{FASHION NEWS} Rent the Runway Launches RTR+!

I've had to keep my lips sealed for the last couple of months (as an a compulsive over-sharer, that's a lot), but I'm so excited to finally be able to share that Rent the Runway has finally launched their plus-size selection - with 40 styles from designers like Theia, Badgley Mischka, Carmen Marc Valvo, ML Monique Lhullier, and more. Continue to learn more about RTR+, watch the fun video I made with them, and enter a giveaway for a free dress rental!! 

I've always applauded the ingenuity behind Rent the Runway. The company was founded by Jenn Hyman and Jenny Fleiss, who met at Harvard Business School. Neither had fashion industry backgrounds, but they had a common interest and goal in throwing the fashion world for a loop and democratizing fashion - and making those Cinderella moments that they and their friends dreamed about, in designer dresses and garments that they could only fawn over from the Runway, a reality. Since the birth of Rent the Runway, the two have had a goal of being able to serve all women - not just those that fit into the 0-12 category, but were surprised to find that design houses would laugh in their faces when they requested a full size run. Now, having grown and expanded their reach as a company, Rent the Runway holds the cards - and with a whole lot of leverage in their favor, RTR+ was born.

If you're not familiar with Rent the Runway, it's a service where you can rent garments for up to 90% off of retail. The selection is made up of incredibly covetable designer frocks (with retail price tags from $199 to $1200+), making formal and statement dressing more accessible for those special occasions in our lives - important dates, interviews, fashion week events, presentations... weddings!!! To complete the look, RTR also offers some stunning accessories - like that Kate Spade maribou clutch in the video above, and Dannijo jewelry.

The way it works is that you select your choice garment, and you get a second back up size at no additional charge. This is perfect, especially for us gals who don't always have the luxury of trying clothes on in-stores, especially when we're in a time crunch and are picking up an outfit for a special occasion. And if you're feeling a bit undecided, you can rent a second look for an additional $25. A lightbulb just went off in my head: hello vacation wardrobes! If you're in NYC, you can also book an appointment at their showroom to try on as many looks as your heart desires - and it's all included in the price of your rental. Your rentals even come with a pre-paid return envelope - making shipping a seamless and easy process.

Finally, GIVEAWAY time. 

I've asked Rent the Runway to let me pass my free dress rental on to one of you! Head over to RTR+ and comment below with your favorite style to be entered for a free dress rental. The winner will be chosen at random, but be sure to include your email!! 

Winner will be announced on 9/25.
Congrats to commenter "CTS"! You're the winner!

I worked with Rent the Runway on creating their launch video and hosting their launch event in NYC last night, but this post is entirely my own. I'm genuinely thrilled about this launch and think it's the beginning of something HUGE - and can't wait to watch RTR+ grow!