Thinking about trying clothing rental? Or looking for more sustainable clothing options? This Le Tote review will help you decide if you want to try it or not.
I love clothes, especially dresses and skirts. And cardigans, I have an obsession with cardigans. I don’t have a minimalist wardrobe. I know it’s trendy now, especially capsule wardrobes and more power to those that works for. It doesn’t work for me, it’s not what makes me happy.
There are a couple of problems though. I live in a mid-century home, which I love, but it’s small and has very small reach-in closets. I’m also currently losing weight so my size isn’t staying the same.
When I heard about Le Tote clothing rental I thought it was a possible solution for these issues and also an eco-friendly way to have a lot of variety in my clothing.
If you haven’t heard of Le Tote it’s kind of like Stitch Fix but instead of new clothes to buy it’s a clothing rental service. You pay a monthly fee and they send you boxes of clothes and accessories. You can keep items if you wish for a discounted price or send them all back and get a new box. It’s similar to Rent the Runway and Gwynnie Bee.
I was able to get a Le Tote free trial so I thought it would be fun to try it out. I thought it would also be fun to share my experience with you. This post is not sponsored, I do have affiliate links but this is my very honest Le Tote review and my experience.
My Le Tote Review
How Le Tote Works
- Sign up for your first box. There are two types of plans to choose from, monthly and unlimited. Monthly plans start at $79 a month and unlimited starts at $150 a month.
- Fill out your profile. The more information you give the better your box will be. You add details like measurements, colors you like, styles you like, and where you live so weather can be accounted for.
- Add items to your closet. You can look through the items available and add the ones you like to what they call your closet. This helps them know what items you like.
- Wait for your box to be styled. In one to two days your box will be ready and you will be able to look at what was picked. You can also change out what you don’t like. I honestly switched out most of my first box but I hadn’t added anything to my closet yet so it should get better.
- Get your box. I was shocked how quickly my box came. It was perfect timing for me to be able to wear the dress from the box out for date night. You can keep the items as long as you want (if you have a free trial you need to send them back before that ends to prevent being charged, otherwise there is no time limit).
- Send back or keep the items. If you love something you can keep it and they will charge you the discounted price. For the items, you are sending back simply place them in the postage paid bag, no need to wash them they take care of that as well.
- Get your next box. Once the bag is shipped they start working on your next box. The process starts all over again. When you have a full membership you can get as many boxes as you’d like in a month.
Pros of Le Tote
- You get to customize your box. When I first heard about this I figured I wouldn’t like it because I’m picky when it comes to clothes and I thought they would send me things I didn’t like. When I saw you could go in and switch items I was thrilled.
- You have to do less laundry. I don’t have to worry about if things are dry clean only and I have a bit less laundry to do.
- You can try things you wouldn’t buy. I’m using it to get out of my comfort zone a bit. I’m trying to pick things that I wouldn’t buy but I think I may end up liking.
- I don’t have to buy multiple new wardrobes as I lose weight. I hate buying clothes that I hope I won’t fit in soon. Seems very wasteful. With this service, I can get new items in my current size without having to feel guilty that I won’t have it long. While this doesn’t matter for me, they do have a maternity option which follows this same idea of not having to buy clothes in multiple sizes.
- It’s encouragement to get dressed. I’ve talked about the advantages of ditching the yoga pants and getting dressed each day and this is a fun way to do that. You get to try different clothes and you don’t even have to wash them.
- It’s eco-friendly. Clothing uses a lot of resources to make. However, I hate thrift shopping. I don’t like digging through a ton of stuff I don’t like to find maybe one thing. I know it saves a lot of money and is good for the environment but it’s not my thing. This allows me to have gently used clothing (everything I got was in perfect shape and seemed brand new) without the digging.
- They have high-quality brands. The brands they carry are good quality and also pretty trendy. If you follow me on Instagram you may know I’m a big fan of Kate Spade so seeing that that is a brand they carry was one thing that made me want to try it.
- You can get a new outfit for a special occasion. While they don’t have fancy clothing they do have nice dresses and other clothes that could be nice for a night out or special occasion. (If you are looking for fancy outfits, try Rent the Runway.)
- It’s great for traveling. I have used my subscription for travel. It’s nice to pick outfits that are perfect for the trip and you don’t even have to wash them when you get home!
- They have great customer service. I kept a bracelet from my last Tote and I was originally charged for the bracelet and the earrings I sent back. I emailed customer service and in less than 30 minutes I had an email with an apology and they went above and beyond to fix it. I’m actually happy about this mistake because it gives me a chance to share my experience for anyone considering trying the service.
Get 15% off of your first month of Le Tote with coupon code RETRO15 deal expires 8/10.
Cons of Le Tote
- It can be pricey for some. The cheapest option is $79 a month. That’s a lot of money each month. However, it’s cheaper than buying five name brand, high-quality clothing items each month. It can save you money depending on your clothing spending habits.
- The clothes are used. This honestly isn’t a con for me, it’s a pro but I wanted to add it since for some people it could be a con. If you have very sensitive skin you may want to wash things when you get them. I found they smelled lightly of soap but not enough to bother me and I tend to be very sensitive to scents. I also haven’t had any issues with my sensitive skin but it is something to keep in mind.
- You have to pay extra for insurance. It is $5 extra for insurance but I highly recommend it. It protects you if there is a stain or rip. I think it’s worth it and it’s not much but it’s something to keep in mind.
- They recently increased prices. When I my subscription in January there was a $59 a month plan and you got 3 clothing items and two accessories, and it was an unlimited plan. As of June 28, 2018, the rates have increased and plans have changed. I’m still on my original plan because they seem to have grandfathered in old members. For me, I think the price is still worth it. I also tried Rent the Runway Unlimited (review coming soon) and I find I wear and enjoy my membership a lot more. Rent the Runway is great for dressier events but for every day I’m still loving Le Tote.
Those are all of the cons I could think of. I really like the service and have already decided to try for another month. I’m not sure if I will keep it after that but possibly. Depends on how it fits in my budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What sizes do they offer?
They have up to size 16. They also help you get the correct size by having you share your measurements. - Why don’t you see everything you put in your closet when in swap mode?
The items in your closet are all of the things available they may not all be available at the time of swapping. You can wait and see if more becomes available. - Are you still using and enjoying Le Tote?
Yes! I starting in January and I’m still using it now. I get about a tote a week. I have kept a few items and still enjoy trying new things all of the time. I haven’t purchased any clothes outside of Le Tote since starting to use the service and I even cleared out a lot of clothes. It’s helped keep my closet a lot more organized.
Overall this has been a fun service to try out. I have thought about Stitch Fix for a long time but it doesn’t make sense while I’m losing weight. This service is perfect since I don’t need to worry about that since I’m not keeping the items long term.
After reading my Le Tote review, you want to try it out you can sign up here. Let me know what you think if you have tried it. Don’t forget to use coupon code RETRO15 for 15% off your first month.
Interesting! I think I just have trouble wrapping my head around “renting” clothing at that price. I can totally see how it would be great if you were losing weight and didn’t want to buy all new clothes though.
Yeah, I also just got another tote that I used to have a new-to-me dress for Valentine’s Day. I like it for things like that.
My friend tried it and loved it, but I never tried it! I’m more of a thrifty or sales type of shopper, so that would be too expensive for me. I know that I probably would want to keep it all!
The prices when you keep it are really good and you get a discount on your next month if you buy everything. They also sell the clothes on the site which could be a great option for thrifty people if you want to keep the clothes. Since they are gently used they are really good prices.
Love this review, Lisa! I’m looking into this service and your review hit some of my key concerns- primarily being able to change sizes as you are losing weight.
Are you still using this service and do you have any additional pros or cons to add now that it has been a couple months?
I am still using it. I really enjoy it. I actually just joined their Style Network because I love it so much. My feelings have stayed the same. It’s hard for me to spend the money on myself but I know long-term I’m saving money and I love having new clothes all the time without the guilt of buying new clothes that won’t fit me for long. It’s super easy to change your measurements and you can always pick your size. They just suggest based off of your measurements which size they think will fit, it’s nice because I’m busty and it helps me know if my chest will fit ha.
Did the options they show when choosing items to swap out change the more boxes you did? I just signed up and felt like the style was kind of boring and very business casual despite me putting on my quiz that I never wear/want work or business casual clothing. I cancelled since it seemed a waste to spend money on limited options for my personal style and they sent an email saying the boxes improve after 2-3 times. Curious your experience!
They add styles all of the time. They are starting to get more and more spring styles right now. Did you go to swap mode? I find the phone app to be the easiest place to search the clothing. I honestly almost always switch out the items from what they pick.
The price for “used” clothing is a bit high, I think. But considering the cost of taking clothes to the cleaners, I get that.
This will be my first effort, ever in this trend. Wisdh me luck!
I hope you enjoy it! I do love that I don’t have to pay attention to if things are dry clean only with this service. I’m wearing a dress and belt from Le Tote right now. I brought my whole tote with me on vacation and it’s great knowing I won’t have to do much laundry when I get back!
I thought this was a cool idea and decided to give it a try. Overall, shipping was fast, customer service was good and the cost reasonable. HOWEVER, I thought some of the clothing smelled musty/bad (some pieces I would not even try on!) the items I liked were never available.
Oh no, did you let customer service know? Mine always seem lightly of laundry detergent.
Lisa,
I agree with your take on Le Tote. I am pregnant, and the clothes have been perfect as I’ve been slowly getting bigger. Also their maternity selection is adorable- a great mix of business casual and straight up casual options. I also agree that I swap out the clothes they pick every time. That’s the main reason that I like this far more than Stitch Fix. With Stitch Fix, I never got what I really wanted. Here, I get what I want every time, and I get to try out cute maternity styles that I would never spend $$ buying otherwise.
I think it’s great that there is a maternity option. I’m glad you enjoy it as well.
I signed up for Le Tote a couple of days before reading this review, and my motives were very similar. I am looking for an updated look for the office, and don’t want to spend a ton of money or time on all the missteps I’m sure to make. I tried Stitch Fix — the fixed-price personalized styling that is apparently like Le Tote Select — but that seriously didn’t work for me. I’m hoping the rental option will enhance my weight loss journey also.
As for the price: When I consider all the effort I expend traveling to malls, outlets and thrift stores with the try-buy-return/donate treadmill, not to mention the trips for dry cleaning and loads of laundry (Thanks BTW… I hadn’t thought of that!), the monthly expense essentially cancels out. Seriously. I ran the numbers based on the amount of time wasted on weekends for poor results and it really is likely to come out the same. We’ll see, though.
I appreciate the authentic review, and will be happy to add my own experience to the mix for those who might be even more cautious than I am.
That is so true about driving around to try and buy new clothes! I live in a town with limited options so often went out of town for clothes shopping which added even more costs.
I’m glad you liked the review and thank you so much for adding your thoughts. Hopefully, they will be helpful for people. I’m still loving Le Tote. I did actually keep a dress this last time because it was on sale and I’ve rented it twice and love it. It’s also a style that will fit for a long time.
I like it so far, but I seem to have a problem with the tote swap option. When I go to swap out items I can’t see everything in my closet. I can leave the swap and see my whole closet, but then only about 6 or 8 things show up for swap. Did you have any problems like that? It is very frustrating when you plan an outfit and can only see one piece for swap. I may have to call and see if there is a problem with mine.
I think that happens when those items aren’t available at the time.
Ok, you’ve convinced me I’m gonna try it!! It sounds right up my alley since I do not really like to shop. If I can do it from my own home that’s great. Plus I leave an hour away from most clothes shops/malls.
I agree. I’ve kept a few things that I loved but mostly I just get new things each time and send them back. It’s like an endless wardrobe. I hope you love it as much as I have.
I am having the same issues as Jessi. I want to try to find a dress for a wedding for this Sat (5/19). I tried to customize my tote and there’s nothing in my closet…at least nothing that would be appropriate for the wedding. I called customer service and it’s just as Lisa says…when you try to swap and there’s nothing much in your closet, its because items are not available. They told me to check every day since they update the availability of their clothes. I ended up choosing 3 dresses in hopes one will work, but I have a feeling they won’t or the tote will not arrive in time. I have a feeling I will be running out on Sat to find something to wear. Thank goodness the wedding is at 4pm. Not sure I will be continuing with Le Tote, which is a shame since I loved the first tote I received.
I’ve been using it for a few months now and only once or twice have I had this issue and it was recently. From people I have talked to that have used the service, it gets a little harder for a bit each time seasons are changing. So hopefully soon it will pick back up.
I just customized my sixth tote (since 4/12, no less!) and I am really liking it. So far I’ve been a “one and done” shopper, and I like being able to wear an outfit, new earrings, purse, scarf, etc. then send it right back with a quick turnaround for the next one.
So glad you are enjoying it! I feel the same way, it’s so much fun to get to wear something new so often.
I want to try but I’m nervous. I’m size 16 and not sure anything would fit me!
They offer sizes up to 16 and they have you enter measurements to try and help you find the right size.
I really like Le tote! It is a fun way to always have something new to wear and keeps me from “impulse shopping” or feeling like there is nothing in my closet!
I find it hard to find specifically what you are looking for that is available in your size when you want it, so you have to be flexible. However, as long as you put a ton of options in your closet, there will always be fun things available to try! I’ve liked the quality of all items, and find their fit recommendations extremely helpful, so you always know what size to try or what items might not be a good fit!
I do find their search filters to not work very well, but if you play around and try searching a lot of different ways, you’ll just keep finding things you like to add to your closet!
Another tip – I’ve had a couple minor issues, but after filling out their contact form, they have replied promptly and given me an extra item in my next tote. It’s a great bonus!
I’m glad you enjoy it as well! It is fun to always have new stuff. The search is a bit tough but I try to check for new things often and keep my closet very full.
I’ve heard that from a few people that they often give you an extra item if there are issues with any items. I contacted customer service awhile ago for an issue and they were quick and gave great service.
I have been using them, no complaints about the clothes but they do get you on the price each month. They tell you to keep the clothing as long as want, but what they don’t tell you is that they still will charge you every month. You can’t get another tote (event though they charged you for it) until you return the first one. Then if you seem to be a month or so behind and try to freeze it, to again enjoy the clothes until whenever, they make you return the clothes ASAP so you really can’t enjoy them or keep them as long as you want.
Yes, you do have to continue the service to keep the clothes and can only have one tote out at a time. I get a tote about once a week. I like to have new things each week so this doesn’t bother me. If you like to keep them for a really long time it’s likely not worth the monthly fee. You can buy things from your tote though. You can even earn credits for buying things from your tote by referring other people.