The place and applicability potential of the clothing rental model in the sharing economy: The case of Selçuk University

With the rapid advancement of fashion, clothing rental models (online wardrobe) have emerged as a new business field in order to reduce environmental damage and meet consumers' immediate needs. This model represents the reflection of the globally expanding sharing economy in the fashion industry. The main purpose of this study is to examine and evaluate the perspectives of students at Selçuk University regarding the clothing rental model. The study was conducted with students studying at Selçuk University in the province of Konya, using a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected through a web-based questionnaire, distributed via social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram as well as via email. The questionnaire was prepared using Google Forms and administered to 402 students who voluntarily participated in the study. The survey consists of two sections: the first includes demographic questions such as age, gender, education level, marital status, monthly clothing expenditure, social media usage, and level of environmental awareness, while the second section includes the evaluation and classification of the survey items. Data obtained from 402 participants were analyzed, and the validity and reliability of the Online Wardrobe Scale were tested. The results indicate that the clothing rental model offers environmental, economic, and social benefits. Changes in consumption habits, individuals' increasing tendency toward sustainability-oriented preferences, and the need for efficient use of resources suggest that this model may be more widely adopted in the future. The findings of the study conducted with Selçuk University students reveal that individuals hold positive attitudes toward this model, particularly motivated by environmental concerns and economic savings. Keywords: Clothing Rental, Sharing Economy, Clothing Sharing