Rent the Runway vs. Nuuly – which is better?
I share my thoughts on two of the most popular clothing rental services: Rent the Runway Unlimited And Nuly. <— I've added both of my recommendation links here in case you decide to check them out!
Hello friends! How are you doing? I hope you’re having a great week so far. It was good here. I had choir (one of the highlights of the week), taught two barre classes, and met friends for dinner at True Food. The pilot and I also took some time to plan, budget and make plans for the rest of the year.
I LOVE going through our subscription payments each year and *cutting the fat*. So often we find ourselves paying for things we don’t use or need, and this is an easy way to get some money back. (Especially when groceries cost a billion dollars.) When we looked through everything, he saw that we had paid for both Rent the runway And Nulyand told me he thought I should keep them because they would significantly impact my online shopping habits, especially since we traveled a lot and did a lot of events.
It’s true! I’ve definitely reduced my purchases over the last few years and have still been able to try out a ton of fun new options thanks to RTR and Nuuly.
Here’s why I like using these two services, why they’re worth it, and what downsides I’ve experienced. You can also check out an older review from RTR here And Nuuly here.
Rent the Runway vs. Nuuly – which is better?
I like both RTR And Nuly because they have different choices and are intended for different occasions. I use RTR for more basic seasonal pieces, like a cozy jacket, or for special occasions, like when I know we’re having a military event or party. I love Nuuly for more casual options like tops and dresses, and also when we go on vacation.
I have used both services in the past and canceled them at various points. I’ve been using the two services side by side for a few years, and here are a few things I’ve noticed:
ADVANTAGES:
– Less shopping. I shop less and focus less on *fast fashion. Because I have luxury options to rent and the options are constantly changing, I never feel like I’m missing out on anything and don’t feel pressured to buy a ton more things.
When I shop now, it’s for things I really need and love (like a new pair of great jeans or shoes), or I might keep something from an RTR or Nuuly shipment and pay for it at a discount. I discovered new brands and learned my sizes for different brands without having to buy and exchange multiple times.
(This blazer was a keeper from a Nuuly delivery)
– I can order dresses for the girls. I also like to choose dresses or sweaters for Liv in my shows because we often host events together (like the NCL tea). The cost of two dresses would be slightly more than what I pay for my monthly allowance RTR subscription. I also ordered some children’s options for P from Nuly for events, and she loved them.
– Different styles and purposes. Nuuly is Anthropologie clothing and brands Rent the runway is a mix of designer brands. Some of my favorites are Ulla Johnson, Derek Lam, Rails, Mother, MISA and Farm Rio, so I often filter the selection by my favorite brands. They also have accessories like sunglasses and jewelry, handbags and outerwear.
– More variety and the opportunity to try out trends without being completely committed. I tend to dress more classically, but if there’s something that’s in fashion and I want to try it out without actually buying it (like the whole “vest as a shirt” vibe), it’s not an obligation.
– Better for the Earth! I feel like I’m doing something for the earth by renting clothes instead of constantly buying new things. Don’t get me wrong, I still LOVE shopping, but I’m much more mindful of my shopping habits. I also like that both companies ship the items in a reusable bag and RTR recycles all plastic packaging.
DISADVANTAGES/DIFFERENCES:
– Sometimes shipping is slow, especially for Nuuly. Rent the runway It’s usually a little quicker, but I feel like the shipping time always shortens a little over the subscription month.
– Quality. Overall, I feel like Rent the Runway is always fresh, new and clean. I’ve gotten some worn and grubby pieces from Nuuly and had to wash some pieces that didn’t smell quite as fresh.
– It depends on what you are looking for. If you are planning a vacation or event, I would definitely recommend Rent the Runway. If you’re looking for more everyday options, I’d check out Nuuly.
– Cost. Here is the cost difference between the two options:
Nuly costs about $100 including tax/shipping (6 pieces total for the month) and Rent the runway costs about $150 (10 total per month; you get 5 of each and can exchange once). For me it was worth it given the many events and trips last year. Depending on what’s going on, I might cancel one for the summer. I think it’s particularly worthwhile if you work in an office and want to change your rotation rhythm. My good friend works in an office and has to look at least business casual every day, and she raves about RTR.
(I still wish I had kept this one!)
If you want to try them out, you can find my recommendation links here!
Nuly
Have you tried any of these online clothing options? Any others you use and love??
xo
Gina
