Julie's Reviews
All reviews by Julie
TOP CONTRIBUTORTOP CONTRIBUTOR
51 reviews
Pattern is pretty cool, but fit is a little boxy.
Fit in shoulders is tight, but very loose around waist.
Member Fit Notes
Victor Jac Tattoo Blazer
Zadig & Voltaire
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Too big
Cool pattern, but way too big.
Member Fit Notes
Madsen Cardigan
Candela
Size Worn: M
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Ventilation!
You already get the idea that this dress is the perfect mix of classy & sexy, yadda yadda but what you MAY not know is that it's also designed for maximum temperature comfort. The fabric is thick enough that it keeps you warm on a cool evening, but the waist and bottom skirt are open so that you don't burn up under the sun or in a really stuffy van/bus that's getting you from the ceremony to the reception (many of my dress fails are on such awful rides...) Anyway, it was a hit at an upscale Mexican wedding in Oaxaca.
White Floral Lace Ruffle Dress
Nicole Miller
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Fit like a glove, a stunner standout
I loved this rental for a classy early summer winery wedding in the Barossa Valley, Australia. I travelled for two weeks with this dress in my suitcase and it stuffed ( yes, stuffed) into my carry-on and came out with no wrinkles. It's light, sophisticated, and just easy to wear. The top is well fitted--shows off cleavage without being overly ridiculous--and the bottom is forgiving enough so you can actually eat everything on the table. I wasn't super in love with the matching sash (it would look cuter with something metal and edgy) but it does make the waist more put together.
Multi Printed Peach Maxi
Badgley Mischka
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Gorgeous!
I didn't end up wearing this for the occasion (Summer wedding) because it's quite heavy, but I loved the intricate detail and fit! Would probably rent forreals for a spring wedding.
Valley Bloom Gown
Marchesa Notte
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Too big and awkward
Good on the model, bad in real life. Too much fabric for a 5'4 frame.
Duo Wonder Cape
Donni Charm
Size Worn: ONESIZE
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Silhouette wasn't flattering, although it's a nice idea!
I liked the concept from the photos but I didn't like how this dress looked on. I have a large rib cage and this felt too snug. Also I felt that it was a little too low cut to be an proper work event dress. The color is gorgeous though. The draping... wasn't all that flattering. I think this boxy shape requires someone with a more defined waist aka not me.
Plunge Neck Draped Slit Dress
J. Mendel
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Perfect choice for a work- related party
Light and airy, beautiful pattern, a sophisticated but playful choice for a work event. The little stretch and flared bottom makes it easy to wear and flattering... even after a large meal!
Garden Floral Asymmetrical Dress
STYLESTALKER
Size Worn: M
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Looks heavy and expensive, but actually easy to wear
I'm always wary of earrings like these (as they can be ridiculously heavy and taxing on my weaksauce lobes) but these were actually quite light! I was able to keep them on for the entire evening without discomfort. Not really the sparkliest of earrings, but still had a regal, formal vibe. Vintage gems, I suppose.
Pearl Floral Earrings
Slate & Willow Accessories
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Elegant and stunning, left some other wedding guests speechless
I rented this dress for a "semi-formal" #wedding at a fancy all-girls sleep away camp in the Adirondacks. For those ladies, who like me, aspire to tastefully overdress, this number helps you nail it. The intricate fabric is as impressive far away as it is close in. The high neckline is really the showstopper. If you have a skinny neck, however, make sure to bring a safety pin or double-sided tape. I can't say I have a large neck, but the collar still felt slightly loose on me. Otherwise, the fit felt just right, despite there not being any stretch. I think the texture of the dress helps with hiding imperfections. The tiny back zipper is (predictably) a pain in the butt to do/undo, but it's nothing that a seasoned girlfriend or husband/bf with a pair of needle nose pliers can't handle. The only "negative" thing that I can really say about this dress is how the white band will really make your boobs stand out. Bottom line: you're going to stand out and you're going to love it.
Black Lace Chiffon Gown
NAEEM KHAN
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 138lbs
Bust: 36C
Drapes in all the wrong ways
You need an epically long and broad-but-lean torso to pull this dress off. It didn't do any favors for my puny 5'4 frame.
Black Frances Dress
STYLESTALKER
Size Worn: M
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Luxurious fabric and flattering cut
When the wedding invite says, "cocktail attire" but you feel like showing up everyone... I'm between a 6 and 8, but the 6 was definitely too snug around the waist. The 8 fit pretty nicely, but top was a bit loose. The fabric is a dream. It's thick and rich in color. The high low hem lets you show off some fab shoes and a little leg...but more importantly, I'm prone to tripping on the dress when climbing stairs (despite my best efforts) and this allows you to avoid that awful situation altogether. And why can't all zippers be like that?? Large and easy to use. It makes those dinky side zips look ridiculously cheap. Last word: pockets.
Member Fit Notes
Cobalt Marilyn Gown
allison parris
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
If this isn't the BEST "Black Tie Optional" dress, I don't know what is.
I borrowed this dress for a black tie optional afternoon vineyard wedding in Sonoma Valley. It was a blazing 99 degrees that day, but the fabric and cut made it manageable to wear (TMI: If I was sweating through, the pattern hid it well. Ha!) I LOVED the silhouette and bold colors. And POCKETS! The back straps on the 8R were a bit loose on the side, but the 6R was too tight at the waist and wouldn't zip. To play it safe on such a hot day, I went with the 8. It was definitely a showstopper. (Random people walking down the street even offered compliments!) If it weren't so GD fabulously memorable, id definitely borrow it again.
Member Fit Notes
Multi Floral High Low Gown
ML Monique Lhuillier
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Perfect for day to evening
Wore with a white blazer and it was great!
Picture Frame Sheath
David Meister
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Felt too traditional / grandma-Like.
It looks gorgeous and fabulous on some of the other ladies, so I decided to give it a try. Sadly, I didn't experience the same results. The gold and navy just didn't look great against my skin. The draping puffed out in all of the wrong places. I felt double my age in it.
Luisa Gown
Marchesa Notte
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Ribcage was really tight. Did not end up wearing it.
If you have a wide ribcage, you might also find it impossible to zip up! The dress itself is cute and flattering, but had only the fabric been a tad stretchy, it would have been perfect!
Ivory Illusionist Sheath
ERIN erin fetherston
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
A perfect black tie dress that makes you stand out.
I borrowed this gown for a black tie wedding in Cape Cod. Like many other renters, I did not receive the belt so I had to improvise with my own. Luckily I had just the thing. Rose gold metal goes marvelously against the color and texture of this dress. I personally found the fit to be a bit small up top. I have a wide ribcage and could not zip up into my usual size 6. Fortunately since they didn't have the 8, I borrowed a 10 as backup. That size worked really well and it was very form fitting. The slit was very fun! It goes to kid thigh but there was at no time when I felt exposed. The colors aren't as contrasting as what it is in the photo, but it does photograph well. I guess the main takeaway is: say yes to this dress, but watch out if you have a big bust or ribcage.
Mirror Mirror Gown
GABRIELA CADENA
Size Worn: 10R
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
My husband loved this dress from a prior rental that I had to borrow again for our anniversary!
The fit is really flawless. It helps make it look like that I have a waist (even though I don't have much of one). The tulle is super fun and feminine. I would say that this has got to be one of the more girly stresses that I've borrowed.
Time of Your Life Dress
nha khanh
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Even in a room of sparkle, everyone still was eying my dress.
I got this rental for a friend's holiday party, where the dress code was "sparkly." So naturally, everyone wore sequins and glitter. The ornate pattern and metallic sheen of this dress really stood out amongst the crowd. The fit was flattering and comfortable -- nice length (not too long or short).
Copper Fleur Shift
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 6
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 134lbs
Bust: 34D
Simple, comfortable, easy way to stay in the spotlight!
I rented this dress for my own bachelorette party in NYC and it was a great choice. The dress was very comfortable to wear and gave a great sparkle without going insanely overboard. The cut was also sexy without showing too much.
Member Fit Notes
Dipped in Vanilla Dress
Theia
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Perfect for my Bridal Shower!
I really enjoyed wearing this bright peachy coral dress at my own bridal shower. It was cut to perfection and the subtle shimmer made it quite special. I paired it with a navy Club Monaco jacket, statement necklace and nude platform peeptoe pumps. Would have loved to wear it again for a summer brunch! The only thing to note is that the fabric does wrinkle when you sit.
Member Fit Notes
Sunkiss Glow Sheath
Yoana Baraschi
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Great cut, wish it were a little more opaque
I rented this for my own wedding rehearsal dinner but ended up not wearing it because it was a little too see-through. Also I opted for a more casual outfit -- this dress would've been perfect for a more formal indoor affair!
Member Fit Notes
Vanilla Scoop Shift
Moschino
Size Worn: 44
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Fit is nice, but fabric snags
I rented this for my own wedding rehearsal dinner but ended up not wearing it because there was a thread snag in the front of the dress. The fit is cute, although you have to like the half sleeve feel.
Member Fit Notes
Flutter Away Dress
Milly
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Bright and flattering, wish it wouldn't wrinkle so easily
The colors are undoubtedly pretty and the fit is great -- very flattering for those with little figure! It's a little short, but I don't have much of a bum so everything was kept covered. A couple things to know: the fabric wrinkles easily. It's noticeable across almost all of the photos on RTR. Despite this, I decided to give it a try. Just be warned that if you want to look crisp in your photos after sitting for a long time, try another dress. Or this would be great for an event that doesn't require sitting. The pink hemline beneath the blue skirt in front on my size 10 (US 6) also peeked through, but looked intentional enough that it didn't look "off."
Member Fit Notes
Weeping Blossom Dress
Matthew Williamson
Size Worn: 10
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Perfect for a dinner party!
This was my first Milly rental and I was quite happy with the dress! The fit was pretty easy going, but there's little stretch. The print is really bold and flattering. I'm constantly worried about looking too "boxy" in these kinds of dresses, since I have broad shoulders, no waist, and narrow hips. Fortunately this didn't happen with this dress. It pairs well with an assortment of accessories, including big, chunky necklaces. Fabric is a bit thin, so I'd recommend for either spring or fall. Not winter! brrr...
Member Fit Notes
Edie Zag Sheath
Milly
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Great alternative to the usual sparkles for NYE, didn't have to think about it!
I recently rented the RVN Reptile Dress (which I LOVE, perhaps even more than this one) and really liked the fabric/fit. So for NYE, I decided to try this one out. The pattern is truly one of a kind. Very eye catching, yet edgy. It's a challenge to put on, but if you elbow (literally) your way in, you'll be fine. The straps aren't as thick as what they look like on the model, and the length hits just above the knee (wished it was a tiny bit shorter). Overall, it was a great rental! But seriously, consider the RVN Reptile Dress instead ;)
Member Fit Notes
Rouge Puzzle Solver Dress
RVN
Size Worn: S
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Back didn't fit right -- I think my torso was too short?
I LOVED the fabric and the delicate shimmer, but unfortunately the fit wasn't super flattering. I have a pretty straight down / broad shoulders to narrow hips form and from the front, the dress looked way too boxy. The cut out back is super sexy, but it requires a slightly longer torso than I have to fill it out properly. There was about an inch of space that looked loose/floppy between my mid-back and the dress. I ultimately had to ask for an exchange. On the right gal, this would be a great birthday or bridal shower dress!
Member Fit Notes
Madeline Sheath
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Fun, fabulous dress for my birthday party!
Never had the guts to wear Herve Leger until now. This dress was a great success! The fabric is thick and and the form-fitting bandage effect was a lot smoother than I thought. my favorite part was the strategically-placed ombre effect, where the darkest shades were in the middle. In photos, it made my waist look smaller than it really is. I was also pleasantly surprised to see such a good price ($40!) Normally the Herve Leger's rent for $120+. RTR really came through for my birthday and I couldn't have asked for better service!
Member Fit Notes
Shoreline Sheath
Hervé Léger
Size Worn: S
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Elegant and Eye Catching
This dress was super elegant and lady-like! The sleeves and neckline is probably the best part. There is wiring under the curve in the front that sort of protrudes out if the dress isn't the right size. Fortunately I had no issues with the 6 (but did with the 8). I wore a red satin obi belt with it, but it also looked great without. Received a ton of compliments!
Member Fit Notes
Wine Glass Dress
Elie Tahari
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Stylish, but needs both hands
This was a very simple, elegant clutch but the chain always manages to get in the way of it closing. So it wasn't the most "user-friendly" -- as in you need both hands to close it up properly. Kind of annoying when all you want to do is party!
Member Fit Notes
Corsica Scale Clutch
Inge Christopher
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Stunning, head-turning, compliment-nabbing dress!
So I've rented about 15 or so dresses from Rent the Runway in the last 4 years and this piece is probably my FAVORITE thus far. It's super sexy, without being too revealing. The fabric is thick and stretchy -- kind of like one giant Spanx outfit. So it's comfortable, warm, and flattering. The pattern has a 3D textural affect to it, which makes undergarment lines basically invisible. The snakeskin print itself is unique and eye-catching. I wore it out to a friend's private birthday party and then to a bar in NYC's East Village. Besides receiving a ton of compliments at the party, the otherwise stoic bouncer at the bar even paid me a compliment. "Nice Dress." The only slight issue is getting in and out of the thing. There are no zippers so you basically have to slide into it like a swimsuit. I've learned to go arms first in, and then literally ELBOW my way out. It was impossible to get out of without using my elbows as leverage. I'm 5'4 and size S was just the right length. You can pull it down to get it just below mid-thigh or hike it up slightly higher. I paired it with a Helmut Lang cropped tuxedo blazer, glittery black platform stiletto pumps, and a kate spade handbag.
Member Fit Notes
Reptile Dress
RVN
Size Worn: S
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Received a ton of compliments on this gorgeous, glam dress!
I rented this for a friend's fabulous 30th birthday party in mid-December. I rented the 6 and 8 as a backup. The 8 fit ok, but wasn't as flattering as the 6. It also had a tear in the lace overlay on the side, which was annoying. This is the kind of dress you'd want to fit really snugly. The boning helps keep the structure, but at the same time, it was a bit constricting. The 6 looked BOMB on me, but to be honest, I could barely breathe. I was certainly not inclined to eat anything (not the best sit down dinner dress). I have wide shoulders and ribcage, but this dress helped minimize the appearance. Waist down, this dress was a breeze to wear (yay for narrow hips). Didn't have to wear a bra with it. Wore Wolford black thigh high tights to avoid having to deal with extra layers. Paired it with crazy high gold-beaded peeptoe platform stilettos and the rentable INGE CHRISTOPHER Corsica Scale Clutch. I received a ton of compliments from the guys and girls all night! Despite the discomfort, I loved this dress. It's wonderful for a "stand up"-heavy cocktail event.
Member Fit Notes
Nothing But Lace Dress
ML Monique Lhuillier
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Edgy look, normal fabric
Loved the straps on this dress, but I wish that I had ordered it a size smaller. This was a backup that ended up being better than my first choice. Unfortunately, I had it in one size that didn't quite work. Used a belt to cinch it a bit. I wasn't a huge fan of the fabric. It felt too casual for a NYE party. However, I could see this being a really nice day-to-evening work event dress.
Member Fit Notes
Straps Gone Wild Dress
ADAM
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Delicate and form-fitting, perfect for art gallery
I was sent this dress as a "last resort" for NYE 2012. It was pretty, but didn't fit the mood I was going for. The draping/layering was a little too loose in the back.
Member Fit Notes
Purple Spiral Strapless Dress
Christian Siriano
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Too much discomfort for too little statement
I think I have average sized wrists, but this bracelet was very pinchy. It might have been also due to the sharp tips of the design (yes, it looks a little painful and it is). Meanwhile the pattern didn't stand out as much as I thought it would. I'd pass on this piece.
Member Fit Notes
Gold Textured Cut Out Cuff
House of Harlow 1960
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
A ladylike, summer-centric frock
Summertime birthday party in Connecticut... need I say more? This cute little dress was very light, but a little constricting around the ribs/waist.
Member Fit Notes
Seely Dress
Shoshanna
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
How to make your event (or engagement shoot) epic.
This dress really nailed the look that I was going for during my engagement shoot at Lincoln Center. Overall, the fit was good. I'd say that there's a bit too much fabric in the back of the dress, which had to be clipped at certain times during the shoot. Although the 6R fit a bit more snug, the zipper was highly uncooperative. Also, the draping wasn't as good quality / texture as the 8R. It's odd that they put the side zipper on the side of the draping -- you'd think that they'd conceal it on the other side. Regardless, it wasn't too noticeable. I paired it with 5 inch platform peep toes. At 5'4, it made me just tall enough to walk around freely without stepping on the gown. There is a bit of tulle underneath the fishtail bottom which added some fantastic drama. Highly recommend this rental to anyone going to a black tie affair!
Member Fit Notes
Royal Treatment Gown
ML Monique Lhuillier
Size Worn: 8R
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
You can't be missed in this.
The fit is definitely loose, which is as intended. The fabric itself felt very plasticky, which made me feel like I had a poncho on. I think I ordered a size too big so I cinched the waist with a skinny gold belt. Because of the craziness of the pattern, adding a belt didn't look too disruptive. The sleeves are a nice length (especially if you feel conscious about your arms) and the boatneck is flattering. I would actually rent this again but in a smaller size.
Member Fit Notes
Graphic Paradise Shift
EMMA COOK
Size Worn: 8
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
Bold, eye-catching pattern makes a classy & sexy choice!
I rented this on a whim for a disco brunch at Bagatelle. I rented a 6 and 8 (I normally wear 8 but as of late have been able to fit fine into a 6 hooray) and the 6 fit like a glove. The fabric is stiff enough to give some form, but flexible enough so that you can still move around. The sleeves are a little restrictive -- it's difficult to raise your arms higher than chest-height, which was not conducive to fist pumping (which was probably a good thing). The high neckline is certainly conservative, but balanced out by the short length of the skirt. Be careful -- there IS a chance you may flash someone. The zipper is easy. My only complaint is that the black thread that makes up the pattern is a bit worn down. It's not noticeable from far away, but you can see the wear close up. The 6 definitely had less wear than the 8.
Member Fit Notes
Cap Sleeve Swirl Mini
Robert Rodriguez Collection
Size Worn: 6
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C
The sequins really stole the show
I wore this dress for an engagement shoot at Lincoln Center. It's really more of a black tie evening / red carpet dress, but I wanted the drama of the blush sequins against the crisp architecture. No surprise people around us were all staring and looking on. One lady walking her dogs walked over and said that I looked gorgeous. Definitely felt that way! Technicalities: zipper is a PAIN! Be prepared for that by allowing yourself some extra time. There is a small stitch that keeps the two front panels a bit more closed. On mine, it was broken which caused some extra cleave to show. Very fixable with a pin. The length on a R is perfect for a 5'8 gal. I'm 5'4 and wore 4.5" platform heels and managed alright. Photos by Jen Huang Photography.
Member Fit Notes
Glitz Gown
Badgley Mischka
Size Worn: 6R
Usual Size: 10
Height: 5' 4"
Weight: 140lbs
Bust: 36C