With the average cost of a wedding dress coming in at around $1,500, it's no wonder that many brides-to-be are opting to rent their dream gown instead. Not only does renting save you money, but it also allows for more flexibility and convenience when it comes to selecting and receiving your wedding day attire. If you're considering renting a wedding dress for your big day, here are some of the best places to do so:
Rent The Runway
Rent The Runway (RTR) is one of the most popular options for brides looking to rent their wedding dress. With thousands of designer gowns and an easy-to-use website, RTR makes it simple to find and rent the perfect dress for your big day. Here are some pros and cons of using RTR:
Pros:
- Large selection of designer gowns
- Affordable rental prices (starting at $30 per rental)
- Option to purchase insurance for an additional fee
- Free shipping and returns
Cons:
- Limited sizing options (most dresses only available in sizes 0-12)
- No option to try on the dress before renting
Borrowing Magnolia
Borrowing Magnolia (BM) is another great option for brides looking to rent their wedding dress. BM offers a more curated selection of gowns, with an emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly brands. Here are some pros and cons of using BM:
Pros:
- Sustainable and eco-friendly focus
- Curated collection of gowns from independent designers
- Option to try on the dress before renting (in select cities)
- Free shipping and returns
Cons:
- Smaller selection of gowns compared to RTR
- Higher rental prices (starting at $100 per rental)
Union Station
Union Station (US) is a bridal boutique that offers both new and gently-used wedding dresses for rent. With a focus on sustainable fashion, US allows brides to rent their dream gown while also being mindful of the environment. Here are some pros and cons of using US:
Pros:
- Sustainable and eco-friendly focus
- Option to rent both new and gently-used gowns
- Affordable rental prices (starting at $50 per rental)
- In-person appointments available for try-on and consultation
Cons:
- Limited selection of gowns compared to RTR and BM
- Inventory may vary based on location
Vow To Be Chic
Vow To Be Chic (VTBC) is a wedding dress rental service that offers a wide variety of designer gowns at affordable prices. With a focus on making the rental process as easy and stress-free as possible, VTBC is a great option for brides who want to rent their dream dress without any hassle. Here are some pros and cons of using VTBC:
Pros:
- Wide variety of designer gowns (including Vera Wang, Marchesa, and Monique Lhuillier)
- Affordable rental prices (starting at $50 per rental)
- Free shipping and returns
- Option to purchase insurance for an additional fee
Cons:
- No option to try on the dress before renting
- Limited sizing options (most dresses only available in sizes 2-16)
Local Bridal Shops With Rental Options
In addition to online rental services, many local bridal shops also offer wedding dress rental options. Renting from a local shop allows you to try on the dress before renting and provides a more personalized experience. Some notable local shops that offer wedding dress rental include:
- Brides by Demetrios (Chicago, IL) - Offers both new and gently-used gowns for rent at affordable prices.
- Bridal Garden (New York, NY) - A nonprofit bridal shop that offers a wide selection of designer gowns for rent.
- Curvy Chic Bride (Austin, TX) - A bridal shop that specializes in plus-size wedding dresses and offers both new and gently-used gowns for rent.
FAQ Section
Q: Is it cheaper to rent or buy a wedding dress?
A: Renting a wedding dress is generally much more affordable than buying one, with rental prices starting at around $30 per rental compared to the average cost of a new wedding dress being around $1,500.
Q: Can you try on a wedding dress before renting it?
A: It depends on where you choose to rent your gown. Some online services, like Borrowing Magnolia and Vow To Be Chic, do not offer the option to try on the dress before renting, while others, like local bridal shops, allow you to do so in-person.
Q: What happens if something goes wrong with a rented wedding dress?
A: Most rental services offer insurance or protection plans for an additional fee, which can cover any damage or stains that may occur during the rental period. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your rental agreement carefully before making a decision.
Conclusion And Final Thoughts On Wedding Dress Rental
Renting a wedding dress can be a great way to save money and have more flexibility when it comes to selecting your attire for the big day. With so many options available, from online rental services like RTR and BM to local bridal shops with rental options, there's never been a better time to consider renting your dream gown. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable company or shop that offers a wide selection of gowns and affordable prices.
