Hello and hoppy Fri-YAY! Going to make this week's review a quick one since I've got lots to do!
WHAT I'M WEARING THIS WEEK: Rent the Runway
Welcome back to What I'm Wearing This Week — Rent the Runway where you can rent and wear designer items by names you know and love, and up-and-coming designers too!
For the newbies to WIWTW, every Friday I’ll take you on a trip through my life, where I’m going, what’s missing in my closet, my current obsessions, what I’m excited to try, and maybe even buy. Well, that's if the price is right!
For sizing reference, I am 5'11", weigh 140 pounds, and have a 33" inseam.
Rent the Runway is a clothing rental company, but it was the first clothing subscription platform that provided the everyday woman with access to authentic, luxury fashion. Since its launch in 2009, RTR has gone through many iterations, some of which were the result of the pandemic, and now it's also a sustainable resale platform where shoppers can rent, buy, or subscribe to secondhand clothing.
This is a review of the Most Loved 10 Items Per Month plan.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
WHAT I RECEIVED
All four items by Bibhu Mohapatra Collective, Nina Ricci, Monse, and Simkhai arrived fresh from the dry cleaner, on the hanger, and sealed in plastic bags.
THE GOODS
Monse Patchwork Dress, Retail Value $1,990, RTR $1,690
About the Designer: MONSE is a NYC-based luxury label founded in 2015 by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, who also serve as Creative Directors at Oscar de la Renta.
The MONSE collections are inspired by menswear and classic tailoring with a deconstructed perspective. Elements like twisted tailoring, cascade hems, and slashed silhouettes are amongst the label's distinguished design details. MONSE is a line for modern women who seek to stand out from the crowd without compromising her effortless demeanor.
Brand offerings include women's RTW including unisex styles and accessories that can be found at fine retailers around the world.
Why I rented it: Wanted a stylish dress for work!
How I styled it: I only wore this dress to the office, and I paired it with J. Crew d'Orsay flats, the Pinko Lace-Up jacket from Armoire, and a vintage Louis Vuitton bag. It can be transitioned to nighttime wear, and I tried it with strappy Nicholas Kirkwood pumps, a Balenciaga City clutch, and a Burberry Prorsum Bomber jacket.
Size and fit: Crafted in a soft wool blend with a pinstripe and check print, this sleeveless sheath dress gets a little edgy with a crew neckline, back zip closure, front faux flap pockets, and a cutout hem with logo-printed ribbon.
Condition: Brand new with tags.
Honest review: Don't mind Mr. HGL, he's just taking a shower. So, I had high hopes for this dress, but it fell flat for me. While it was great for the office, it was a little boxy and I liked it way more on the model. Nothing wrong with the dress, but I for almost $2,000, I thought it was cheap and not as well made as other things I've tried, like that Yumi Kim maxi from last week.
Simkhai Space Dye Midi Knit Dress, Retail Value $745, RTR $395
About the Designer: Founded in 2010 in New York, Jonathan Simkhai launched his namesake label after years of experience as a fashion buyer and merchandiser. He honed his technical skills at the Parsons School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology. The early success of the label propelled Simkhai into the CFDA Fashion Incubator program where he developed his eye for quality of craft. Simkhai is inspired by the built environment and architecture, which motivates his creative process and desire to push conventional design boundaries. His corporate headquarters are now based in Los Angeles where he opened his first retail store.
Why I rented it: It's been on my list for about two years, but I was always afraid the bodice wouldn't fit properly.
How I styled it: This dress is really versatile! You can dress it up or down and pair it with blacks or neutrals. I wore it with Salvatore Ferragamo Gavina Sandals and a Gucci Studded Leather jacket and the Chanel 19 to see a comedian named K-Von at the Arlington Drafthouse. I was supposed to go with the guy who tried to dress me, but I disinvited and blocked him, and gave the ticket to a friend.
I also wore it with a Vince Leather jacket, Karl Lagerfeld Strappy pumps, and the Fendi Fendista.
Size and fit: This blue multicolor knit sheath dress features a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves, slim-fitting bodice, flared skirt, and contrasting hem. I ordered a 4/6 and since it runs a little large, it was a perfect fit!
Condition: Great.
Honest review: I'm glad I didn't listen to the review because this dress surpassed my expectations! It's really lovely and perfect for in between weather.
Nina Ricci Polka Dot Mini Dress, Retail Value $1,000, RTR $TBD
About the designer: Nina Ricci has represented bold and optimistic femininity since its inception. In 1946, the Maison created its very first perfume, Coeur de Joie, followed by the iconic L’Air du Temps in 1948, embodying the timelessness of the house.
More than a brand, Nina Ricci encourages women to flourish and feel their best. Independent, powerful and elevated by a sincere beauty, the Nina Ricci woman is empowered to reveal the charm of her emotions and fulfil her deepest desires.
Why I rented it: It's giving Minnie Mouse vibes!
How I styled it: I wore this dress to work and my mom's little b-day gathering (she wanted lots of filters on the pic) at Conrad's Crabs Restaurant. I slipped on a pair of Calzedonia nylons, J. Crew flats, Lele Sadoughi pearl hoops, and carried a Louis Vuitton tote. I also wore it to Cafe Milano, a DC institution, and wore Tabitha Simmons Laser-Cut pumps and carried the Prada Bunny clutch (for obvious reasons).
Size and fit: I ordered a French 40/US 6 it ran slightly larger than I expected... it was quite roomy! Crafted in pure silk with contrasting polka dots, this fun and frilly dress features a boat neckline, oversized puff sleeves with slit cuffs, a concealed back zip closure, and lots of feminine flair!
Condition: Like new!
Honest review: Super cute, well made, and unique! Total winner.
Bibhu Mohapatra Faux Leather Midi Dress, Retail Value $465, RTR $195
About the designer: While designer Bibhu Mohapatra moved to the U.S. in 1996, his years growing up on the east coast of India in Odisha, formed the expanding spirit of everything he sees and creates. His mother Sashikala, instilled in him at an early age a near obsession with handwork and textiles as well as a deep appreciation for making clothes that function and symbolize something powerful.
As the longtime design director for J.Mendel (before that he spent a year designing at Halston), Bibhu spent a decade honing his knack for strong tailoring balanced with wearable, expressive design.
In January 2010, Bibhu was a finalist in the Women’s Apparel 2010 rising star award presented by the fashion group International. In May 2010 he received the young innovator award from the national arts club, and in June 2010 he became a member of the Council of fashion designers of America. In January 2011, Bibhu received the Ecco Domani fashion foundation award.
Bibhu Mohapatra signed his first licensing deal in 2014 for a namesake fur collection with BC International.
Why I rented it: It's a flattering, super versatile dress that I just had to try because I love the silhouette.
How I styled it: I wore it alone and also threw on an old leather jacket from NYC, Nicholas Kirkwood Block-Heeled sandals, and the Chanel 19. For work, I wore it on top of a Carven Blouse from years ago, J. Crew flats, and carried the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour.
I got dad out of the house and took him to Ryleigh's Oyster for happy hour and he was happy!
Size and fit: This polyurethane (don't stand too close to a fire pit) midi dress is crafted with a square neckline, wide shoulder straps, back zip closure, contrast stitching, and back vent. I got a medium and the fit was true to size.
Condition: Great!
Honest review: I really liked this dress. It's simplistically chic, but since it's essentially made of plastic, it stretched out pretty quickly. Real leather stretches out too, so what can you do? Maybe Glad trash bags will be a thing in 2025.
Mr. HGL is taking a nap on the floor.
DID THEY DELIVER?
- What items were most helpful and versatile to own this week to ensure I got the most out of my rental and completed the look I craved? I got equal amount of wear out of all these pieces, but the Nina Ricci was my fave!
- Did they meet or exceed expectations? They met expectations!
- What’s the return process like? Simple! Just place your items in the pre-paid garment bag, slip in the return label, and send it back via UPS. You can also drop it off at one of their exclusive drop-off points in some of the major cities.
FINAL THOUGHTS
While I didn't get a replacement item this round for the ridiculously stretched out Herve Leger dress, they redeemed themselves and I have 6 RTR pieces in my closet right now.
And thanks for all your comments. After what I went through with my criminal ex, I threw that guy in the trash. Once a guy starts to control what you wear and then blames you for their own shortcomings, it becomes a serious red flag.
I know we often talk about physical abuse and the red flags that appear beforehand, but someone who tries to control what you wear, who you associate with, and what you look like will eventually try to control every single aspect of your life. And pay special attention to future faking, which is another manipulation tactic. During the courtship or very early in the relationship they'll start making plans with you for the future: We're going to the Amalfi Coast next summer! I want you to take me to London in the fall so you can show me around! We're going to adopt a baby! I see myself living in Florida with you! When we get married, we'll have a huge pool, a wrap-around porch, and tons of space for all the bunnies!
They fake a future to make you feel like they're totally invested in you and see a future together, but it's a lie to trap you, make you all gooey inside, and give up your defenses and independence. Future faking was also present.
Luckily, I've read all the self-help books, watched all the YouTube videos, listened to audiobooks, podcasts, and more, just so I can spot the red flags before it becomes dangerous. I already had some serious doubts, but once that conversation took place, I blocked him.
You know what? ZZ Top was right: every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp-dressed man (and not a schlub like that situation). Thank you, next!
VALUE BREAKDOWN: The 10 Items a Month membership costs $104/month and goes up to $152/month after the first 3 months) and so far, I've received styles with a retail value of $161,855.
Do you subscribe to Rent the Runway? Let us know what you think down below!
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