As someone who has splurged on an $800 prom dress, I can say, without a doubt, I regret it. While I adore my off-white Sherri Hill gown, I will only wear this dress once (despite my parents saying I will be wearing it for my wedding). However, there is a more sustainable and affordable, yet still fashionable alternative: renting prom dresses.
There are a variety of online websites that offer stunning dresses to rent like Nuuly, Rent the Runway, By Rotation, Designerex and many more. Nuuly and Rent the Runway offer designer dresses that customers can reserve for four to six days at a time for one price, often with a free backup size. On the website By Rotation, customers have the option to rent out their own dresses, which enables them to ease the financial burden on expensive dresses.
Renting prom dresses significantly reduces the financial burden after purchasing these designer gowns. Many popular prom dress brands such as Sherri Hill, ALC and La Femme come with heavy price tags, many of which are outside the budget for most high school students. By renting, you have the opportunity to wear designer brands at a fraction of the cost. Often, platforms rent out these gowns for over 80% off the retail price. These deals are perfect for people who do not have another occasion to wear expensive dresses, leaving you looking your best without the financial strain.
Choosing to rent a prom dress is also a positive decision to impact the environment. The fashion industry is infamous for constantly changing trends that produce substantial environmental waste. Fast fashion contributes to large carbon emissions that harm the environment. Renting dresses not only alleviates the pressure to purchase and wear new items, but also promotes a cycle for the fashion industry. By opting for rental services, you are really extending the use of the piece of clothing and reducing the demand for new clothing production.
For those choosing to own their own dress, second-hand platforms like Depop and Poshmark make it easier than ever to find beautiful gowns at a discount. Shopping second hand allows customers to find vintage, unique and discontinued finds while contributing to sustainability and reducing waste. This eco-conscious choice is smart for a buyer who needs to alter their dress, something you can not do with a rented dress.
If people are hesitant to buy online without trying on dresses first, the WHS Prom Committee offers a Prom Closet free of charge during Wednesday Intervention in room 1154 in the art wing. Dresses and tuxes are available, but the Prom Closet also has options for accessories like ties and jewelry. Ms. Allison has many options and sizes for all students to shine their brightest on the big night.
Renting and second hand shopping also offers a wide range of options, helping size inclusivity. Many rental services offer a diverse range of sizes so that anyone can find a perfectly fit dress. So, when people feel good, they will look good too! This inclusivity creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere for all students preparing for prom.
The financial, environmental and social benefits of renting prom dresses are very significant, so while I may have splurged in the past, my experience has enlightened my view of a more mindful approach to prom dress shopping. So, instead of spending a fortune on a dress you’ll only wear once (like me), you should consider renting one.
