With the luxury fashion rental industry gaining momentum globally for its mix of sustainability, accessibility, and variety, Mexico is now joining this trend in a big way. Mexico’s fashion industry is undergoing a significant shift with the arrival of Retop, a pioneering platform that lets people rent luxury designer clothing, accessories, and bags for every occasion. Retop operates under the mantra “Rent, Reuse, Retop,” emerging as Mexico’s first showroom for high-end fashion rentals and meeting a growing demand for both sustainability and style.
How Retop Works
Retop’s platform is easy and intuitive. Customers explore a curated inventory of designer dresses, total looks, and accessories, searching by designer, style, event, or size. Rentals are available for 4 or 8-day periods, giving shoppers flexibility for back-to-back events. Unique to Retop is the “Plan B” feature: by paying a small extra fee, customers can have two dress options delivered and only wear (and pay for) the one that fits best. Shipping includes pre-paid return labels, and every item undergoes professional cleaning before arriving ready to wear. First-time users can try “Plan B” for free. Quoting the Retop Founders, “Retop was born as a solution to the pollution and wastage problem caused by the fashion and mostly fast-fashion industry, which comes to a huge cost to the environment,” highlighting that “ In addition, our customers spend less and we help designers reach a broader audience. What’s better than having an unlimited closet with more than 50 designers within reach?” said Retop Founders.
Ownership and Business Model
Retop is run by Retop, S.A. de C.V., based in Mexico City. Their model centers on the circular economy: keeping garments in use as long as possible to minimize waste and environmental impact. Pieces are carefully chosen after extensive trend research and suit Mexico’s market and sizing. “Our business model is based on the circular economy, which focuses on the practice of reusing resources and minimizing waste generation,” the Retop team explained. The platform collaborates with over 50 designers, from established icons to emerging talent, boosting their visibility and sales through short-term rentals.
Consumer Benefits
Retop delivers exceptional value by granting access to luxury pieces at a fraction of the purchase cost. Dresses retailing for over $29,000 MXN can be rented for just $2,200 MXN, putting one-of-a-kind designs within reach for special events or everyday style. The membership model offers further savings, up to 50% for clients who rent multiple times per year. Customers enjoy the perks of a rotating designer wardrobe without the need for storage, dry cleaning, or alterations, as these services are included or available for a modest fee. As the Retop team noted, “ Our mission is to educate our community and create a new mindset for the rental business, we want to show them that nowadays, the rental business is the smartest purchase.”
Opportunities for Designers & Partners
Retop’s reach extends beyond consumers. Designers benefit from rapid, real-world exposure and a new revenue stream as more people wear and share their pieces. The company also supports stylists, event planners, wedding parties, and even commercial clients with tailored rental packages and special discounts, helping professionals and groups look impeccable for less.
Market Outlook & Sustainability
Retop is poised to lead a booming sector: the global online clothing rental market is expected to reach $2.63 billion by 2030. Their hybrid approach, blending digital ease with in-person service at their Mexico City showroom, positions the business at the forefront of both e-commerce and sustainable fashion. As circular consumption becomes the new standard, voices across the industry emphasize that rentals are essential for the future of retail.
Retop’s mission is much bigger than just renting clothes. The company is building a community, aiming to educate our community and create a new mindset for the rental business, while forming new partnerships with local designers for broader reach and impact. As Mexican shoppers become more eco-aware and seek out flexible, premium experiences, Retop offers a model that is both stylish and sustainable, helping shift fashion in Mexico toward a more accessible, responsible, and fashion-forward future.
