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October 12, 2008 3:25:44 PM CDT

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Why Buy a Bag You Can Rent?

Posted Mar 25, 08 7:09 PM CDT in Arts & Living 

(Newser) – The economic downturn has fueled a surge in leased luxury goods, Portfolio reports. A small membership fee or monthly payment enables designer addicts to rent It-bags and other high-end accessories at businesses like From Bags to Riches. "Instead of owning an asset you can just buy the experience," explains a CEO who thinks luxury-goods makers will move into the sector themselves.

Well-heeled customers looking for more variety—or those who wish to appear bigger than their bank account—pay weekly fees for handbags, watches and jewelry that generally rent for 10-15% of an item's retail price. That might not be much of a bargain: A Rolex rented for five months from one company could have been bought outright for the same price.

Sources Portfolio, International Herald Tribune

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Formerly the exclusive domain of the wealthy and celebrities like Elle MacPherson, rental businesses are widening the market for luxury accessories.   (Getty Images)
A Louis Vuitton bag, which retails for thousands of dollars, can be rented for a fraction of the price.   (Getty Images)
GERMANY-FASHION-FAIR-IGEDO   (Getty Images (by Event) Individuals)
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fashion  • luxury goods  • jewelry  • fashion label  • rentals  • handbag


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