RTR 101: The What, Why & How Behind Our New Memberships

September 22, 2020

We’re on a mission to change the way the world gets dressed. We believe in the power of the circular economy, specifically the positive impact renting and buying second hand has on the way the world interacts with fashion. As an RTR Ambassador, you are a huge part of that.

Community is at the center of everything that we do, which is why we’ve taken the time to chat with our members about how Rent the Runway fits into their lives to assess what’s working, what’s not and what might be missing.

These conversations have led us to a breakthrough: the power of a rented closet means more flexibility. With budget and access to amazing fashion at the forefront, we’ve updated our plans to be even more customizable and inclusive of where our members are. ICYMI: Jenn announced the background behind this decision, you can read about it here.

As a major part of our community and an extension of the RTR team, we want you to fully understand the what, why and how behind our updated plans:

First things first, what are the RTR membership options?

With an RTR membership, the perks are a huge plus: access to amazing designers at your fingertips, the perfect look for every occasion, constant newness, less laundry, free shipping, more time for you and a confidence boost that comes with loving your outfit.

Now, we have even more options that meet the changing needs, budgets and preferences of our members:

*Note: Prices reflected above are inclusive of your exclusive discount: 40% Off 2 Months of a 8 or 16 Item Plan.

What are the key differences between our new memberships and Unlimited Swaps?

With our 8 & 16 Item plans, there are two key features that stand out: a Free Fit Do-Over, included for the first 2 months while the member is figuring out designer fit, and faster turnaround time. Because these plans have a set number of shipments and swaps per month, we want to ensure our members get the most out of their membership, and that’s why we’ve created these exclusive features. These new plans provide a more flexible and lower maintenance way to access the endless closet.

How do the new plans work?

With our 8 item plan, you get:
- 2 shipments/mo

- 4 items at home at a time 

With our 16 item plan, you get: 

- 4 shipments/month

- 4 items at a home at a time

As with Unlimited Swaps, it’s up to you whether you want to swap all or just a few of your items. You do not have to return all four items together, but doing so maximizes the number of new items you get each month. As always, if you need more, you can always purchase extra spots. We reduced the price to $29/mo (+ tax), which you can add or remove as needed.

With the 8 & 16 Items plans, do I have to swap all 4 items at the same time?

You are able to choose to swap all items for your next shipment or only swap a few. You do not have to send back all four items together, but doing so does maximize the number of new items you get per month.

You can tell us which items you plan to return on the RTR site or App and then pick new items before your returns are in the mail. The number of items you mark as returning determines the number of new items you will get to pick for your next shipment. If you want to return 3 items and keep 1, you will be able to pick 3 new items for your next shipment.

How does faster turnaround time work?

8 & 16 Item members can let us know which items they’re sending back and instantly pick their next shipment on the RTR site or App. After confirming the shipment, you have 24 hours to send your returns back to RTR with your pre-paid shipping label. This feature isn’t included in the Unlimited Swaps plan. Learn more about faster turnaround time here!

What’s the financial value of these new memberships compared to buying clothes?

A core pillar for Rent the Runway is and always will be making designer fashion accessible and the fashion industry more sustainable — giving you a better option than fast fashion. In fact, those that rent more than 16 items per month are often getting more than $80,000 in retail value per year!

What if something does not fit?

When you join a new program, you’ll automatically receive a Free Fit Do-Over, which provides the ability to receive a replacement shipment at no extra charge within the first two months of membership. If you’ve already used your Free Fit Do-Over and you receive a shipment where you can’t wear any or most of your items, contact us at concierge@renttherunway.com and we’ll be happy to help you find a solution.

If I buy something, will a spot immediately open up?

With our new plans, if you purchase an item, a spot will  open up for your next shipment. An extra shipment will not be added to your plan. We're working to make purchasing with your membership even easier in the coming months — stay tuned!

As an Ambassador, can I switch to an 8 or 16 Item plan?

Absolutely! First, you’ll need to return or buy any items that you have at home. Once we receive the items, we can help you cancel your Unlimited Swaps membership and sign you up for a new plan. Just email us at rtrambassadors@renttherunway.com and we’ll help you get started.

Still have questions? Reach out to our Ambassador team rtrambassadors@renttherunway.com.