Jennifer Hyman is a visionary businesswoman who has made a significant impact in the fashion industry through her innovative approach to clothing rentals. Born on August 24, 1980, in New York, Hyman's entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age. She attended New Rochelle High School before pursuing her higher education at Harvard University.
It was during her time at Harvard that Hyman crossed paths with Jennifer Fleiss, her future business partner and co-founder of Rent the Runway. The two women shared a passion for fashion and a desire to revolutionize the way people think about renting designer clothing.
After completing her MBA at Harvard's business school, Hyman and Fleiss launched Rent the Runway in 2009. The idea was simple yet groundbreaking: allow customers to rent high-end designer dresses and accessories for special occasions, rather than buying them outright. This concept not only democratized access to luxury fashion but also promoted sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion.
One of Hyman's most notable achievements is being the 30th woman in history to take her own company public. Rent the Runway made history as the first company to go public with a female founder, CEO, COO, and CFO, challenging the male-dominated business world and paving the way for other women entrepreneurs.
In 2012, Hyman was recognized as one of Fortune Magazine's 40 under 40, acknowledging her as a rising star in the business world. Time Magazine also honored her in 2019 by including her in their list of the 100 Most Influential People, further solidifying her impact on the industry.
The inspiration behind Rent the Runway stemmed from Hyman's own personal experience watching her sister stress over the process of purchasing an expensive wedding dress, only to wear it once. This moment sparked the idea of creating a platform where individuals could rent designer clothing for special occasions, saving both money and valuable closet space.
Hyman's dedication to sustainability and female empowerment is evident in every aspect of Rent the Runway. By offering a diverse range of designer clothing options and promoting body positivity, she has created a brand that celebrates individuality and inclusivity.
Despite her busy schedule as a business executive, Hyman prioritizes her family life. In 2018, she married Benjamin Stauffer, and the couple now has two daughters named Aurora and Selene. Hyman's ability to balance her personal and professional life serves as a testament to her strength and resilience.
Diane von Furstenberg, a renowned fashion designer, was one of the first to recognize the potential of Rent the Runway and support Hyman's vision. This collaboration further solidified Hyman's place in the fashion industry as a trailblazer and innovator.
As Jennifer Hyman continues to push boundaries and challenge norms in the fashion world, her legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur is sure to inspire future generations of women in business. With her unwavering determination and passion, she has truly carved out a unique path towards success.