Tech Brew Ride Home (BNS) Jennifer Hyman Of Rent The Runway
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Oct 13, 2025 
Jennifer Hyman, Co-founder and CEO of Rent the Runway, reveals her entrepreneurial journey inspired by her tech-savvy family. She shares the pivotal Thanksgiving moment that sparked the idea for a clothing rental service and discusses navigating the challenges of launching during a recession. Hyman emphasizes the benefits of building a fashion-tech startup in NYC, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the city's early startup community. She also talks about validating ideas with designers and the importance of customer service in creating a successful business.
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Entrepreneurship Wasn't The Default
- Early-2000s career expectations prioritized consulting and finance, so entrepreneurship lacked clear role models.
- That cultural shift later enabled a generation to invent careers and pursue startups.
The Dress That Sparked Rent The Runway
- Jennifer Hyman and Jenny formed Rent the Runway after Hyman advised her sister to return a $4,000 dress because her closet felt "dead."
- They cold-emailed Diane von Furstenberg, met within days, and converted skepticism into strategic interest.
Align With Incumbents' Interests
- Winning over incumbents creates an industry-side value proposition beyond consumer fit.
- DVF's concern flipped once founders showed rental could make her brand relevant to younger customers.