I used to think clothing rental wasn’t for me. Not because I was opposed to pre-worn clothing—far from it. I’ve always loved vintage shopping and scouring secondhand racks for hidden treasures. My hesitation came from the idea of paying a monthly fee for pieces I’d eventually have to send back. Why spend money on something I couldn’t keep?
That mindset shifted dramatically last December when I took a trip to London with my sister. Between airfare, Airbnbs, and the usual travel expenses, my budget for new outfits was practically nonexistent. Still, I wanted some fresh sweaters and festive pieces to wear around the city without blowing through my savings. That’s when I discovered Nuuly, the subscription service that completely changed how I think about my wardrobe.
My First Experience With Nuuly
Ahead of the trip, I signed up for Nuuly’s monthly subscription. For $98, I was able to pick six pieces from brands I already loved—think Free People, Anthropologie, Damson Madder, Farm Rio, Cynthia Rowley, and more. I chose a mix of cozy sweaters, a plaid skirt I ended up falling in love with (and keeping), and a few long-sleeve tops perfect for layering.
Here’s what blew me away: if I had purchased all six items outright, the total would have been close to $850. Instead, I got to wear everything for under $100, leaving me plenty of wiggle room for souvenirs, Christmas markets, and endless cups of mulled wine. I felt stylish and refreshed without the dreaded post-trip credit card shock.
Why Nuuly Works for Me
Since that first experience, I’ve started using Nuuly on and off whenever I want a wardrobe refresh without the financial guilt. It’s perfect for seasonal shifts, special occasions, or just breaking out of a style rut. Some months, I skip the subscription altogether. Other months, I dive in and play dress-up with silhouettes and prints I might not commit to buying.
What I love most is the balance between flexibility and variety. The service features a constantly updated mix of labels—everything from the whimsical prints of Farm Rio to the classic polish of Anthropologie—and it feels like a curated version of the shopping I’d be doing anyway. Only now, I don’t have to stress about the cost or the commitment.
The Perks Beyond Renting
Nuuly isn’t just about renting, either. Their Nuuly Resale platform is one of my favorite hidden gems for shopping secondhand. Past rental pieces from Free People, Anthropologie, and Urban Outfitters often end up listed there at deeply discounted prices.
Case in point: I scored a $215 Seventy + Mochi denim jumpsuit for $30 and my all-time favorite find—a Ruby + Ed zebra-print faux fur coat originally priced at $320, which I snagged for just $40. It’s the kind of shopping thrill that makes you want to text everyone you know about the deal you just scored.
Plus, I love that there’s a sustainability angle. Renting clothes (and buying them secondhand) extends the life of each piece, making fashion feel less disposable. It’s a win for my closet and the planet.
What to Know Before Signing Up
If you’re curious about trying Nuuly, here are a few things I’ve learned:
- The $98 monthly fee covers six items. You can swap them out month to month or keep renting them for as long as you’d like.
- You can buy what you love. If you fall for something in your box, Nuuly gives you the option to purchase it—often at a discounted price.
- Shipping and returns are easy. Everything comes in a reusable garment bag with a prepaid label. No dry cleaning required.
- It’s flexible. You don’t have to commit every month. I use it seasonally or whenever my closet needs a reset.
My Latest Picks
This summer, my Nuuly box included a breezy midi dress perfect for late-summer dinners, a bold Farm Rio blouse that instantly brightens up jeans, and a Free People sweater tank that I’ve been wearing nonstop. Each piece gave me that “new clothes” spark without draining my budget—or cluttering my closet long-term.
Final Thoughts
Nuuly has completely redefined how I approach shopping. It gives me the thrill of experimenting with new styles, the joy of scoring great deals, and the practicality of keeping my wardrobe (and spending) in check. For someone who never thought they’d be into clothing rental, I’m officially converted.
Because sometimes, the best souvenir from a trip—or from everyday life—isn’t something you buy. It’s the way you feel when you put on an outfit that makes you look and feel your best. And for me, Nuuly makes that possible without compromise.
