Why not rent clothing? We already rent homes, cars and movies. Renting clothes is less expensive and involves less commitment. Budget fashionists can appreciate this.
Clothing Rental: Pros and Cons
Le Tote and Haverdash are the two major players in the box subscription rental market. Let’s discuss why renting clothes is a good idea before I compare these two services.
You can easily keep track of your clothing costs by renting. Both Haverdash & Le Tote charge a monthly flat fee. In exchange, you get a certain number of clothes that you can use as much as you want. You send the pieces back when you are done with them and you wait for your next shipment. Shipping is included both ways in your monthly charge. This easy-going shirt dress by Haverdash is my favorite!
If you decide to purchase one of the items, there is no extra charge. Your monthly fee could be all you spend on clothing if you are happy with the service you receive. It’s simple to budget for that, right?
Renting prevents your closet from becoming overcrowded. I’m assuming you love clothing, and you probably do. But you may have a problem with having too many clothes. Renting allows you to have new clothes that don’t take over your drawer.
Renting will satisfy your “new” desire. We overspend when we are bored with the clothes that we have. This can lead you to buy things that you don’t need or want.
Renting clothes allows you to have access to “new” clothing on a regular basis, which reduces the need to buy new clothes every weekend.
Clothing Rental: Cons and Benefits
Renting might not satisfy your shopping urge. Renting may not appeal to you if you love the experience of shopping in-store, with the dressing rooms stuffed full of clothes, the hunt for clearance racks, etc. You can only choose between Haverdash or Le Tote online. You can browse, filter, and click, but you cannot try on anything, take a selfie, or touch the items.
You might be disappointed if you rent. It can be tempting to use a rental subscription to buy clothes for special events. It can be risky.
Imagine you choose a dress for a brunch on Saturday with your inlaws. When you open the package on Friday night, you discover that the dress does not fit. You rush to the mall hoping to find something better. This is a sure-fire way to overspend.
Haverdash vs. Le Tote
The main event is now upon us. Haverdash, and Le Tote are the two major players in the daily wear rental market. These are some of the similarities:
- Both will send you a selection of clothing that you may wear for as long as you wish.
- You can send all the pieces back together when you are done with them and you will receive your next shipment.
- Both offer you the chance to purchase any rental piece at a discounted price.
What are the differences between Le Tote and Haverdash? The list is much longer. Let’s begin with the price.
Pricing plans
I don’t tend to wear crop tops very often, but I do like to rent items that are just a little outside of my comfort zone.
Haverdash provides unlimited shipments of three garments per box at $59 per monthly. Le Tote provides one shipment per month with five garments, three accessories and a price of $79 for each.
Haverdash has the advantage here, with a lower monthly fee and unlimited shipments. Le Tote used to offer unlimited shipments at $79 per month. But that’s no longer the case. This change has a significant impact on Le Tote’s value proposition.
Timing
Haverdash offers a “Return Notify”, which expedites your next shipment. When you let them know that you are returning a box, they will start on the next one. This allows you to maximize your $59 monthly investment by renting clothes more quickly.
The service actually got worse during the time I was a Le Tote customer. This is a major disadvantage. With the limit of only one shipment per calendar month, it is clear that speed was not a priority.
Shopping Process
Haverdash customers browse through the online catalog to select at least eight items for their “virtual wardrobe”. Three of the eight items you chose will be sent to you. The other five are stored in your virtual wardrobe for future shipments. You can choose your favorites and Haverdash will send them to you in order of priority. Another look at the green jacket
Le Tote offers you two shopping options. Once you complete a style and sizing questionnaire, Le Tote selects garments for you. When your box is complete, you will receive a notification. However, you can choose to change the items they have selected. You can choose the clothing and accessories yourself, so you know what you are getting.
Le Tote is a little more flexible in terms of shopping, as you can choose each item or Le Tote will surprise you by selecting it for you. Haverdash does not auto-select anything. You don’t even know which three pieces you’re getting until the shipment leaves the door.
Sizing
Haverdash offers sizing charts based on the size you normally wear with well-known brands.
Le Tote will collect your measurements and suggest a size for every garment that you choose.
I’m going with a tie in terms of sizing. I’ve never had any problems with the fit of either Haverdash nor Le Tote. Le Tote’s sizing suggestions have proven to be accurate. But I like that Haverdash does not ask me a lot of questions before starting my subscription.
Select
Haverdash, as well as Le Tote, offer a wide range of products, such a coats, trousers, skirts dresses, tops , and even workout clothing. Both have new arrivals regularly. This faux suede dress has just been added to my virtual Haverdash closet!
Le Tote’s collection did get a bit stale for me after many years as a subscriber. When I switched over to Haverdash I received a brand new catalog. It was so refreshing!
And the Winner is…
Right now, I’m a true Haverdash fan. With the lower monthly cost and unlimited shipping, I can wear a variety of different clothes for just $59. The more I rent clothing, the less money I spend on buying things I don’t need.
Sign up for Haverdash by clicking here.
Le Tote Review : For more information, please see this Le Tote Review .
Haverdash Power Tips
Here are some ways you can make the most out of your Haverdash subscription.
When searching for clothes to add to your virtual wardrobe, use the size filter. You’ll end up seeing (and perhaps falling in love with!) garments that don’t come in your size. It’s a pain.
Use the Return Notify function. Let Haverdash Know when you are about to return a box.
Prioritize your favorite pieces. You can’t specify the exact pieces for every shipment, but you can “prioritize”. This feature will help you get the most adorable clothes as quickly as possible. This cute fringe sweater was my first priority because I am running out of sweaters and it has suddenly gotten cold in Missouri!
Shop often for your virtual wardrobe. Eight pieces are required in your virtual wardrobe to trigger a delivery. Keep your closet full by “shopping” Haverdash every week.
Tell your friends about Haverdash. You both receive a $30 credit when you refer a friend.
Try out new styles. Renting is a great way to expand your style horizons. Try new things and step outside of your comfort zone!
Haverdash provided me with a free trial subscription to test the service and I wrote this review.