Hosting a clothing swap is a brilliant way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a cent. It’s also a fun excuse to catch up with friends and maybe even discover a new favourite outfit. I still remember swapping a pair of jeans with a friend that ended up being my go-to for years. With the right prep, a clothing swap can leave everyone feeling like they’ve struck gold.
What is a clothing swap?
A clothing swap can be a great way to get rid of some of your unwanted clothes and pick up some fresh ones without the financial outlay of new clothes.
The concept of a clothing swap is based on the idea of reusing and recycling clothes, which is an environmentally friendly way to get a new wardrobe without spending money or contributing to textile waste and fast fashion.
At a clothing swap, participants bring clothing items that they no longer wear or want, and in exchange, they can select new items from the clothes that others have brought. The items can include anything from clothes, shoes, and accessories to bags, hats, and jewellery.
Clothing swaps can take many forms, ranging from informal gatherings among friends to larger public events that are open to anyone. Some clothing swaps may have a specific theme, such as a vintage clothing swap or a plus-size clothing swap, while others may be more general.
A clothing swap is an easy and great way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a cent. It’s all about trading the clothes you no longer love or wear for something new-to-you or swapping for exciting new pieces, making it perfect for anyone looking to save money and reduce waste.
The beauty of a clothing swap lies in its simplicity. It’s based on the idea of reusing and recycling what’s already in circulation. This means you’re not just updating your clothing items; you’re also making an environmentally friendly choice that helps cut down on textile waste and challenges fast fashion habits.
Clothing swaps can be as casual or organised as you like. They might be a laid-back afternoon with friends or a larger community event open to new faces. Some clothing swaps may have a specific theme, such as a vintage clothing swap or a plus-size clothing swap, while others may be more general.
Benefits of a clothing swap party
Clothing swaps aren’t just fun—they come with plenty of perks that go beyond refreshing your wardrobe.
From sustainability to saving money, here are some key benefits whether you are attending your first swap or hosting your own clothing swap.
Environmental sustainability: Clothing swaps promote environmental sustainability by reducing textile waste. Instead of throwing away clothes that no longer fit or are no longer in style, clothing swaps give them a new life by allowing them to be traded among people who can use them.
Cost-effective: Clothing swaps are a cost-effective way to update your wardrobe. Instead of spending money on new garments and breaking the budget, you can score amazing items at no extra cost.
Endless variety: Clothing swaps offer a wide variety of clothing options, including items that may be difficult to find in stores or that may be expensive to purchase new. Clothing swaps can also introduce you to new styles and fashion trends. You might even get some vintage finds, formal wear or a new pair of jeans.
Social connection: Whether you’re swapping with friends or meeting new people with shared interests in fashion and sustainability, these events are the perfect way to socialise and exchange style inspiration.
Giving back: Clothing swaps can double as charity events, with proceeds or leftover items donated to a good cause. It’s an awesome way to support the community while embracing sustainability.
How to pick clothing for a clothing swap
When picking clothing for a clothing swap, there are a few things you may want to consider to ensure that you are bringing items that are suitable for the event and will be well-received by others:
Check the rules and guidelines: Before selecting items to bring, be sure to review the rules and guidelines of the clothing swap. Some swaps may have restrictions on the types of clothing or accessories that can be brought, while others may have guidelines for the condition of the items.
Choose items in good condition: Clothing swaps are typically meant for gently used items, so be sure to bring items that are clean, free of stains or tears, and in good condition. It’s also a good idea to bring items that are in style and still wearable.
Consider the audience: Think about the types of people who will be attending the swap and try to bring different items that would appeal to them. For example, if the swap is for professional women, you may want to bring business attire rather than casual clothes.
Bring a variety of sizes: It’s important to bring different clothing sizes to a clothing swap to ensure that everyone has a chance to find something that fits. You can also bring accessories like scarves, hats, or jewellery that can fit anyone.
Bring items that you would want to receive. Finally, remember that the point of a clothing swap is to trade unwanted items. So, bring items that you would want to receive yourself and that you think others will appreciate.
How to host a clothing swap
What better way to freshen up your outfits than with some new finds that didn’t cost a cent?
There are a few things you will need to prepare before your first actual event, even if it is meant to be low-key.
Invite your guests
Pick your date, time, and location, then curate a guest list of your most stylish friends! Let them know if it’s just a clothing swap or if they are welcome to bring shoes, a bathing suit, accessories, books and other items.
To get the most out of everyone, consider inviting friends who have similar styles. That way, there is sure to be something for everyone.
TIP: Consider making Facebook event invites
Also, let them know that they need to bring clean items.
To share the load, ask your guests to bring a plate of food to share. Charcuterie boards are one of my favorite ways to serve food at a party or event.
Gather your supplies
To display the clothes, hang them on a clothing rack, clothes horses, or clothes airers in the living room or fold the clothes on the dining room table.
Don’t forget to warn your guests to bring their own coathangers!
A changing room, changing area or other private designated area can make everyone feel more confident in their choices..
I don’t know how many times I’ve seen something that looks amazing on the hanger (or mannequin), but it just doesn’t suit me when I put it on.
Some full-length mirrors wouldn’t go astray either!
Provide some snacks and refreshments, or ask your guests to bring something to share.
TIP: Ask your guests to bring their own shopping bag or basket to take their new wardrobe home in.
Make the Rules
Outlining some basic rules before you start will ensure your guests know exactly what they are in for.
Maybe you need to limit it to a maximum number of items. Or new clothing with tags on.
Window shop first – Make sure everyone gets enough time to window shop beforehand. Let them take notes on what items they like. You could even allow your guests to try on items before the real fun starts.
Take turns – let each person take a turn to shop, choosing the order by drawing straws or numbers from a hat. Limit the number of items to begin with. Maybe set a time limit or item limit per turn to keep it fair, and once everyone has had a turn, you can do another round or make it a free-for-all.
Currency – Use some form of currency, like pegs, one poker chip per item or numbered tickets. You receive one currency token for each item of clothing you bring.
Your biggest challenge might be that your guests fight over a number of pieces. So it’s important to have a rule in place for this. If more than one person likes an item after everyone is finished window shopping, auction it off using a predetermined currency or bid with real money and donate the proceeds to a charity.
At the end of the swap, donate
Donate all of the leftover clothing to an op shop or local charity.
And they get bonus points if they pick it up.
Where to donate what is left after your clothes swap party:
- Salvation Army
- thrift store
- Vinnies
- Fab Scrap
- Red Cross
- local op shop
Bring New Life to Clothes and Friendships
Your friends will surely love taking your unwanted clothing to their new homes. You can always host a swap event with different groups of your friends. Or invite all of your friends at once. It creates a sense of community and the best part is that your friends will meet a lot of people.
Overall, clothing swap parties offer a fun and sustainable way to get rid of old clothes, add new outfits to your wardrobe, save money and connect with your group of friends.
If you don’t want to host your own successful swap party, keep an eye out for swap parties at your local community centers.
