I’ve often said, “I’m too busy working to go shopping for new clothes.” And yet, with so much going on, I find myself needing more versatile outfits than ever! 😩
Time and convenience are everything, and without extra hours in the day to go to my favorite stores or scroll through brands online, I needed another option to enliven my closet. Enter Armoire, an online clothing rental service where in-house stylists and machine learning curates personalized outfits or “closets" to choose from.
After hearing about it from friends and colleagues, I was curious—and admittedly, a little skeptical—to see what all the hype was about.
Here’s how it went:
Getting started couldn’t be more simple
I’ll admit that I’ve never used a clothing rental service before, and I find online shopping to be hit-and-miss regarding size, quality, and value. I immediately felt different about Armoire.
For starters, their five-minute style quiz pinpoints your preferences to filter through their collection of over 75K high-end styles from hundreds of top designers. After identifying my vibe as bohemian, classic, and edgy (with sub-preferences for avant-garde and sporty), I sifted through a collection of brands and chose which I liked most.
Then came the sizing section, with standard and plus options and the ability to adjust your size anytime. I appreciate that we could choose a range of sizes as it often fluctuates for me depending on the brand.
It’s definitely a money-saver
There are three monthly plans to choose from that vary in price, the number of cases per month, and items per case. I chose the 7-Item Plan with one case per month for $119 ($99 the first month) because it sounded like the best bargain to me at only $17 per item. Most of Armoire’s collection retails well over $100 per piece, so this was a major win in my book!
There’s also a 4-Item Plan with one monthly case for $89, and for the real fashionistas, the Unlimited Plan includes six items per case and unlimited cases for $249 a month ($139 the first month). All plans include free shipping and returns.
My personal taste is fully in the driver’s seat
With my quiz completed and plan chosen, I was off to the races with an initial selection of recommendations based on my preferences. None of these made the final cut, but they definitely sent me in the right direction.
I have a feeling the more you use Armoire, the more intuitive it will become to the nuances of your style. Versatile outfits that can easily morph from daytime professional to happy hour chic with the switch of a shoe or blazer is always my goal.
I chose seven very distinct pieces that felt uniquely me, and at that point, the only thing left to do was wait for my case to arrive! 🤞
The moment of truth arrives
Overall, I was so pleased with my choices. It felt like Christmas opening my front door to a case brimming with neatly folded threads!
My absolute favorite was the Gold Jumpsuit by French Connection, which fit perfectly and was comfortable enough to wear all day long. I also loved the Top by Hutch, especially with the Mini Skirt by Paige. The top’s royal blue shade is stunning and the fringe gives it a playful touch in contrast to the edgier style of the skirt.
The Pants by Brass were cute but a little long for my shorter legs, so they looked more like '70s flares than the intended ankle-length sailor cut. The Derek Lam 10 Crosby Trousers and Blazer was a fierce, professional and funky number—a total power suit!
Unfortunately, the Red Jumpsuit by French Connection didn’t fit, but I still consider six out of seven a total win.
The final verdict
Armoire delivers on so many fronts: quality, convenience, affordability, and saving time. I also love the ability to purchase your favorite items at members-only prices. There's alleviated stress with coverage of minor damages, free cleaning, and the ability to cancel or pause anytime. And returning items is easy in the reusable bag with the prepaid return label provided (though actual packaging may vary).
I’m honestly thrilled I took a leap and welcomed Armoire into my boudoir. I’ve gotten so many compliments on my fresh fall wardrobe and have new insight into my personal style!