Designer-24 is now offering fashionistas the opportunity to rent three pre-loved dresses at a bargain price. The holiday promotion, which runs through the New Year holiday, costs Dh1,500, for which you can borrow three dresses for two weeks.
The online hire service, which launched this year, offers a range of outfits by leading labels and brands, including Marchesa, Elie Saab and Oscar de la Renta. Each week, new dresses are added, so there is a constant supply of classic and new-season pieces.
Never having acquired a taste for pre-loved designer wear, I approached the trial with some reservation. Will they look second-hand? Will the fastenings be intact? Will there be stains? My concerns were put to rest right away: Designer-24 takes on the responsibility of dry-cleaning the dresses each time they are worn.
My dresses were delivered by courier at the agreed time, and arrived freshly ironed in garment bags. In terms of size, customers are allowed to choose two sizes of each dress that they order, just in case one doesn’t fit and a backup is needed.
Of the ones I ordered, the first, a gorgeous Holly Fulton gown with floral embroidery, cost Dh710 to rent. Breathable and easy to move in, it is a great option for a daytime wedding or garden party. There were a few signs of natural wear and tear, such as slightly loose threads on the cuffs – but these were small things that are found on dresses in stores, too. I had requested UK sizes 8 and 10, and the 8 fit just fine. The shoulders were a bit loose, but it worked with the overall princess effect of the silhouette.
Next up was a blue-lace gown by Tadashi Shoji. I requested US sizes 4 and 6, and the 4 fit like a glove – in a good way – except for a belted bow that was slightly loose around the waist. Still, it felt natural and comfortable, and was an absolute bargain at Dh230.
The last piece – a black-lace Alice by Temperley jumpsuit for Dh400 – was my favourite, for being wearable and versatile. UK size 8 fit perfectly.
I was thrilled with my gorgeous rentals. Not only does the special promotion give customers a hefty discount – to have three designer dresses in your wardrobe for two weeks for Dh1,500 is an absolute steal – it also allows you time to use the outfits for your winter travels without rushing to return them.
• For more details and to register, visit www.designer-24.com
hlodi@thenational.ae
