Who Rents Wedding Dresses? Weddings can be expensive, and many brides are seeking alternative ways to save money without compromising on their dream wedding attire. One of the options that has gained popularity is renting a wedding dress, but where do you find reliable wedding dress rental services?
To start your search, take a look at our wedding dress handbook for valuable advice on shopping for a wedding dress.
“Renting a wedding dress is an eco-friendly and budget-conscious choice for brides who want to look stunning on their big day.” – Amsale Aberra, celebrated bridal fashion designer.
In the UK, 14% of brides choose to rent their wedding dress.
We understand that finding reputable providers who rent wedding dresses can be a challenge. Rest assured, this article will guide you through the process of identifying trustworthy wedding dress rental services, ensuring you look and feel amazing on your special day.
In This Article
What are the Best Companies that Rent Wedding Dresses?
Companies that rent wedding dresses include:
- Rent the Runway
- Lending Luxury
- Borrowing Magnolia
- One Night Affair
- Poshare
- Etsy
- Fashion Pass
- Janet Mandell
- Nearly Newlywed
- Tulerie
You can find out more about each option below.
Rent the Runway
One of the top companies that rent wedding dresses is Rent the Runway. This company offers a variety of designer dresses, including wedding gowns, for rent. They have several rental options, including 4-day and 8-day rentals, and offer a range of sizes, from 0 to 22. They also have a subscription service called RTR Unlimited, which allows you to rent up to four items at a time for a flat monthly fee.
Lending Luxury
Lending Luxury is another popular company that rents wedding dresses. They offer a wide selection of designer dresses, including gowns from Vera Wang, Badgley Mischka, and Monique Lhuillier. They have rental options ranging from 4 to 14 days and offer free shipping both ways. They also have a showroom in Tampa, Florida, where you can try on dresses before renting them.
Borrowing Magnolia
Borrowing Magnolia is a company that specializes in renting wedding dresses. They offer a curated selection of designer dresses, including gowns from Pronovias, Maggie Sottero, and Hayley Paige. They have rental options ranging from 4 to 8 days and offer free shipping both ways. They also have a try-at-home service, where you can try on up to three dresses before renting.
More Companies
- One Night Affair
- Poshare
- Etsy
- Fashion Pass
- Janet Mandell
- Nearly Newlywed
- Tulerie
These companies offer a variety of rental options and designer dresses, so you’re sure to find the perfect dress for your big day. Be sure to check out their websites for more information on pricing, sizing, and availability.
Benefits of Renting Wedding Dresses
Cost Savings
Renting a wedding dress can be a great way to save money on your big day. Wedding dresses can cost thousands of dollars, and you may only wear it once. By renting a dress, you can get the look you want without breaking the bank. Rental prices can vary depending on the dress and the rental company, but it is often much cheaper than buying a dress outright.
Additionally, the cost of renting may also include alterations, storage, and cleaning, which would be additional charges if you were to buy your dress outright. This means that you can save even more money by renting a dress instead of buying one.
More Options
Another benefit of renting a wedding dress is that you have access to a wider range of options. Rental companies often have a large selection of dresses in different styles, sizes, and colors. This means that you can find the perfect dress for your wedding day without having to compromise on your vision.
Furthermore, renting a dress can be a great option if you are having a destination wedding or if you are getting married in a location that is far from home. You may not want to deal with the hassle of transporting your dress, and renting a dress can be a convenient solution.
Convenience
Renting a wedding dress can also be more convenient than buying one. When you rent a dress, you don’t have to worry about finding a place to store it after the wedding, or figuring out what to do with it if you don’t want to keep it. You simply return the dress to the rental company after the wedding, and you’re done.
Additionally, renting a dress can save you time and stress. Wedding dress shopping can be a time-consuming and overwhelming process, but renting a dress can make it easier. You can browse dresses online, select the one you want, and have it delivered to your door. This can save you the hassle of going to multiple stores and trying on different dresses.
How to Choose a Rented Wedding Dress
Choosing a rented wedding dress can be a great way to save money without sacrificing style. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect dress for your big day.
Consider Your Body Type
When choosing a rented wedding dress, it’s important to consider your body type. Look for a dress that flatters your figure and accentuates your best features. For example, if you have an hourglass figure, look for a dress that cinches at the waist and flares out at the hips. If you’re pear-shaped, look for a dress that accentuates your waist and flares out at the bottom.
You can also consider renting a dress in a different size and having it altered to fit your body perfectly. This can be a cost-effective way to get a custom fit without breaking the bank.
Think About the Wedding Theme
Another important factor to consider when choosing a rented wedding dress is the wedding theme. Look for a dress that fits the overall style and vibe of your wedding. If you’re having a beach wedding, for example, you may want to choose a flowy, lightweight dress that’s easy to move in. If you’re having a formal wedding, a more structured gown may be more appropriate.
Don’t forget to consider the season as well. If you’re getting married in the summer, a dress made from lightweight, breathable fabric will keep you cool and comfortable. If you’re getting married in the winter, a dress made from heavier fabric will help keep you warm.
Read Reviews and Check Policies
Before you rent a wedding dress, be sure to read reviews from other brides who have rented from the same company. This can give you a good idea of the quality of the dresses and the level of customer service you can expect.
It’s also important to check the rental company’s policies. Make sure you understand the rental period, the cost of any damages, and the return process. Some companies may also offer insurance to protect against any damage or loss of the dress.
By considering your body type, the wedding theme, and the rental company’s policies, you can choose a rented wedding dress that’s perfect for your big day.
When You Should Buy or Make Your Dress
Choosing whether to buy or make your wedding dress can be a tough decision. There are pros and cons to both options, and ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Here are a few things to consider:
- Timeline: If you have a short engagement or a specific wedding date, buying a dress might be the best option for you. It can take several months to make a dress from scratch, and alterations can add even more time to the process. However, if you have a longer engagement and are willing to put in the time and effort, making your own dress can be a rewarding experience.
- Budget: Wedding dresses can be expensive, and making your own dress can be a cost-effective option. However, keep in mind that fabric and other materials can add up quickly, and mistakes can be costly. If you’re on a tight budget, renting a dress might be a good compromise.
- Style: If you have a specific vision for your dress and can’t find anything that matches it, making your own dress might be the way to go. You can customize every detail to your liking and create a one-of-a-kind gown. On the other hand, if you’re not picky about the style and just want something that looks beautiful, buying or renting a dress can save you time and stress.
Ultimately, the decision to buy or make your wedding dress comes down to your personal preferences and circumstances. Consider your timeline, budget, and style preferences before making a decision. And remember, no matter what you choose, the most important thing is that you feel beautiful and confident on your big day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have when considering renting a wedding dress:
Why rent when I can buy?
Renting a wedding dress can be a great option for those who want a designer gown without the high price tag. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t want to keep the dress after the wedding or have limited storage space. Explore the pros and cons of renting vs. buying a wedding dress to help you make an informed decision.
Is renting a wedding dress sanitary?
Yes, wedding dress rental companies take great care to ensure that their dresses are clean and in good condition. Most companies have strict cleaning protocols and will thoroughly clean and sanitize the dress after each rental. Read more about the cleanliness of wedding dress rentals.
What if the dress doesn’t fit me?
Most wedding dress rental companies offer alterations to ensure a perfect fit. Be sure to check with the company you’re renting from to see what their alteration policies are. Learn more about the fitting process for rental dresses.
How can I try on the dress if I’m not in the area?
Some wedding dress rental companies offer virtual try-ons or will ship the dress to you for a small fee. Be sure to check with the company you’re renting from to see what their policies are. Find out more about trying on rental wedding dresses remotely.
Do rental companies only offer dresses for rent?
Some companies also offer accessories like veils, jewelry, and shoes for rent. Be sure to check with the company you’re renting from to see what they offer. Learn about renting wedding accessories along with your dress.
What if the dress I want isn’t available for my wedding date?
Some companies allow you to reserve a dress ahead of time, so be sure to check with the company you’re renting from to see what their policies are. Discover more about reserving rental wedding dresses.
What if I get my rental dress dirty?
Most companies have a cleaning fee included in the rental price, but if the dress is damaged beyond repair, you may be charged a replacement fee. Be sure to check with the company you’re renting from to see what their policies are. Read about handling dirty or damaged rental dresses.
For additional information about wedding dresses, explore our articles on custom wedding dress costs, Disney wedding dress prices, Eddy K wedding dress prices, the pros and cons of buying vs. making a wedding dress, how to pay for a wedding dress, budgeting for a £1,000 wedding dress, and whether you need to pay to try on wedding dresses.
