Surprisingly, it's neither. While the rest of us are busy complaining about having "nothing to wear," a quiet yet powerful fashion movement has been gaining momentum across India — one that challenges fast fashion, champions sustainability, and still serves jaw-dropping looks. If you haven’t guessed it yet, welcome to the world of fashion rentals.
Gone are the days when borrowing clothes was seen as a desperate last-minute solution. From glamorous red carpet appearances to dreamy destination weddings, fashion rentals are no longer reserved for stylists and celebrities. More everyday Indians are embracing the idea of renting rather than buying — and no, it’s not just about saving money. In an age overrun by fast fashion and climate anxiety, it's about saving the planet too.
Fast Fashion Fatigue and the Rise of Rentals
The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world, with millions of tons of textile waste dumped into landfills each year. The fast fashion model — where trends shift by the week and wardrobes are constantly expected to be updated — is not only financially draining, but also devastating for the environment. Fashion rentals offer a way out: access to high-quality, trend-forward clothing without the guilt of overconsumption.
And it's not just Gen Z that's catching on to the idea. While younger generations have been more open to experimenting with the sharing economy, older generations are beginning to reconsider their hesitations too. Think about it: we now stay in strangers’ homes via Airbnb, share cars with strangers through app cabs, and borrow digital books with a single click. If we've normalized all that, then why does renting clothes still feel like a taboo?
Why Rent When You Can Own?
Simple: because ownership is overrated when the item in question will be worn once — maybe twice at best — and then left to gather dust. The cost of buying a new outfit for every occasion adds up fast, especially in a country like India where social events are frequent and dressing up is practically a cultural expectation. Renting lets you enjoy the thrill of wearing something new, trendy, and often designer — without the long-term commitment or environmental cost.
Whether it’s a shimmering lehenga for a wedding, a tuxedo for a formal dinner, or a statement gown for a party, rental fashion makes high-end looks accessible and eco-friendly. And to help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the most reliable, fashion-forward rental platforms in India:
Where to Rent Your Outfits From
1. Flyrobe
With both online and offline access, Flyrobe delivers stylish options across India. It offers in-store trials and a vast collection ranging from ethnic wear to western outfits. Whether you need a designer lehenga for a sangeet or a sleek gown for a cocktail event, Flyrobe ensures quality and hygiene checks, PAN-India delivery, and hassle-free returns.
2. Rent An Attire
Based in Pune, Rent An Attire is a go-to for eco-conscious brides and their entourages. Their collection spans various designers, styles, and price points, catering to diverse tastes and occasions. In-house trials are available in Pune, but their online services make it accessible for everyone looking to slay sustainably.
3. Date The Ramp
Boasting India’s largest designer collection, Date The Ramp is a haven for luxury lovers. From traditional ensembles to chic co-ords, clutches, and jewellery, their offerings cater to both large metros and smaller cities like Nagpur, Kochi, and Mysore. It’s an ideal pick for anyone who wants to go all out — responsibly.
4. Candidmen
Men, we hear you. Candidmen gives Indian menswear the attention it deserves with an exclusive focus on sherwanis, tuxedos, bandhgalas, and more. Whether it’s a wedding or a formal event, Candidmen makes it easy for men to dress sharply without spending a fortune. It's fashionable, functional, and finally inclusive.
5. TheStylease
Going beyond traditional rentals, TheStylease introduces a unique concept: Rent for a Cause. Selected outfits contribute to NGOs that provide basic clothing to those in need. It’s fashion that gives back — making it possible to look good, feel good, and do good, all in one go.
From Trendy to Transformative: What Fashion Rentals Really Mean
What began as a budget hack has now become a bold statement — a lifestyle that signals environmental awareness, style savvy, and a rejection of throwaway fashion culture. Renting clothes isn't about settling for less; it's about choosing better. Better for your wallet, better for your wardrobe, and better for the world.
And let’s not forget: rental platforms are no longer limited to a handful of styles or sizes. Today’s services are diverse, inclusive, and fashion-forward — offering everything from plus-size ethnic wear to gender-neutral styles, formal wear, and even curated accessories.
The Road Ahead: Normalizing Rented Fashion
As India inches closer to a greener future, embracing clothing rentals could be one of the most practical steps in reducing our fashion footprint. But it will take a shift in mindset — one that removes the stigma around “used” clothing and redefines it as “shared style.”
So the next time you’re tempted to splurge on an expensive outfit for a one-time occasion, take a moment. Ask yourself: Do I need to own this? Or can I rent, rock, return — and still look fabulous? Chances are, the latter will not only look just as good, but feel even better.