How to Organize a Clothes Swap

A clothes swap is a great way to de-clutter your closet and enjoy guilt-free shopping at the same time. Swap participants bring unwanted or unused clothing to a meeting place, where everyone "shops" for a new (and free) wardrobe. Organizing your own clothes swap is a great way to get people together and have some fun.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Unwanted clothing
• A swap venue
• Several tables
• Refreshments (optional)

1. Select a venue. If you are planning a small swap amongst girlfriends you can host the clothes swap at someone's home. If you are planning a larger swap, you'll need to find a venue such as a hotel banquet room or coffee shop. If there is a reservation fee involved, consider charging a nominal entry fee for the swap, to recover your costs.
2. Spread the word. Set a date for your clothes swap and start spreading the word. Talk to your girlfriends and encourage them to invite their own friends.
3. Set the ground rules. Everyone who attends the swap will want the opportunity to find treasures, not trash. Make a list of swapping rules (like no holes, no stains, etc.) and share them with the participants beforehand.
4. Set up the swap. Label several tables beforehand with clothing types (such as jeans, dresses, shorts, etc.) When the guests arrive, ask them to sort their clothing onto the tables.
5. "Shop" until you drop. Enjoy the free "shopping" spree with your girlfriends.
6. Donate the leftovers. Chances are, you'll have leftover items when the swap has ended. Pick a local thrift store or charity (such as a homeless or domestic violence shelter) and deliver the remaining items to them.

Tips & Warnings

• If two people are eying the same item, make it fun by having them draw straws or flip a coin to determine the winner.
• Set up a private dressing area or encourage the swappers to wear bathing suits underneath their clothing, so that they can try things on.