Armoire

SUMMARY

Armoire is a Seattle-based fashion technology company offering a premium clothing rental service tailored for professional women. Founded in 2016 by Ambika Singh, Armoire provides a curated, data-driven wardrobe solution that allows members to rent a rotating selection of designer wear for a monthly fee.

HISTORY

Armoire is a Seattle-based clothing rental service founded in 2016 by Ambika Singh, a Dartmouth College and MIT Sloan School of Management graduate. The company was developed during MIT’s Delta V accelerator program and officially launched shortly after. Singh’s vision was to create a “closet as a service” tailored for professional women, offering them a curated selection of high-end, everyday clothing without the hassle of ownership or traditional shopping.

Singh’s inspiration for Armoire stemmed from her childhood experiences of sharing clothes with her cousins during family gatherings. She found joy in the variety and community that came with this practice. This early exposure to clothing sharing made the concept of rental fashion a natural fit for her. Additionally, during her time at MIT, Singh recognized the potential of personalisation technology in the apparel industry, which further influenced her decision to integrate data-driven curation into Armoire’s model.

Initially, Armoire catered to professional women seeking stylish workwear. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, as demand shifted from office attire to more casual and comfortable clothing. In response, Armoire adapted by introducing athleisure and loungewear options, maintaining its relevance and customer base during the pandemic. Post-pandemic, as workplaces began to reopen, Armoire experienced a resurgence, particularly in cities like Seattle, where companies like Amazon reinstated in-office work policies. This “return-to-office” trend contributed to a 150% growth in Armoire’s Seattle market.

The company has attracted a diverse group of investors, including Jesse Draper’s Halogen Ventures, Zulily co-founder Darrell Cavens, and other notable figures from the tech and fashion industries. As of 2025, Armoire continues to innovate in the fashion rental space, leveraging technology and customer insights to offer a flexible and sustainable alternative to traditional retail.

VISION

Ambika Singh envisioned Armoire as more than a clothing rental service; she aimed to create a platform that empowers women to express their individuality and confidence through fashion. By leveraging data and technology, Armoire provides personalized wardrobe solutions that cater to the dynamic lifestyles of professional women. Singh’s vision also includes a commitment to sustainability, aiming to reduce clothing waste by maximizing the utilization of garments through a rental model. The company’s approach challenges the traditional fashion industry by promoting a circular economy where clothing is shared and reused rather than discarded.

MISSION STATEMENT

Armoire’s mission is to support women doing big things—from massive stages to quiet revolutions. The company believes that clothing is more than fashion—it’s armor. The right outfit doesn’t just help you look the part; it helps you feel the power to do the things. By providing access to a curated selection of designer apparel, Armoire enables women to dress confidently and professionally without the burden of ownership. The service is designed to save time, reduce decision fatigue, and offer a sustainable alternative to fast fashion.

KEY TEAM

• Ambika Singh – Founder & CEO

• Kristin McNelis Marchese – Chief Marketing Officer

• Zachary Owen – Co-founder & former Chief Technology Officer

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Armoire offers a subscription-based clothing rental service that provides members with access to a rotating selection of designer apparel. The service includes professional wear, casual attire, and special occasion dresses, catering to the diverse needs of modern women. Members can select items online, which are then delivered to their doorstep. The platform uses machine learning algorithms to personalize recommendations based on individual preferences and feedback. Armoire also emphasizes sustainability by promoting the reuse and recycling of garments. Through partnerships with organizations like Dress for Success Seattle, the company extends the lifecycle of its clothing and supports community initiatives.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Armoire has been recognized for its innovative approach to fashion and technology. The company’s participation in MIT’s Delta V accelerator program helped refine its machine learning algorithms and business model. The brand has garnered attention from industry leaders and investors, securing funding from notable figures such as Jesse Draper and Darrell Cavens, which has fueled its expansion and technological advancements. Armoire’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement has further enhanced its reputation, positioning the company as a leader in the evolving fashion rental industry.