Rent the Runway Review: How It Works, If It’s Worth It, and My Best Tips
If you’ve ever wondered if a Rent the Runway subscription is really worth it, you’re not alone. I used to wonder the exact same thing myself. And now I get asked about it all the time too. I can confidently and honestly say YES. It’s been one of my favorite ways to mix up my wardrobe without constantly buying new pieces and spending too much money. Today I’m breaking it all down: how Rent the Runway works, who it’s best for, and my best tips to get the most out of it. But first, make sure you save my code RTRXLRIECKHOFF to get 50% off your first purchase!
What Is Rent the Runway?
Rent the Runway is a clothing rental service that lets you borrow designer pieces instead of buying them. You can rent items one-time for a special event or sign up for a monthly subscription to rotate pieces regularly. You can also even buy the pieces for just a fraction of the retail price. They carry hundreds of designer brands, and many pieces retail for hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars—so it’s a way to wear higher-end styles without the full price tag. If you’re looking for quality pieces, Rent the Runway is definitely what you need!
How Rent the Runway Works
The process is actually really simple (and kind of addictive in the best way).
1. Choose a Plan
Rent the Runway offers monthly memberships with different tiers depending on how many items you want. You can also add extra spots each month for a discount.
- 1 shipment a month, 5 items – $65 with code RTRXLRIECKHOFF
- 2 shipments a month, 5 items at a time – $82 with code RTRXLRIECKHOFF
- 4 shipments a month, 5 items at a time – $138 with codee RTRXLRIECKHOFF
2. Pick Your Pieces
You browse online and select the items you want. I always save favorites ahead of time so I’m ready when it’s time to swap to see if they have them at the moment in my size.
3. Wear Them
Once your shipment arrives, you can wear the pieces as much as you want.
4. Return + Swap
When you’re done:
- Drop them at UPS or schedule a pickup and they will grab the package from your front porch
- No laundry needed—they handle cleaning
- Choose your pieces for your next shipment
Shipping and cleaning are included, which makes it super easy.
What Is the Best Way to Use Rent the Runway?
- You have a busy social calendar (events, trips, dinners, weddings, date nights)
- You want to wear designer pieces without committing to the price
- You like dressing up
- You like trying new styles often
- You like to have new things to wear but don’t have a limitless budget
You’re essentially getting access to pieces that retail for $200–$800+ for a fraction of the cost.
My Best Rent the Runway Tips
These will make a huge difference in your experience:
1. Read the Reviews (and look at the pictures!)
This is my #1 tip. Reviews tell you:
- If something runs big or small
- How it fits on different body types
- How short or long it is
2. Save a “Closet” Ahead of Time
I always favorite pieces for:
- Upcoming trips
- Events
- Seasonal looks
So when I’m ready to swap, it takes 2 minutes.
3. Order Early for Events
Don’t wait until the last minute—popular pieces book up fast. Just make sure to time it with your rental and return date.
4. Try Something You Wouldn’t Normally Buy
This is where Rent the Runway really shines. It’s a great way to experiment without committing. Though I love them for dressing up, they don’t JUST have dressy pieces, you can also get great casual pieces – denim, shorts, athletic outfits, t-shirts, sweatshirts and more.
Subscription vs. One-Time Rental
Here’s how I think about it:
- Subscription: best for everyday wear + variety
- One-time rental: best for weddings, galas, or special events
If you only need one dress, don’t overcommit—just rent it once instead of signing up monthly.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?
If you love clothing, have events coming up, or just want to refresh your wardrobe without constantly shopping and spending a ton of money…yes, it’s absolutely worth trying. The price is so affordable. You’re spending the price of maybe one outfit to get at least 10 outfits a month. That is worth it alone! You can always have something fun and new to wear. And the best part is that if you love it, you can just buy and keep it for just a fraction of the cost. My $300 rental only cost $60 to buy. 100% worth it! If you’ve been thinking about using Rent the Runway, give it a try. I think you will quickly realize how practical (and fun) it actually is to always have something different to wear without spending much money at all.
