Nuuly Review: A Fresh Approach to Fashion Rental
In today’s fast-paced world of fashion, staying on trend can be both expensive and environmentally taxing. Enter Nuuly, a clothing rental subscription service that aims to revolutionize the way we approach our wardrobes. As part of the URBN family of companies, which includes popular brands like Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie, Nuuly offers a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative to traditional shopping. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what Nuuly has to offer, how it works, and whether it’s worth trying for fashion-forward individuals looking to refresh their style without breaking the bank or contributing to fast fashion waste.
What is Nuuly?
Nuuly is a monthly clothing rental subscription service that allows members to borrow up to six items per month for a flat fee of $98. With access to over 150 brands, including exclusive pieces from Anthropologie and Free People, Nuuly provides a diverse range of styles to suit various tastes and occasions.
| Feature | Details |
| Monthly Cost | $98 |
| Items per Month | 6 (option to add 2 more at $18 each) |
| Brands Available | 150+ including Anthropologie, Free People, Urban Outfitters |
| Size Range | 00-40W, XXS-4X |
| Shipping | Free both ways |
| Return Policy | No late fees, flexible return window |
| Purchasing Option | Yes, at discounted prices (typically 20-50% off retail) |
| Cleaning/Maintenance | Included in subscription |
| Maternity Options | Yes |
| Signup Process | Easy online signup, no stylist required |
| Pause/Cancel Anytime | Yes |
| Rental Period | One month |
| Best For | Trend-setters, special occasion dressers, sustainable fashion enthusiasts |
| Not Ideal For | Those who prefer owning all clothing, need last-minute changes |
| Sustainability Features | Reusable garment bags, energy-efficient cleaning, extends clothing lifespan |
| Available Locations | United States only |
Key Features
- Monthly subscription model
- Access to 150+ brands
- 6 items per month (with option to add more)
- Ability to purchase rented items at a discount
- Free shipping and returns
- No late fees or damage fees
How Nuuly Works
Signing Up
Getting started with Nuuly is straightforward:
- Create an account on Nuuly.com
- Build your style profile
- Browse the collection and select your first 6 items
- Confirm your order and wait for your Nuuly to arrive
The Rental Process
Once you receive your Nuuly package:
- Wear and enjoy your rented items for the month
- Return items in the provided reusable bag by your billing date
- Keep any items you love by purchasing them at a discount
- Select new items for your next Nuuly
Returning and Exchanging
Nuuly makes returns hassle-free:
- Use the prepaid shipping label included with your order
- Drop off the package at any UPS location
- No need to clean items before returning – Nuuly handles all cleaning and repairs
Nuuly’s Clothing Collection
Brand Variety
Nuuly’s extensive collection includes:
- Anthropologie exclusives
- Free People favorites
- Urban Outfitters staples
- Designer labels like Anna Sui and For Love & Lemons
- Up-and-coming sustainable brands
Style Range
From casual everyday wear to special occasion outfits, Nuuly offers:
- Trendy dresses
- Comfortable loungewear
- Professional office attire
- Statement pieces and accessories
- Maternity options
Pricing and Value
At $98 per month for 6 items, Nuuly breaks down to approximately $16 per item. This can represent significant savings, especially when renting higher-end pieces that would normally cost hundreds of dollars to purchase.
Additional Costs
- Extra items can be added for $18 each (up to 2 additional pieces)
- Purchasing rented items comes at a discounted price, typically 20-50% off retail
Pros and Cons of Nuuly
Pros
- Affordable access to designer and high-end clothing
- Ability to experiment with different styles risk-free
- Environmentally friendly alternative to fast fashion
- No cleaning or maintenance required
- Option to purchase favorite items at a discount
- Free shipping and returns
- No late fees or damage fees
Cons
- Limited to 6 items per month (unless paying extra)
- Not all sizes may be available for every item
- Popular items may be out of stock
- Cannot exchange items mid-month if they don’t fit
- Only available in the United States
User Experience and Customer Feedback
Ease of Use
Nuuly’s website and app are user-friendly, making it easy to browse, select, and manage your rentals. The search function allows filtering by size, color, occasion, and more, streamlining the selection process.
Customer Reviews
Overall, customer feedback for Nuuly has been positive. Many users appreciate:
- The quality and variety of clothing options
- The opportunity to try new styles without commitment
- The convenience of the rental process
Some common criticisms include:
- Occasional sizing inconsistencies
- Disappointment when popular items are unavailable
- Desire for more frequent addition of new styles
Sustainability Efforts
Nuuly stands out for its commitment to sustainability:
- Use of reusable garment bags, eliminating single-use plastic
- Energy-efficient cleaning processes
- Extending the lifespan of clothing through rentals and repairs
- Partnering with sustainable brands
Comparison to Other Rental Services
While Nuuly faces competition from services like Rent the Runway and Stitch Fix, it distinguishes itself through:
- A more affordable monthly fee
- Access to exclusive URBN brand items
- A simpler, more straightforward rental model
Is Nuuly Worth It?
Nuuly can be an excellent value for those who:
- Love trying new styles frequently
- Want access to designer clothing without the high price tag
- Are conscious of their environmental impact
- Need variety for special events or changing seasons
However, it may not be ideal for those who:
- Prefer owning all their clothing
- Have a very specific or consistent style
- Require last-minute outfit changes
Tips for Maximizing Your Nuuly Subscription
- Plan your rentals around upcoming events or seasons
- Mix statement pieces with versatile basics
- Take advantage of the option to purchase favorite items
- Leave reviews to help other users and improve your future recommendations
- Start your subscription at the beginning of the month to maximize wear time
Conclusion
Nuuly offers a fresh and sustainable approach to fashion that aligns well with modern lifestyles. By providing access to a wide range of high-quality clothing at an affordable price point, it allows fashion enthusiasts to experiment with their style while reducing their environmental impact.
While there are some limitations, such as item availability and the fixed monthly rental period, the pros generally outweigh the cons for those looking to diversify their wardrobe without the commitment of purchasing. The added benefits of hassle-free maintenance, free shipping, and the option to purchase items at a discount make Nuuly an attractive option in the clothing rental market.
For anyone curious about trying a clothing rental service or looking to refresh their style sustainably, Nuuly is definitely worth considering. It offers a low-risk way to explore new fashion horizons and could potentially transform the way you approach your wardrobe.
Remember, fashion should be fun and expressive – and Nuuly provides a platform to do just that without the guilt of overconsumption or the burden of a cluttered closet. Why not give it a try and see how it can elevate your style game?
