How many times have you stood in front of your closest and just stared inside and thought to yourself, “I have nothing to wear?!”, when that clearly isn’t the case. Probably a few more times than you would like to admit. But its okay, we all do it! Now the real question is, how do we fight that insatiable urge to head straight to the mall and buy something new? Simple – host a swap party! Think of it like borrowing a shirt from a friend, only better!
Here’s how it works. Round up a couple of your closest friends. We recommend five to ten. This way, you have some diversity. Then set a number of how many articles of clothing, purses, shoes, and accessories everyone must bring in order to participate. It’s important that everyone bring the same amount in order for the swap to be fair. Then make sure to display your items neatly. Presentation is everything; you want this to be an experience like a spa night only with clothes and jewelry instead. Next, draw numbers. This will provide the shopping order and keep things fair! Each shopper will go in order and get to select one item, repeating the order until there are no options left or everyone feels satisfied with their choices.
In order to ensure that this is fun for everyone, all items should be in good or like new condition. The point of this is to get rid of things you know that you are absolutely never going to wear again. So, if you are having second thoughts about offering up that dress you bought to one day wear to your friend’s wedding…when she finally gets engaged, then keep it. But if you know you are never going to wear that teal blazer you bought for a mixer last spring, put it in the pile. This is the time to take all those impulsive purchases and set them free, then replace them with something you like better FOR FREE!
Also, don’t be afraid to get creative. Come up with fashion inspired cocktails and snacks. Set up fitting rooms, or make everyone personalized shopping bags. You could even have a little fashion show at the end of the party to showcase what everyone picked! The event can be as understated and casual or as formal and over the top as you want it to be.
And just remember – if your friend took home that blouse you had your eyes on, you can always borrow it!