If we're to remember 2023 for anything, it's for the rising cost of living. Thanks to the inflated prices of, well, everything, it's little surprise everyone's had to tighten their straps a little. And buying a glittery gown to wear one time this year end, in this economy? No thanks.
Perhaps this is the perfect time to consider dress rentals. If your closet space is anything like your paycheck – that is, not growing any larger – then the last thing you need to shell out dollars for is a dress you're only going to wear once before relegating it to being squished in the back of your wardrobe, doomed to join the "I Forgot I Had This" club of clothing. Trust us, no company D&D is ever worth the high hundreds of dollars you're about to spill on a semi-decent dress.
Instead, dress rentals afford you plenty of options, without the long-term commitment. Pick a look (or ten looks) that you love, have it sent over, and you've got a different dress for every party. No more mental gymnastics of going "I could style this same black dress with a necklace, a different shoe and a jacket for the next three parties" because hey presto! You've got new looks for every festive party.
Ahead, check out some of the best dress rental companies to help you sort your year-end OOTDs.
A favourite of the red carpet crowd here, Style Lease stocks plenty of dressy options that turn up the glamour ante. Brands carried here are well-loved amongst social media stylesetters, with the likes of Solace London, Milla and Rasario all available for you to pick from. From ethereal tulle pieces that are fit for a Disney princess to sleek column evening gowns, Style Lease's offers plenty of range to fit a variety of personal styles. Best of all? Rental prices start from $100, and you have up to 5 days to hold on to your rented piece before you have to drop it off at their studio in Clarke Quay. Plus, they'll pick up the drycleaning tab, so you don't have to worry.
When renting with Style Theory, you have two options: you can subscribe to a monthly rental and get fresh pieces delivered to you each month or you could opt for a one-time rental. For the latter, prices start at $40, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Style Theory's wardrobe ranges from daywear to eveningwear, and prices for a simple cocktail LBD can start at $40 for a one-time rental. Styles here tend to lean towards simpler silhouettes in comparison to other dress rentals, so think of this as your extended wardrobe where pieces offered on Style Theory's website can be easily paired with things that you already own.
Started by singer-actress Ming Bridges, Rentadella is the go-to for fashion girlies who are looking for one-of-a-kind designs to turn heads. With a sizing range that runs all the way up to UK20, there's something for every woman no matter your dress size. Another thing that we love is the range that Rentadella offers. Choose from safer jewel tones, opt for a tailored fit with their range of evening suits, or go all out in a frothy ruffled gown. Rentals here usually run between 4 to 8 days, but they can accommodate up to 16-day rentals if you get in touch with their team. They also offer same-day delivery, for those frock emergencies.
Not sure where to start when it comes to perusing a rental catalogue? Love, Fioyo makes it easy for you by categorising them into occasions – think themes like "bridal", "date night" and "gala" to name a few. Renting a dress from there is pretty fuss-free as well – just browse their collection of dresses, book the pieces you want to rent, and arrange for your own pick up and return.
Whether you're on the hunt for a bridal dress or a gown for your company's year-end celebrations, Luxe Wardrobe will likely have something for you. Carrying a gamut of designers that include contemporary brands like Zac Posen, Bec & Bridge and Nookie, the process here at Luxe Wardrobe is similar to most other rental companies. You peruse their catalogue, earmark the ones you want to rent or try on at their Keong Saik showroom, and then cart it out for rental.