This Week's Obsession: Top 5 Reasons to Rent Luxury Clothing
Rental vs. Co-Ownership: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Luxury Wardrobe
Fifteen years ago, very few people would consider renting luxury or designer clothing until the launch of Rent the Runway in the US. In today’s fashion landscape, renting luxury items has become more accessible and popular than ever. From glamorous gowns to high-end accessories, rental platforms offer a way to enjoy luxury fashion without the long-term commitment. However, is renting always the best option? Let's explore the advantages of renting, its limitations, and how co-ownership of luxury goods—like designer bags—can offer a smarter alternative.
1. Affordability for Special Occasions
Luxury fashion often comes with a hefty price tag, making renting an appealing choice for one-time events like weddings or galas. Renting allows you to access designer pieces at a fraction of the cost, giving you a chance to shine in high-end style without a long-term financial commitment.
That said, if you frequently rent to augment your wardrobe, the costs can add up quickly, leaving you with “nothing to show for it.” Designer bag rentals, in particular, can be expensive for single-use occasions.
Co-ownership offers a more cost-effective solution for those looking to enjoy luxury pieces regularly, providing access to iconic bags without overspending.
2. Sustainability and Circular Fashion
The rise of rental platforms has been driven by eco-conscious consumers seeking to reduce fashion waste. Renting luxury fashion promotes sustainability by decreasing demand for fast fashion. However, frequent cleaning, maintenance, and shipping of rented items can increase their environmental impact.
Co-ownership, on the other hand, aligns seamlessly with circular fashion principles. By sharing ownership of designer bags, each piece is cherished and maintained for years. At More, we ensure all items are cleaned, repaired, and preserved to maximise their lifespan and minimise waste, offering a truly sustainable way to enjoy luxury fashion.
3. Keeping Up with Fashion Trends
Fashion trends are constantly evolving, and renting provides a way to stay on-trend without committing to pieces that may lose their appeal. It’s perfect for experimenting with bold colours, statement designs, or unique cuts. However, availability can sometimes be an issue—especially for high-demand items during peak seasons.
We agree that rentals are a great option for short-term experimentation. But if you're seeking iconic investment pieces to wear regularly, co-ownership is a smarter, more sustainable choice that lets you stay stylish without contributing to overconsumption.
4. Convenience for One-Time Use
When it comes to special occasions like proms, weddings, or red-carpet events, renting luxury clothing ensures you’re perfectly dressed for the moment—without committing to a purchase that might collect dust in your closet. However, there are drawbacks, such as potential damage fees, availability issues, or fit concerns.
If you find yourself drawn to timeless staples, like a little black dress (LBD) you’ll wear over and over again, co-ownership is the ideal alternative. You can share the cost of investment-worthy pieces with others while enjoying long-term value and versatility.
5. Test Before You Invest
Renting can also be a practical way to “try before you buy.” It allows you to experience the look and feel of luxury items before making a significant financial commitment. However, keep in mind that purchase options on rental platforms often come at a premium compared to traditional retail or resale channels.
Co-ownership takes this idea a step further. By investing in shared ownership, you can enjoy high-end fashion pieces for months or years—without the pressure of upfront costs or one-time usage fees.
Why Co-Ownership is the Future of Sustainable Luxury
At More, we believe the future of luxury lies in circular fashion. If you’re a conscious consumer looking to build a wardrobe that is fashionable, sustainable, and cost-effective, co-ownership is your best option. Here’s how to create a balanced, circular wardrobe:
- Buy what you wear daily—preferably second-hand to minimise environmental impact. Our favourite UK stops for resale are Sign of the Times, Sellier Knightsbridge and Circular Groove
- Rent items for one-time occasions or to experiment with new styles. Our favourite rental sites in the UK are Front Row, Hurr Collective, MWHQ and ByRotation.
- Co-Own investment pieces you’ll wear regularly, sharing the cost while maximising value and sustainability.
Co-ownership offers the best of both worlds: affordability and access to luxury items, all while reducing waste and supporting a sustainable fashion future.
Ready to redefine how you enjoy luxury fashion? Explore our co-ownership model for designer bags and be at the vanguard of the next evolution in circular fashion.
A Conversation with Our Founders
Where: Instagram Live
When: Friday, January 31st, 2025
Time: 13:00 GMT
Are you a female founder or interested in angel investing? Join the co-founders of More Luxury Club to learn how they are overcoming the challenges of fundraising and making it easier for female investors to get in on the ground floor of innovative female founded businesses.
Not following us on Instagram? Start today.
We look forward to seeing you next Friday!
Luxury Is Everywhere, If You Look
A few months ago we wrong a blog called the Top 13 Designer Bags of All Time. It won't surprise most of you, that the usual suspects dominated the list. Is this because they are the only luxury designer bags available or is it because they spend billions on marketing each year to ensure they dominate your mindshare?
At More Luxury Club, we believe it’s the latter. As a club dedicated to making high-quality luxury goods more affordable and sustainable through co-ownership, we’re passionate about spotlighting designers who align with our values of craftsmanship, longevity, and style.
This month, we’re excited to introduce Karina Immanuel, a London-based designer known for her impeccable handbags crafted in the UK. One standout from her collection is the ARC bag, a masterpiece of design and practicality. With its structured silhouette, laptop-friendly size, and elegant shoulder strap, it’s a perfect blend of form and function. Even the interior of the ARC bag reflects the artistry and care of true luxury craftsmanship.
By co-owning exceptional pieces like these, our members experience the joy of luxury while contributing to a more sustainable future—because timeless design deserves to be shared, cherished, and cared for.
Love It or 'Hate' It? The Never|Ever|Full
The Neverfull continues to enchant and captivate luxury bag enthusiasts this season, especially with the highly anticipated Fall 2024 debut of the Neverfull Inside Out. Adding even more excitement to the Neverfull legacy, visionary designer Pharrell Williams has unveiled the Nevereverfull, a showstopping piece from his Men’s Spring-Summer 2025 collection.
This extraordinary creation reimagines the iconic Neverfull silhouette in an XL size, redefining spaciousness with impressive dimensions of 60 x 38 x 23 cm (23.6 x 15 x 9.1 inches)—a striking evolution from the original Neverfull GM Tote. Crafted with Pharrell’s innovative LVers Damier Ebene canvas, this vibrant multicolored design is elevated by the luxurious touch of aged cowhide leather trim, breathing fresh life into a timeless classic.
Perfect for the modern traveler, the Nevereverfull features a secure double zip fastening, adorned with elegant pearl zip pulls, combining functionality with luxury. Inside, you’ll find a spacious main compartment and a matching removable pouch—ideal for keeping your essentials stylishly organised. And remember: if my man thinks it's his, he’s mistaken—this bag is as bold and unapologetic as its design.
We’d love to hear your thoughts—what do you think of Pharrell’s bold take on this timeless classic?
