Bright Idea: Clothes Swap Party!

Hey,

Some may not be able to relate to my New York experience. Perhaps there aren't sample sales where you are, or no chaos laced designer brawls. Well, here's an idea everyone can use: A Clothes Swap Party.

I actually attended one a week or so ago at a coworkers' crib. My coworker is a baking master, so she whipped up some cookies:

Provided Libations:

And invited 10 of her most fashionable friends over. All we had to bring were 5 pieces of gently worn but wearable clothing (read the stuff in our closet that we know we should love, but just don't find time to wear).

I had a few misgivings. First, I thought all my stuff would totally suck, and nobody would want it. Second, I was almost 100% sure that I wouldn't be able to find stuff in my size. Still, I went:


to socialize with my fabulous friends and colleauges.

After chatting, we spread all our wares around the apartment:


Turns out there was some great stuff. Good labels:

This one girl brought a pair of unworn Steve Madden peep-toe pumps:

They were too small for her and she waited too long to return them. What a find...I wish I were a size 8!

Anyway everyone found something. My one friend found this cute red dress:

Another friend went home with one of my sweaters. She's going to use it for her next ski trip (as she's demonstrating):

It gets lint on my hair, but she should't have a problem with that.

Personally (and surprisingly), I cleaned up. I would never think to buy this top myself, but it looked great on. Perfect for a night out:

I got this work-ready sweater and skirt:

And a few more random items that fit...I mean it didn't hurt because everything was free!


So the clothing swap was great for me. I found some cool clothes, had great fun, and didn't spend a ding dong dime. The party allowed me to take home items I wouldn't normally think to buy for myself...at no cost. Another plus: every item that didn't find a new owner went to charity.

So, to all my non New Yorkers (especially my buddies in the A), try a clothes swap party. And let me know how it goes!

Smootches!