Clothing Swap: Alternative Ways to Re-stock Your Closet
As you can probably tell we love being thrifty here at AHS and what better way to refresh your wardrobe this fall than with a classic Clothing Swap!? Not familiar with these fashion-forward get-togethers? Not to fear, we’ve connected with our close friend and favourite clothing swap host Maryana to tell us what it is, why it matters, and how to run your own so you can have fresh looks without spending a dime.
What does a clothing swap entail?
Imagine that pair of jeans you got on sale in 2021 that you couldn’t return. They were good, but something wasn’t quite right about them. They’ve been sitting in your closet for months or years, just waiting to be worn, but every time you put them on, you know you have a better pair. Instead of throwing those jeans out or donating them, you call up your friends or coworkers or neighbours and see if they too have clothes they aren’t reaching for. Imagine, a gathering of people with excellent taste (or surprising taste!) and a low-risk, fun environment to shop without dropping extra dollars. That’s a clothing swap!
Why do you love clothing swaps?
It’s a fun and sustainable way to spruce up your closet! As consumers, we’ve become very aware of how wasteful the fashion industry is, especially with the rise of fast fashion. Up to 100 billion garments are produced by the fashion industry every year. And each year, as much as 92 million tons of clothing end up in landfills. Hosting clothing swaps is my small contribution to fighting against fashion industry waste, but individual action doesn’t replace collective action, of course!
What's the best thing you've gotten from a swap?
Too many to list! Most recently, I got a blue button-up with a leaf pattern from Nicole’s mom’s closet. It’s such a gorgeous pattern and it’s become my go-to for busy meeting days. Another one is a faux leather jacket with a faux fur trim from Steph. Throw that on with a pair of booties and hoops, and that’s a slam dunk!
What are your top three tips for hosting a successful clothing swap?
1. Great vibes: Make a playlist of all your favourite songs, light a candle, and set the mood! Make yourself and the people you’re hosting feel comfortable and relaxed.
2. Great food: The worst thing is trying something on when I haven’t eaten. I want to have some snacks, so I know how I’m gonna feel in the clothes realistically. If I have to skip a meal to fit into that dress, I’m skipping the dress.
3. Be open: You may have a specific fashion sense or you may be experimenting. Whatever the case, the people you’re hosting will bring things you might not vibe with at first glance but may fall in love with when you try them on. That’s the beauty of the clothing swap, the element of surprise!
What do you do with the stuff that isn't taken/swapped?
In the past, I’ve reached out to local shelters and asked if they were accepting donations. If so, sort through the stuff! Some things may be in great condition, while others not so much. I wouldn’t donate anything I wouldn’t wear myself. I’m also big into bartering communities in the city, if someone offers a bottle of wine for that big bag of clothes, I save that bottle of wine for the next swap. It’s the circle of life!
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