FAQ's
How renting works
How does renting a dress from SB Dress Hire work?
Browse our collection, choose your rental dates, and check out. We'll deliver your dress to you anywhere in NZ (or you can pick up free in Mosgiel, Dunedin). Wear it to your event, then send it back in the prepaid return courier or drop it back, standard cleaning is included, so there's nothing to wash.
How much does it cost to rent a dress?
Rentals start from around $30, with most dresses between $45 and $90, and some high end designer pieces up to about $135, a fraction of their retail price. Each dress lists its rental price and RRP so you can see exactly how much you're saving.
How long is the rental period?
All rental period's are 4 days, but you can request an extended rental if needed. Please contact us here.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as you can. Popular styles book out fast during ball, formal and race season, so once you know your date and size, we'd recommend securing your dress to avoid missing out.
Where can I hire a designer dress in NZ?
SB Dress Hire offers designer dress rental across New Zealand, with NZ-wide delivery and in-person try-ons and pick-up in Mosgiel, Dunedin. We stock labels including Aje, Rat and Boa, House of CB, Bec and Bridge, Kookai and more, in sizes 6–16.
Can I hire a dress in Dunedin?
Yes. We're based in Mosgiel, Dunedin, and offer free local pick-up and return plus in-person try-ons. If you're outside Dunedin, we deliver nationwide and offer postal try-ons.
Sizing & fit
How do I know what size to book?
Every dress lists the exact size we stock, the recommended fit range (for example "best on a large 6–8"), and a stretch rating out of 3, so you can match it to your usual size. If you're still unsure, book a try-on or message us before you book.
What if I'm between sizes?
Check the stretch rating on the listing, a 3/3 stretch dress is far more forgiving than a 0/3. For no-stretch styles we usually suggest booking your true size or a try-on first. We're always happy to give you a personal recommendation, so just get in touch.
Do you have dresses for a fuller bust?
Yes, many of our styles have built-in cups, adjustable lace-up backs or stretch that suit a fuller bust, and we note this on each listing. If you'd like help finding a supportive style, message us and we'll point you to the best options.
What sizes do you stock?
We currently stock dresses from size 6 to size 16, and we're growing our range across all sizes. You can shop directly by size using our size collections.
What if the dress doesn't fit on the day?
The best way to avoid this is a try-on first, every listing also shows the recommended fit and stretch so you can book with confidence. If you are a local pick up we are happy to arrange a swap in the event your dress doesn't fit, please contact us to arrange this.
Try-ons
Can I try a dress on before I book?
Yes. We offer in-person try-ons in Mosgiel, Dunedin, and postal try-ons for anyone outside the area, so you can check the fit before committing to your event date.
How do postal try-ons work?
We post the dress (or dresses) to you to try at home, then you return them the same day as delivery, before booking your rental dates. Please note discount codes and store credit can't be used to book a postal try-on. See how postal try ons work here.
Shipping & returns
Do you deliver dresses NZ-wide?
Yes, we deliver throughout New Zealand by courier, with returns starting from $10 for residential addresses. If you're local, free pick-up and return is available in Mosgiel, Dunedin.
Will my dress arrive in time for my event?
Short answer is yes, we schedule delivery so your dress arrives on or before your selected delivery or pick up date. Just book your rental dates around your event and choose carefully at checkout. If you're ever worried about timing, message us and we'll make sure you're sorted. There is always a small element of risk with renting that you may experience a disruption but this is very rare and unfortunately unlucky, and we will always been in touch if it looks like your rental may be affected.
How do I return my dress?
Use the prepaid return courier included with your rental, or drop it back to us locally in Mosgiel. Please don't return it via a street post box or unmanned drop box, as this isn't covered and can risk the dress being lost.
Do I need to clean the dress before returning it?
No, standard cleaning is included in every rental, so please don't wash or dry-clean it yourself. Just send it back as is in the return packaging.
Damage & the damage waiver
What is the damage waiver?
The damage waiver is an optional add-on at checkout that covers minor accidental damage and cleaning, things like a broken zip, a small seam repair, loose threads, or a small mark that comes out with cleaning. It gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy your night without worrying about little mishaps.
What does the damage waiver not cover?
It doesn't cover loss or theft, irreparable damage (rips, tears, holes or burns), large stains that can't be removed, late returns, or incorrect returns such as using a post drop box. The waiver also applies to one item per order, so add it to each dress you'd like covered.
What happens if I damage or lose the dress?
Minor accidental damage is covered if you've added the damage waiver. For damage beyond repair or a lost item, you'll be responsible for the replacement cost, and the dress must still be returned to us even if it's been damaged. Treat it with care and you'll be completely fine.
Is the damage waiver available on bag rentals?
No, the damage waiver applies to dress rentals only, so please don't add it to a bag hire. Bag rentals also require ID at the time of booking.
If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to contact us here.