Meet and Greet at the Fashion Swap
By Jillian Bietz
As the economy continues to weaken and society becomes more and more economically conscious, the art of clothes swapping has become increasingly popular. It's even become a social event. All over the world, frugal fashionistas-even celebrities-have raved about clothes swap parties. You'll score some great items without spending a lot and catch up with friends. What better way to stay in touch and stay in fashion?
Decide how large you want the swap to be. Remember that the more guests invited, the more items available for swap. The best idea would be to invite fashion-savvy friends who'll bring friends and family members with them. A sufficient amount of guests equals a larger array of types of items and sizes. Save paper and send a festive invitation via email. Remind guests that only new or gently used items in good condition are permitted. Be clear that each guest must bring five (or however many you'd like) pieces, but the more the merrier. Encourage friends to bring more than clothes: shoes, accessories, books, and other knick-knacks are great ideas too.
You'll need a large, open space for the actual swap. Prepare ahead of time in case some furniture re-arranging is necessary. Make sure there are enough rooms/bathrooms for those who prefer to "try on" privately. Organization is key, or else things may get messy and clothes will end up rumpled on the ground in piles. You must have at least one full-length mirror. Set up rolling racks with hangers and tables to display clothes. Denote which area is for what (i.e. shirts, dresses, jeans.) That way, as guests come in, they can sort out their items quickly and the fun can begin.
Once everyone arrives, hand out the tickets. For every item someone brings they receive a ticket. Items are "bought" with the tickets. This is the best way to prevent inequality. If two friends are fighting for the same item, offer a compromise. Perhaps Jane will give let Annie take home the dress they both want if you offer her your three year archive of Teen Vogues as well as Susie's totebag she's always admired. If neither of them wavers, draw straws.
Though the main event is the clothing swap, don't skip a chance to socialize with friends and make new ones! Make sure there is plenty of sitting room. You want your guests to be comfortable. Blast your ipod with fun tunes and scatter fashion magazines on the coffee table for inspiration. If you have a TV available, pop a fashion-centric movie (The Devil Wears Prada, Breakfast at Tiffany's or the first season of Gossip Girl are great choices) into the DVD player. Make sure the volume is on low so you don't have to whisper conversations. And remember that a successful party must have snacks. But choose wisely because you don't want foods that will stain the clothes. So nix the fruit punch. Dole out bags for friends to take their items home in. If you want, make goody bags and fill them up with trinkets like stickers, candy-necklaces and plastic jewelry. Donate all extra items to a Goodwill.
Don't have time to throw your own swap soiree? Check out http://www.clothingswaps.com or http://clothesswap.meetup.com/ for an event in your area.
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