John Lewis & Partners has stepped up its game in the rental market, unveiling the most extensive collection of menswear brands available for rent on the high street, building on the triumph of its womenswear rental service. Collaborating with HURR, a renowned rental and resale platform, the retailer aims to revolutionize the way men approach occasionwear, making luxury accessible without the commitment of ownership.
Kicking off with prices as low as £40 for a four-day rental, the curated selection encompasses everything from sophisticated dinner jackets to tailored trousers, catering to sizes ranging from 34 to 46. This initiative aims to provide a cost-effective yet stylish solution for those special events where a one-time outfit is all that's needed.
According to John Lewis, customers can seamlessly navigate the online platform, choosing rental durations of 4, 8, 16, or 30 days, with the option of next-day delivery for those eleventh-hour wardrobe emergencies. Once the outfit has served its purpose, a hassle-free return process awaits, with pre-paid postage labels included in the package. HURR takes care of the dry cleaning, ensuring the garments are pristine and ready for their next adventure.
Among the array of brands available for rent, fashion aficionados can expect to find esteemed labels such as Boss Tailoring and Charles Tyrwhitt, alongside emerging favourites like Hay Life. The decision to delve into menswear rental was spurred by consumer demand, with searches for "mens rental" consistently ranking among the top 30 search terms on the John Lewis website for the past 18 months.
With the global menswear rental industry projected to reach £2.36 billion by 2027, John Lewis is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of this burgeoning trend. Kathleen Mitchell, the company's commercial director, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, highlighting the unique advantage of offering a diverse range of brands and styles for rent, from everyday suits to premium attire.
"We're thrilled to provide a solution for those impromptu dinner parties or race day events," Mitchell remarked. "This marks just the beginning of menswear rental, and we're eager to witness its evolution and growth."
This latest move follows John Lewis's successful foray into womenswear rental in 2022, which has witnessed a notable surge in both membership and rental activity. With a 52% increase in members and a 40% rise in rentals year on year, the retailer's commitment to sustainable fashion and innovative shopping experiences continues to resonate with consumers, paving the way for a more accessible and eco-conscious approach to dressing up.
