowing customers to rent up to five items simultaneously.
Although limited to five pieces at a time, the service provides several perks. Customers can keep items as long as needed, exchange items that don’t fit within 60 days, and receive a complimentary consolation piece in their next shipment. Additionally, items can be purchased at a discount if desired. Each tier includes free shipping and dry cleaning.
Determining whether the cost is “worth it” depends on the perceived value, and Rent the Runway’s data often supports its case. According to its 2024 SEC Form 10-K, the average subscriber wears designer items worth over $45,000 annually, more than 25 times the subscription fees paid. A March 2024 RTR member survey reveals that 82% of users believe the service allows for experimentation without purchase. For those who regularly require fresh, high-end outfits and would otherwise spend retail prices, customer satisfaction records suggest the cost is quite competitive.
Armoire
Armoire’s Unlimited Plan allows shoppers to pay $149 for the first month and $249 for each subsequent month. All tiers cater to professionals seeking a versatile, work-ready wardrobe without ownership obligations. Customers can select six high-quality pieces at a time, including blazers, dresses, and accessories, with the flexibility to swap items whenever desired.
Armoire combines an algorithm with a stylist’s expertise to curate each box. New users complete a brief survey about their preferences and needs before receiving a selection of items from brands like Yumi Kim, Cupcakes & Cashmere, or French Connection. Every plan includes free shipping, cleaning, repair services, and access to Armoire’s full inventory.
Is Armoire’s pricing justified? The statistics suggest “yes.” According to Armoire, two months of service can rotate up to 32 items valued at nearly $10,000, thanks to unlimited swaps, free cleaning, and shipping. An external review supports this assessment. A My Subscription Addiction tester in 2024 reported $96,688 in retail value after several months on the $249-per-month Unlimited plan, approximately 32 times what they paid. For those frequently updating work-ready outfits, this kind of value is significant. The growing subscriber base attests to the subscription’s cost-effectiveness.
