Renting is not only for the tall, the short or size S: 8 myths about renting party wear
“I’m probably not the right height for rental.” “You only have size S.” “Renting is for people who look like models.” We hear these almost every week in our showroom – and almost every time the fitting room proves otherwise.
We are the Kostüümirent team, and we collected the most common doubts about renting party wear in Tallinn and wrote down what is a myth and what is true. Honestly, without polishing: where our selection is wide, where it is narrower, and what you can actually do so that a rented dress or suit fits like your own.
Myth 1: rental clothes are made for tall, model-height people
It is true that product photos show the clothes on models – and models are usually tall. But a photo does not tell you who a cut will fit. The length of a dress is only one variable; what matters far more is where the waist sits, how much volume the skirt has and whether the cut follows the body or falls loosely.
If you are on the shorter side, your friends are midi and cocktail dresses, a high waist and a slit – they lengthen the leg. A maxi is not off-limits either: a slim maxi with light draping works on a shorter frame too, especially with heels. In the showroom we look together at which length works with your shoes.
Midikleit Miranda 
Midikleit Émeraude Chic 
Kokteilikleit Crystal Ruffles
Pictured (from left): Midikleit Miranda, Midikleit Émeraude Chic, Kokteilikleit Crystal Ruffles.
Myth 2: there is nothing for tall people
The opposite fear is just as common: “The dress will end at my knee when it should reach the floor.” The long dresses and jumpsuits in our collection are designed for evening wear with heels, so they carry more length than you are used to in everyday clothes. On a tall person a maxi often sits exactly as the designer intended.
A jumpsuit is an especially rewarding choice for a tall frame – a long leg is the best friend of that cut. For men, our suit sizes run from 48 to 54, so a taller man with broader shoulders will find his fit too. Browse our jumpsuits and suits or come and try them on.
Kleit Midnight Drape 
Pükskostüüm Misunderstood 
Kleit Crystal Mermaid
Pictured (from left): Kleit Midnight Drape, Pükskostüüm Misunderstood, Kleit Crystal Mermaid.
Myth 3: renting is only for slim people and size S
This is the myth we most want to bust – and the one we want to bust most honestly. A rental collection is not like a regular shop where every model exists in every size. Each piece exists in specific sizes, and those sizes are always listed on the product page. Right now our women’s selection covers sizes XS to L, and men’s suits sizes 48 to 54.
Yes, a large part of the dresses are in XS–M. But L is not an exception: you will find it in dozens of models, from Kleit Midnight Luxe to Kleit Dusty Rose. There are also pieces marked with two sizes (S/M, XS/S) that fit two numbers, plus one-size kimonos and accessories that add shine to a party look whatever the number on the label.
Kleit Midnight Luxe 
Kleit Champagne Mist 
Kleit Dusty Rose
Pictured (from left): Kleit Midnight Luxe, Kleit Champagne Mist, Kleit Dusty Rose.
The most important advice: never judge a size by the product photo. Send us your measurements and height, or come to the showroom – we can see which cut gives your figure the most, and we will tell you honestly if a model is not a good choice.
Which cut for whom: a quick cheat sheet
Your situation | Cuts that work | Fitting tip |
Shorter frame | Midi and cocktail dresses, high waist, slit, slim maxi | Bring the shoes you will wear to the party |
Taller frame | Maxi dress, jumpsuit, long sleeves, men’s suits 50–54 | Check sleeve and trouser length, not only the skirt |
Size L | Satin, draping, wrap dress, A-line skirt | Check the available size on the product page – and ask if unsure |
Between two sizes | S/M and XS/S pieces, sets with separate parts, draped cuts | Try both sizes one after the other – easy in the showroom |
Not a dress person | Jumpsuit, blazer + trousers, bodysuit | A jumpsuit is more forgiving about height than a maxi dress |
Myth 4: renting is only for women
Our men’s selection is very real: more than twenty suits – the classic black Noir Label, the navy Navy Classic, but also velvet, pinstripes and sequins for those who want to stand out at the party. Sizes 48 to 54, plus shirts and gloves. Couples do well to choose their looks together: the photos are more coherent and the fitting is quicker.
Ülikond Noir Label 
Ülikond Navy Classic 
Ülikond Royal Pinstripe Burgundy
Pictured (from left): Ülikond Noir Label, Ülikond Navy Classic, Ülikond Royal Pinstripe Burgundy.
Myth 5: rented clothes are worn out or not clean
This fear comes from the days when the only place to rent was a costume hire. Our pieces are party wear and are treated as party wear: cleaning is on us, and you receive each piece party-ready – no washing on your side. The details are in our rental terms.
Myth 6: renting is complicated and takes time
It is actually simpler than buying, because the decision is smaller. Pick a piece you like in the online shop, book a showroom fitting and agree when you collect it. The standard rental period is up to three days, so you have time to prepare calmly and return the piece after the party. If you cannot come to Tallinn, check the delivery options.
Pick 2–3 favourites in the online shop, not just one – comparison is gold in the fitting room.
Book a fitting at least a couple of weeks before the party; earlier in December.
Bring the shoes and underwear you will wear on the night.
Try sitting, walking and raising your arms – not just standing in front of the mirror.
Agree the collection and return times, then enjoy the party.
Myth 7: renting only makes sense for a costume party
Costumes are a minority in our collection. Most of the selection is evening gowns, cocktail dresses, sets, jumpsuits, suits, coats and faux furs – everything worn at galas, company parties, weddings, birthdays, photo shoots and on stage. If dress codes raise questions, read our dress code guide; for the office Christmas party there is a separate selection of looks.
Myth 8: you cannot try before renting, so it is a gamble
You can. Our showroom is in Tallinn’s Krulli quarter (Krulli 2b, room 412) and fittings are by appointment – so the fitting room and our attention are yours alone. Message us on Instagram or by email and we will set a time. One-size pieces also work when you simply want something sparkly without a longer fitting.
Kimono Lavender Cloud 
Kimono Polka Noir 
Kasukas Scarlet Empress
Pictured (from left): Kimono Lavender Cloud, Kimono Polka Noir, Kasukas Scarlet Empress.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find a rental dress if I am a size L?
Yes. Each piece exists in specific sizes listed on the product page; the women’s selection currently covers XS–L. There are dozens of models in size L, plus two-size pieces and one-size kimonos.
I am short – will a maxi dress be too long for me?
Not necessarily. A slim maxi with heels works on a shorter frame too. If you prefer a safe bet, choose a midi or cocktail dress, a high waist and a slit – they visually lengthen the leg.
Will a dress be too short for a tall person?
Our long dresses and jumpsuits are designed to be worn with heels, so they carry more length than everyday clothes. Jumpsuits and men’s suits in sizes up to 54 are particularly good for a tall frame.
Can I try on before renting?
Yes, in our showroom in Tallinn’s Krulli quarter, by appointment. Bring the shoes you will wear to the party.
Can men rent too?
Yes. There are more than twenty suits in sizes 48–54, plus shirts and gloves.
Come and see for yourself
The best way to bust a myth is the fitting room. Pick a couple of favourites in the online shop, book a fitting and come – we will tell you honestly what fits and find together the piece that gives your party the most.
Read next: Dress codes decoded: black tie, cocktail and smart casual and Office Christmas party outfit ideas. Anything unclear? Have a look at our FAQ.
Comments