Rent Luxury by Nichola Portelli

Ever dreamt of being able to carry around that favourite bag which costs double as much as you earn a month, and while scrolling through the latest collections with excitement, it ends up in a bitter-sweet feeling as you think that you cannot afford such luxury goods? If those were your thoughts and feelings so far, you can soon enough think better and feel better! This luxury handbag and accessories rental startup is one to watch!

What is Rent Luxury?

Rent Luxury is a subscription-based luxury rental service, offering a sustainable alternative to fast fashion, by providing access to the most coveted designer pieces at a fraction of their retail price. Members of the Rent Luxury community will be able to gain access to their wish list wardrobe without the financial commitment entailed

Why Rent Luxury?

The fashion industry is responsible for producing around 9% of global CO2 emissions[1], which amounts to an average of 4.5 billion tonnes annually[2]. Furthermore, the industry consumes 79 trillion litres of water per annum, while producing a staggering 92 million tonnes of textile waste per year2. As shocking as these figures may seem, they have only been exacerbated by the rise of fast fashion, which is characterised by the consumption of large quantities of cheap items, discarded after brief use.

Recently, the concept of ‘circularity’ has been proposed as one of the main means of combatting today’s unsustainable consumption patterns; as it is based on the notion of high-quality items being re-used for a long period of time. Thus, given the durability and longevity of luxury items, Rent Luxury is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront of the circular movement, as each item purchased will be re-used and re-loved by its members.

How does it work?

Fashionistas can subscribe to become members of the Rent Luxury community by pre-paying a monthly or quarterly subscription fee, which will provide access to the most ostentatious pieces at a modest price. Items including Louis Vuitton, Jacquemus, Saint Laurent and Gucci handbags, together with Chanel and Hermes jewellery are only a few of the items which can then be rented out by purchasing a rental token. Members of this community will be able to hit refresh on their wardrobe every week, by swapping out their rental for the next best thing!

Nichola Portelli

The founder is a 23-year-old accountant, equally obsessed with the luxury fashion world as she is with safeguarding the environment. Similar business models overseas are growing exponentially, contributing to the positive outlook held by Nichola for the future of Rent Luxury. Shoppers will be able to make use of the service shortly, so keep an eye on Rent Luxury’s social media accounts for the latest updates!