Los Angeles-based Wild West Social House is shaking up the fashion industry with its innovative approach to luxury clothing. Founded by Max Feldmann and Kyle Julian Skye, the company offers a members-only club that combines high-end fashion rental with a luxurious social experience.
More than just rental: Launched in August 2023, Wild West has evolved from its initial focus on stylists needing to refresh their stock. Today, it caters to a broader audience, including fashion enthusiasts and young consumers priced out of traditional luxury brands.
The million-dollar closet: Memberships start at $299 a month, granting access to a curated selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories valued at up to $3,000. Higher tiers offer additional perks like free delivery, unlimited rentals, and tailoring services. This provides members with a “million-dollar closet” for a fraction of the cost of owning the clothes themselves.
Sustainability and trend awareness: Wild West addresses the issues of fast fashion and excessive consumption. Members can rent on-trend pieces without contributing to clothing waste. This caters to the social media generation’s desire for constant wardrobe updates.
A clubhouse experience: The physical space is integral to the Wild West experience. The flagship in LA offers fitting rooms, tailoring services, a social parlour with food and drinks, and even a gallery space. This creates a luxurious and community-oriented atmosphere.
Scaling beyond LA: Recognizing the national demand, Wild West plans to launch an online store and a distribution centre in New York. This will expand their reach and offer a more convenient option for geographically distant members.
Balancing online and offline: The challenge lies in replicating the clubhouse experience online. Wild West plans to offer personalized consultations through video chat and prioritize fast delivery options to retain the feeling of a curated experience.
Future plans: The company remains open to where it will focus its expansion. While a New York flagship is confirmed, decisions about future locations will be based on the success of their e-commerce venture.
Overall, Wild West Social House presents a compelling model for the future of luxury fashion. By combining rental with a social element, they offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for trend-conscious consumers.
