Clothing rental services have become more trendy in recent years with Nuuly and Rent the Runway being the two most popular. While outside looking in they can seem like the same service, there are some similarities and key differences in the debate between Nuuly vs Rent the Runway. Having had personal experience using both services, I feel I have a great understanding for which service is best depending on your needs and lifestyle.

As a Floridian, one of my favorite uses of clothing rental services is renting cold weather gear when traveling somewhere cold during the winter. Aside from renting specifically for the changing seasons, rentals can be great for special occasions, vacations, or workwear. I frequently rent clothes to spruce up my wardrobe for upcoming trips to avoid overspending on new clothes.

Nuuly vs Rent the Runway: Major Differences

While Nuuly and Rent the Runway both offer rental clothes, there are some obvious differences to consider prior to renting.

Nuuly offers a 6 item monthly rental, while Rent the Runway’s equivalent allows 10 items per month, which includes 2 shipments of 5 items.

Quite noticeably, one major difference is how the items arrive to your doorstep. While both do ship their items in a reusable tote, Rent the Runway ships all items on a hanger and each has its own plastic garment bag. Nuuly, however, simply folds the clothes neatly into their tote. Personally, I’m not a fan of the plastic garment bags, but I do enjoy having the hangers.

In addition, Rent the Runway has the option to rent a single item for 4-8 days, which is great for those seeking something to wear for a special occasion like a wedding or other life event. If you are renting a single item, Rent the Runway also offers a free backup size.

Another key difference, if you’re renting month-to-month, Rent the Runway allows you to keep items and only trade in what you want. While Nuuly requires you to ship all items back. However, Nuuly will allow you to unlock your next month early and Rent the Runway only allows the two shipments and a new month does not begin until your next billing date.

Lastly, Rent the Runway also provides the option to rent handbags and accessories which can help enhance your look, especially if you’re renting for a special occasion.

Nuuly vs Rent the Runway: Similarities

While there are many key differences in the Nuuly vs Rent the Runway debate, there are some similarities, as well.

Though it may seem simple, both platforms allow you to create a favorites list. This can easily help you determine if any item you love is available in your size when it’s time for you to select your items. Users are also able to create multiple lists allowing you to organize items be season or event.

Both rental service also allow you to buy your items at a discounted price. The discount may vary on how new or used he item is, but items are typically at least 10% off.

Of course, both services also allow you to pause or cancel at any time in the event you are only renting on an as needed basis.

Nuuly vs Rent the Runway: Which Service is Best for You?

While both services share some of the same brands, like Farm Rio, Lilly Pulitzer, and a few others, Rent the Runway does have more high end designers and workwear like Tory Burch, Badgley Mischka, and others. I feel that Rent the Runway is the best option for those in the corporate world or looking for high fashion for special events and parties.

On the other hand, Nuuly carries more everyday brands like Anthropologie, Free People, and more, making it the best option for those looking to spruce up their everyday closet or prepping for a vacation.

As someone who chronically buys new clothes for vacation, Nuuly has been my go-to for adding new items to my vacation wardrobe. Which has been great for my wallet.

So, Nuuly or Rent the Runway?

So, there you have it! Nuuly and Rent the Runway both offer a stylish solution to overflowing closets and impulse purchases, but they cater to different fashionistas.

Rent the Runway is your best bet if you crave luxury labels, need a show-stopping outfit for a special occasion, or to navigate the corporate world in style. They have a wider selection of high-end designers and workwear options, plus the perk of keeping items longer if you fall in love.

Nuuly shines for those who want to refresh their everyday wardrobe with on-trend pieces from familiar brands, or who, like me, are chronic vacation outfit accumulators. Nuuly’s focus on casual styles and the ability to unlock your next month’s picks early makes it a perfect choice for refreshing your look without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the best service depends on your personal style and needs. But hey, with both Nuuly and Rent the Runway offering pause and cancel options, why not give each a try and see which one stitches itself into your fashion routine?

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