Production FAQ

Q: Why do you request Samples?

A: RTR requests samples as a means of shortening the time it takes for our product to hit the warehouse to when it is live on site. This is beneficial for all stakeholders and it alleviates strain on our warehouse when they are processing thousands of units from an order.


Q: I have received multiple sample requests for a single style from the RTR Sample Team - why is that?

A: There could be a few reasons. Since we love to style our incoming product with other styles we have also bought into, we may want to use the piece again in a future eCommerce shoot. We understand your samples are in demand across the board not just for RTR. We may also have editorial and/or social shoots that require samples as well.


Q: If I send VPI, do I still need to send samples? Or vice versa?

A: Yes! We request both samples and VPI for all products as this only helps us get product processed quicker so it will be able to go live on site.


Q: What do you use Vendor Provided Imagery for?

A: It is used for many purposes. Still Life and On Model imagery that is submitted for accessories will be used for our eCommerce website. Any images for accessories that are not approved for site by our retouching team, can be used for our operations team. On Form and On Model images for Apparel are stored in case we need to utilize them to post to product to our website due to a shut down of our internal studio. This is our contingency plan to ensure we can still move forward with our incoming shipments being available to rent by our customer.


Q: What size images are needed for Vendor Provided Imagery?

A: At least 1080 x 1620 pixels.


Q: What if I don't have imagery that size?

A: Please still send, we can still use for our internal operations.


Q: What if I can't send On Model Imagery due to model usage constraints?

A: You can request that we crop the models' faces so that they are unrecognizable. If you are not able to send any on model images at all, just sending still life will work.


Q: What if I don't have any imagery to provide at all?

A: Not a problem! We understand some vendors may not have imagery shot, use other means of getting imagery themselves, etc. In this instance, we would definitely want to receive samples so we are able to shoot at our internal studio prior to our full stock orders arriving at the warehouse.


Q: What if I don't have imagery OR samples made/available?

A: If you will have either or both made EVENTUALLY, please reach our Sample Coordination Team know so they can schedule them into a later shoot. If both or either will NEVER be available, please let our Sample Coordination Team know so they can prep for shooting from our stock order. We are able to receive Top Of Production Samples, pulling a size from our bulk order, however, this must be approved by the Buying Team in order to move forward.


Q: Who should I reach out to regarding VPI and/or Sample questions?

A: samplecoordinator@renttherunway.com; This team will most likely be reaching out to you soon, if not already, for VPI/samples.