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We Tried It: The Rent the Runway NYC Storefront

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Who tried it: Alex Apatoff, Senior Style Editor and Brittany Talarico, Associate Style Editor

What is it: The smash-hit website brings the experience to a storefront in NYC’s Flatiron neighborhood for those who are shy about renting online. You try on any number of looks in the store, rent them from the checkout and mail them back just like you would a normal RTR order.

Why we did it: We’re already well-versed in the online RTR experience (among our staff, we’ve rented looks for the Oscars, the Grammys and countless weddings) and when they invited us to check out the just-opened store before NYFW, we couldn’t resist.

Level of difficulty: Fairly high if you live out of town. Pretty painless if you’re down the street, especially if your stylist “clicks” with you right away.

Rent the Runway storeCourtesy Alex Apatoff


Brittany: This was my first time to the Rent the Runway shop, and I already can’t wait to go back. Not only was my wardrobe consultant helpful and accommodating, but I was also very impressed by how current and fresh the wardrobe stock is at the store. And during Fashion Week, you’re looking to shop some new fun pieces.

I would describe my style as trendy, which means sometimes I want to try out a trend for a few days, but don’t want to invest the money to own it. Basically, I’m the dream RTR shopper. I loved the dress selection and immediately gravitated toward a printed Clover Canyon dress (a brand I now plan to include in my closet). Another piece I loved? This asymmetrical Opening Ceremony design. The silhouette felt edgy, but because of the neckline it was still work-appropriate.

I also have a bit of a jumpsuit thing, and fell in love with this one-shoulder Haute Hippie look. (It looks great with a black moto jacket!) And on a final note, I went for a super trendster move and rented the Hollywood-favorite Elizabeth and James backpack for the week. And it’s totally a trend I would invest in.

Alex: The store is done really well: it’s chic, the music is great and there are lots of fun touches like adjustable lighting in the dressing rooms and accessories trays laid out with options (see the photos above). And it’s nice to be able to try everything out in person, no guessing on sizes or hoping that the accessories look expensive when they arrive. I loved getting a few different sizes to experiment with and to put whole outfits together at once, and I took home a few hits, namely this dress and these earrings. The most fun part? I got compliments on all my “new” clothes — it was an awesome way to reinvigorate my work wardrobe with pieces I’d never buy myself (like this dress).

The format wasn’t my favorite — waiting for my (extremely friendly and sweet) stylist Brittany to bring out two or three dresses at a time grew a little frustrating and time-consuming, especially as she didn’t seem to be “getting” my style (I asked for simple and streamlined and got a lot of funky and ultra-feminine) so she had to make multiple trips. If I did it again, I’d just ask her to bring out a ton in my size and do the selections myself. And of course (as is always the risk with wearing a rental) one of the dresses was in less-than-perfect shape when I put it on later (the hem completely came unstitched), so now I’d know to check it carefully before bringing it home — definitely a perk of renting in-store instead of online.

The verdict: We both agree that we’d happily go back for big occasions. One of the most fun parts of stopping by the store was seeing a mother of the bride try on a bunch of beautiful gowns and get positive feedback from everyone in the dressing room. And it was fun to try designer dresses way out of our comfort zone before putting down any rental money. So while there may be a kink or two to work out still (on the day we visited, there was some cash register drama) it’s hard to imagine a more fun shopping experience than getting a rack full of pricey, pretty looks all for yourself.

Intrigued? Have you tried the site yet? Tell us below!

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Music

(Video) KING FAME – Goin thru it

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Buffalo’s own rising star, King Fame, sets the music scene ablaze once again with the release of his latest visual spectacle, “Goin Thru It.” Shot on location in the heart of Buffalo.

With his signature blend of his raw delivery and poetic lyricism, King Fame invites listeners to join him on a journey of his pathway.

Turn the volume up as ” King Fame delivers powerful bars like this one, “The ones that wish you blessings, be the ones that curse you,” viewers are captivated by the raw honesty and lyricism.

Tap in with King Fame via
Facebook : Stmb Fame
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Instagram @Stmb_kingfame

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@42_Dugg Unleashes Brand New Single & Music Video For “Win Wit Us”

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Not everyone can be a winner. Detroit native and hip-hop sensation 42 Dugg is back with a fiery new single, Win Wit Us. The track, a precursor to his highly anticipated album 4eva Us, Neva Them, showcases Dugg’s signature style and lyrical prowess. In the brand new single, produced by FLEXONTHEBEAT, TyMaz, and Marshak, Dugg calls out those who try to ride his wave without putting in the work, cementing his stance in the rap game. The release is accompanied by an official music video directed by Counter Point, where Dugg and his crew dominate the streets and clubs of Detroit, visually reinforcing his message of loyalty and resilience. Dugg raps in the hard-hitting track:

All of sudden they wanna win wit us / But ain’t spin with us.

Dugg previously teased this new era of his music with a trailer featuring Hill Harper, further building anticipation among his fans. “Win Wit Us” follows a series of recent hits including Wock N Red, SpinDatBac, and Go Again. Earlier this year, Dugg made a triumphant return to the stage with a sold-out “Welcome Home” show at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena, featuring appearances by superstars like Meek Mill, Yo Gotti, Lil Baby, and more. Notably, the event saw Dugg unite Detroit’s rival hip-hop factions, Doughboyz Cashout and Team Eastside, in a historic move to end the city’s East-West beef. Fans can expect even more groundbreaking music from Dugg as he gears up for his upcoming album. Don’t miss out on the latest single available for streaming here and watch the music video below. Link up with 42 Dugg on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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Reckless Rhymacide Drops New Birthday Anthem “It’s Yo Birthday”

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Indianapolis’ own Reckless Rhymacide has just released his latest track, “It’s Yo Birthday,” produced by the renowned Whodunit Beats. This fresh spin on the classic “Happy Birthday” song brings a catchy vibe, making it a perfect fit for nightclub atmospheres and adult birthday parties. With its catchy beats and modern twist, the track is set to become a staple for birthday celebrations everywhere, offering a new, exciting way to mark the occasion.

Reckless Rhymacide’s “It’s Yo Birthday” showcases his unique flair for blending contemporary sounds with familiar themes, ensuring the song resonates with a wide audience. Whodunit Beats’ production enhances the track with deep, rhythmic basslines and sleek instrumentation, creating an immersive experience that draws listeners in. As the song gains traction, it’s poised to redefine how birthdays are celebrated, combining tradition with a fresh, energetic sound that captures the essence of today’s music scene.

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