By Erin Caizley
A Facebook page based in Perth which helps women rent designer clothing has attracted more than 3,000 users in less than two years.
Clothes For Rent – Perth offers an online forum where individuals can rent out their designer clothing to others for a lower price than if they were to buy the garment brand new.
Twenty-year-old Chantal Perich, of Mount Pleasant, started the group in 2014.
“I noticed a few girls asking in clothes for sale Facebook groups if anyone was renting ball dresses for school balls, because it was unjustifiable to purchase a dress worth $500 plus to a school ball that might not be their own,” Ms Perich said.
Natalie Rolt stylist Ella De Thierry says that although women should support designers, she sees nothing wrong with hiring out clothing.
“At the end of the day, it’s your garment and you can do what you like with it,” Ms De Thierry said.
Chantal Perich believes the group has brought Perth women closer together.
“It’s great to see girls coming together to help each other out and be ‘life savers’ by providing an outfit for a special event at such convenience.”
Twenty-two-year-old student Emma Brook says the group is a great way for her to make some money.
“It’s helpful for me if I’ve got an event on and I don’t want to spend $300 on a dress,” said Ms Brook.
“I’ve also made quite a lot of money renting out my clothes because I usually charge $30 to $40 per garment.”
The Facebook group is also helping girls who don’t have enough time to go to the shops to purchase an outfit.
“It is very convenient,” Ms Perich said.
“Just have a browse through the group, message the owner and organise a time to try and collect it.”