Swap some clothes!
Clothes swapping has become something of a fashion phenomenon over the past few years, but what exactly is it and how can it help the environment?
Well, it works on that old principle of 'one mans junk is another mans treasure' and that translates to your unwanted wardrobe items becoming someone else's fashion paradise.
We're all guilty of buying clothes that we'll actually never wear, just stuffing them into the back of our wardrobe to be forgotten about.
The trend for fast-fashion has made this a lot easier for us to do, as we buy things cheaply and it doesn't matter if we don't ever wear them. We chuck them out without a second thought, to make room for more new items, that will inevitably end up in the trash.
Undoubtedly this is bad for the environment and this is where clothes swapping parties come in to the mix. They help make a home for all those unwanted items, and the best bit? you get some (almost) new clobber in return.
Your party can be organised on as small or as large a scale as you like, but the most important thing to remember is to have fun. Although there is a serious message behind the event, by keeping it light, it doesn't feel like people are being forced into helping a cause.
We've got some tips on how to throw the perfect clothes swapping party...
Don't offer rubbish:
This may seem obvious, but everyone needs to bring unwanted clothes and shoes that are in good condition. Offering rubbish on the table defeats the purpose of the event, if everyone brings clothes that aren't fit to wear, then chances are it will be a disappointing evening.
Provide Food and Drink:
This will relax yourself and your guests, only make sure to keep any beverages away from the clothes on offer.
Suss the clothes:
Get your guests to take it in turns to describe their swap items that they've brought. This way all your guests get to see what is potentially up for grabs.
Swapping Space:
Make a space for each swapper to display their clothes and let your guests loose to find their next fashion find.
Donate:
At the end of the night, any items that are left, bag up and donate to your local charity shop.