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THE BENTLEY + LACE RENTAL READINESS GUIDE

Renting a couture rental item shouldn’t feel confusing — it should feel exciting. Whether you're renting for your daughter, yourself, or coordinating siblings, this guide walks you through exactly what you need to do before booking, how to choose the best fit, and what to expect from your Bentley + Lace rental experience.

Your Rental Readiness Guide

Everything you need to know for a flawless couture rental experience
Start With Measurements

Start With Measurements

The Most Important Step

Children + Teens

Measure Chest/Bust, Waist, Hips, Shoulder to Floor (barefoot), and Shoulder to Waist for proper bodice and skirt alignment. These measurements ensure that the gown fits comfortably and moves beautifully.

Boys' Measurements: Suspenders & Suits

To ensure the perfect fit for our Dapper Boys suspender sets and suits, please measure as follows:

  • Chest/Bust: Measure around the fullest part of the chest, just under the arms.
  • Waist: Measure around the natural waistline, where the waistband of the pants will sit.
  • Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips for proper suit fit.
  • Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the ankle for pant length.
  • Height: Ensure your child's height is measured barefoot from head to toe for an overall fit check.

Adults

Take Bust (using the session bra), Waist, Hips, Shoulder to Floor, along with Height and intended heel height to achieve a precise couture fit. These measurements allow for the most accurate gown sizing, ensuring a flattering, photo-ready look.

Note: Our rental gowns are designed with specific length and fit adjustments for editorial posing, so full measurements are significantly more accurate than standard clothing sizes. Always review the complete gown specs provided in each product description to select the best fit.

Choose the Right Silhouette

Choose the Right Silhouette

Find Your Perfect Fit

Choosing the right silhouette ensures the gown complements the body’s proportions, enhances movement, and photographs beautifully. The ideal silhouette balances shape, comfort, and the overall aesthetic of your session.

Babies & Toddlers: Comfortable full skirts and soft tulle with bodices that flex as they move and play.

Children & Teens: A-line and petal-length gowns with adjustable backs that grow with them and photograph beautifully.

Moms & Adults: Elegant silhouettes featuring empire waists, fitted bodices, and flowing skirts for a flattering, effortless fit.

Boys: Dapper Boys suspender and suit sets crafted for a clean, stylish, photo-ready look.

Plan Your Color Story

Plan Your Color Story

Create Cohesion

Color coordination is key to creating timeless and harmonious photos. When selecting your gown, consider how the colors will interact with backdrops, family outfits, and the photographer’s set.

Soft Neutrals Timeless and elegant, soft neutrals like ivory, blush, and beige photograph beautifully in any setting, creating a refined, classic look.

Bold Jewel Tones Rich jewel tones like emerald and sapphire add drama and depth, especially in winter sessions or neutral settings, helping your gown stand out.

Pastels Perfect for fine-art moments, pastels like lavender and soft pink blend effortlessly with soft backdrops, creating a dreamy, romantic feel.

Family Coordination For siblings and parents, choose 2-3 main colors that complement the gown, ensuring the palette is cohesive and the focus remains on the subject.

Photographer’s Style Consider the photographer’s style. Light, airy edits pair well with neutrals and pastels, while jewel tones work better with deeper, richer edits.

Tip: Keep your color palette intentional and balanced. A well-coordinated look enhances your session, creating polished and stunning photos.

Add Accessories

Add Accessories

Complete the Look

Thoughtfully chosen accessories elevate the ensemble.

  • Headbands or crowns to match the gown
  • Sashes for added definition
  • Shoes, tights, or suspenders for boys
  • Small props like bouquets, ribbons, or shawls
  • Shoes play a pivotal role in styling
  • Keep accessories cohesive with the gown's color palette

Avoid over-accessorizing so the gown remains the focal point.

Review Shipping & Timing

Review Shipping & Timing

Know What to Expect

Rentals arrive 1–2 days before your session date.
Your ship date is determined by the session date you choose during checkout. On occasion, rentals may arrive earlier than anticipated. Early delivery does not affect your scheduled rental usage dates.

A prepaid return label is included.
Simply place the gown back in the original box, attach the label, and drop it off by the next business day after your session.

Do not wash or spot-clean the gown.
Bentley + Lace handles all professional cleaning to protect the delicate fabrics and finishes.

For rush orders, early arrivals, or special requests, contact support before booking.
We can often accommodate, but approval is required in advance.

Booking timeline:
Non-holiday sessions: Reserve your rental 3–4 weeks in advance.

Holiday sessions (Christmas, fall minis, Easter, etc.): Reserve 4–6 weeks ahead due to higher demand.

Prepare for Session Day

Prepare for Session Day

Final Touches

Try on your gown the day before to check the fit and feel—last-minute adjustments are a hassle.

Grab some comfy shorts or leggings to wear underneath for extra comfort and coverage.

Pack a lint roller and baby wipes—they’ll save the day when you need quick fixes.

Bring extra hair ties, snacks, and water to keep everyone feeling their best during the shoot.

Set aside time to prep the night before so you can relax and enjoy the session—no rushing!

Preparation = Less stress, more fun!

Contact Us About Gown Rentals

We're here to help you find the perfect couture gown for your special session. Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you shortly.
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