Here’s How To Rent The Best High Street Pieces (Just In Time For Wedding Season)

We've all experienced that familiar frantic scroll through ASOS, in search of the perfect outfit that suits your formal event, that you could perhaps find a reason to wear again. That, or you take the risk of wearing the look, and then returning it within that dreaded 30-day window (without getting any red wine stains all over it). It's all rather exhausting. Well, it seems our prayers have been answered, as today it was announced that ASOS has collaborated with Hirestreet, a new rental platform, allowing you to rent ASOS gowns, as well as bridal and bridesmaid dresses.

From 23 May onwards, the ASOS x Hirestreet collection rents out an impressive array of over 180 designs. Each look is meticulously curated to cater to the taste of those looking for fancy attire that won't outstay its welcome in the wardrobe.

Is ASOS' New Rental Service The Answer To Sustainable Shopping?

As well as being better for your closet space, and your wallet (renting costs exponentially less than buying outright), ASOS' new rental service is also good for the planet. Jag Weatherley, Corporate Transformation Director at ASOS, spoke on the sustainability of the service. "Our customers love our wedding and occasionwear ranges designed for special events. We’re delighted our new partnership with Hirestreet enables even more people to enjoy ASOS’s unique fashion-led styles. Clothing rental is a growing market offering exciting commercial potential while supporting our goal to be more circular."

In terms of whether renting clothing is 100 per cent sustainable, the answer is still - not quite. You have to factor in transport emissions, as well as packaging build-up. However, in comparison to buying new clothing outright, which after one use may be disposed of, rental services offer an eco-friendly alternative. In the longer term, less new clothing is pumped out wastefully. "Extending the life of clothes by an extra nine months reduces its carbon, water, and waste footprint by around 20-30% each. It cuts the cost in resources used to supply, launder and dispose of clothing by 20%", concludes research done by the Global Fashion Agenda.

So, if you're sick to death of organising ASOS returns, this new rental service may be your new best friend. We've collated some of our favourite pieces that suit a variety of uncancellable events you may have to attend this summer.

RENT: ASOS x Hirestreet

ASOS' Rental Service: How Exactly Does It Work?

As described on the ASOS x Hirestreet website, "Find your favourite outfit, select your size, pick your rental period and choose your dates using the calendar. We recommend booking in advance if you can, especially if your event falls on a popular date!

All orders will arrive on or before your designated delivery date. Once your item has been dispatched you'll receive an email with tracking details. If your item arrives early don't worry. This does not impact the original rental dates you chose when placing your order. You just get to keep your outfit for a longer time!"

What's more, dry cleaning is taken care of for you. Wh_e_never you're done, just package and send it off from your Post Office before noon of your allocated return date.

With the summer wedding season in full bloom, the timing could not be more perfect. Selected from ASOS’ homegrown brands ASOS DESIGN, ASOS EDITION and ASOS LUXE, the edit includes Curve, Petite and Tall sizing options.

Browse the complete 180-style collection at ASOS x Hirestreet now.

Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for Grazia, specialising in fashion and beauty. She loves finding dupes for clothes worn in TV & film, and is currently binge-watching Succession.