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Lately, I’ve been telling my friends the same thing whenever we get on the topic of clothes: I hate my closet. It’s true, I do. I’ve done a lot of spring cleaning, so my wardrobe feels extra empty and dull. If you find yourself in the same sartorial slump as me, what better way to level up your closet than with Rent the Runway’s spring work collection?
As a shopping editor, it’s my job to sift through brands’ offerings, pick out my favorite garments, and share them with readers. That’s exactly what I did for Rent the Runway’s latest spring collection, which includes workwear options that I instantly fell in love with (a rare occurrence, might I add). First, the clothing rental platform promotes matching sets, structured tops, and tailored shorts as the top office fashion trends you should try this spring. I wholeheartedly agree with all three of these and think they’re exactly what my wardrobe is missing.
On top of trendy options, Rent the Runway carries over 750 designers and brands, including Proenza Schouler, Veronica Beard, Althuzarra, Marni, and more. The offerings are also constantly refreshing and expanding each week so that you don’t miss out on pieces tailormade for a specific season or buzzy trend.
But let’s get back to Rent the Runway itself, how it works, and why it’s worth your money.
How does Rent the Runway work?
The beauty of Rent the Runway is that there are two ways you can utilize the clothing rental service. If you have a wedding or special occasion and aren’t necessarily looking to sign up for a subscription, Rent the Runway offers a one-time rental option. All you have to do is place a one-time reserve rental up to 60 days before your event. This plan starts at $30 for a four- or eight-day rental. The cherry on top? Rent the Runway sends two sizes of the garment you select to ensure you get the right fit.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to receive continuous Rent the Runway packages that contain multiple garments, join the service’s existing 100,000 subscribers and sign up for a subscription. You can choose between five-, 10-, and 15-item plans, starting at $89 for the first month and $94 for every month after that. How long do you get to keep the clothes? For as long as you want until you decide you’re ready to swap pieces for your next shipment. Let’s say you fall in love with one of the pieces in your box. Rent the Runway lets you keep and buy it at a reasonable price.
Not to mention, you can pause or cancel your Rent the Runway subscription at any point in time. However, you probably won’t want to do either once you open your first box and see just how convenient and cost-saving this service can be. Plus, the shipments get delivered straight to your door in one to three business days.
How much is Rent the Runway?
The smallest subscription is five items per month for $89 for your first month and $94 for every month after that. The five-items-per-month plan gives you five items at a time, one shipment per month, and a limited subscription closet (access to over 9,000 styles with a retail value of up to $350). The next subscription gives you 10 items per month for $99 for your first month and $144 for every month after that. The 10-item-per-month plan gives you five items at a time, two shipments per month, and a full subscription closet (access to over 10,000 styles with a retail value of up to $3,000). Lastly, the 20-item-per-month subscription costs $169 for your first month and $235 for every month after that. This plan gives you five shipments at a time, four shipments per month, and a full closet subscription (access to over 10,000 styles with a retail value of up to $3,000).
Rent the Runway recommends the 10-piece plan, and I can certainly understand why. Receiving two boxes ensures that your picks stay fresh throughout the month. Wear the first five styles in the first half of the month and then switch things up in the second half of the month with your next five styles. I’m the type of person who always needs options, so if it were up to me, I’d opt for the subscription that sends you 10 items each month.
What to shop from Rent the Runway’s spring work collection
Matching Sets
Vests are a spring and summer must-try trend, and while a lot of styles are cropped, I love how the Giovanni Vest is longer and more loose-fitting. Pair this matching set with Sambas and sunnies for a chic, off-duty model ‘fit.
The great part about matching sets is that you can also wear each piece separtely and mix and match it with other styles in your closet. Everyone should have a go-to pair of gray trousers like these ones.
The structured shoulders and cinched waist on this linen jacket deserve a round of applause, and I think power suits might have to take some notes from this matching set.
When temps are too high for a pair of pants, try a longer pair of shorts (if your workplace allows them). If styled correctly, they can look super sophisticated. These pleated shorts from Dunst are made from a cotton-linen fabric, so you know you won’t be sweating buckets during your commute.
I’ve been gravitating towards midi and maxi length skirts lately, so I just love where this one crops as well as its a-line cut. I could also see it transitioning well into fall when paired with some knee-high boots and a sweater.
I don’t usually wear colors, but my eyes couldn’t look away from this gorgeous green shirt and skirt set from Sea New York. Call me smitten because I’m obsessed with its longer sleeves and front bow details.
Structured Tops
I’d be pressed to find a single pant, skirt, or short that wouldn’t look amazing with this white Modern Citizen top. It drapes so beautifully and I can never say no to a high neckline.
I’m not a huge fan of striped clothing, but Staud’s Sawyer Top might’ve just converted me. I’m a sucker for asymmetrical hems and the one on this garment is perfection with the side tie detail.
At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the Charlotte Top. But I realized it would contrast baggy trousers so well. I could also see myself wearing it with a pair of long jorts for a more casual look.
Tanya Taylor’s Robin Top is soooooo Shiv Roy-coded. The slightly exaggerated shoulders? The knotted waist detail? This one’s a keeper, and hear me out, it would look so elegant with a pair of short culottes.
Tailored Shorts
If you peek into my closet, you’ll know I’ve been hooked on long shorts. They’re the perfect length for work and protecting your legs from greasy subway seats. TBH, I think these cuffed shorts might be my favorite item in this list.
Make shorts office-appropriate by going with ones that are long and tailored. This pair checks off both boxes and pull off a structured yet relaxed fit. Go complete boss lady mode by matching these shorts with a bold, oversized blazer and kitten heels.
