Clothing rentals grow as prices and tariffs rise

Two years after swearing off new clothes, Minnesota pharmacist and creator Lydia Patel relies on rental services to dress for life’s occasional events, saving money and skipping laundry. She’s part of a growing shift as apparel prices climb and tariffs bite, pushing shoppers toward subscriptions from companies like Nuuly and Rent the Runway. The $2.6 billion rental market is expanding but squeezed by import costs and inventory shortages, especially during the holidays. Platforms are letting users pause plans, adding styles, and urging early reservations; Patel plans to rent festive looks now and send them back in January.