Fashion rental is booming right now, and for good reason. Not only does it offer an eco alternative to buying items you’ll wear rarely (or never) again, but it also means you can have maximum fun with your outfits, for a fraction of the price.
The only issue right now is that there are still very few destinations where you can try the clothes IRL before you rent them. This week, luxury retailer Flannels is changing that as it opens a massive in-store rental pop-up, curated by celebrated London stylist Leah Abbott.
Abbott is known for her iconic ‘90s and 2000s inspired styling work; dressing some of the most exciting up-and-coming and established tastemakers of the moment, including musicians Kali Uchis, Unknown T, Stormzy, Chris Brown, Jorja Smith and Celeste. When it comes to her edit then, don’t expect the usual Vampire’s Wife gowns and puff sleeve Ganni dresses.
The Dress-Up womenswear rental pop-up, which opened this week and will run for a month in the Flannels Oxford Street store, will carry an edit of youth-centric, sexy clothes that reflect the brand mix and style Abbott has built her career on: think Mugler and Coperni, The Attico and Jacquemus and accessories from By Far.
“I think in general rental has been boxed in as something we only look to when in need of a ‘special’ dress for a wedding or formal occasion when actually it’s just an opportunity to wear your dream item at any time,” says Abbott, whose favourite pieces are a Coperni mini, Laquan Smith co-ord and Dion Lee corset. “I want people to look at rental as something current and fresh that they can lean into on a casual basis as well as for important events. It’s super different to the other rental around right now.”
So whether you’re looking for something to wear to an event or a night out or simply want to give your weekend wardrobe a boost, this Oxford Street pop-up is well worth a gander. And if you do have a summer party you’re looking to loan for, Abbott recommends you “lean towards something bright and bold that you can then clash against contrasting accessories like a bag or sunglasses. Even if the pieces are super simple I love contrasting block colours to make it feel instantly more exciting.”
