Clothes swapping is the latest craze hit the UK. It first became popular in the US, where groups of friends joined together to swap clothes and accessories that they no longer wanted. Clothes swapping events have now become big news with both large and small scale events being organised all over the UK.
Clothes swapping is probably the ultimate guilt free alternative to shopping. It helps to reduce waste and the environmental impact of manufacturing new clothes. Clothes swapping comes at a time when consumers are becoming more aware of the ethical and environmental credentials of their fashion. People are also keen to recycle and reuse in an attempt to reduce consumerism and its damaging effect on the planet.
Clothes swapping parties have also become really popular as they are a great way to get some new clothes, catch up with friends and have fun. Sustainable Communications consultancy Futterra Communications have given clothes swapping parties the name ’swishing’, after the sound made by silk. Their website www.swishing.org gives loads of information on how to hold a swishing parties and even has invitations to download.
Basically, it is quite simple to organise a clothes swap. Invite your friends along. Each should bring one lovely piece of clothing that they no longer want and would like to swap. The clothing should be in great condition and something that someone else would love to have.
At the beginning of the clothing swap, all the clothes should be laid out for everyone to browse and the rules explained. This is also a good time to serve drinks and nibbles and for everyone to have a chat. You can then count down to the beginning of the swap. Once the swap begins, everyone can grab which ever pieces of clothing they want.
Futerra suggests a very simple set of rules:
- When the swish opens, whatever people take is theirs
- Everybody must bring at least one item but can leave with as many as they like
- No one can claim items before the Opening of the Swish
You could try adding a bit more interest to your swap by adding a sewing machine for an crafty friends to alter or customise clothes- a great way to get some unique and individual clothes.
You could also try swapping your clothes online at www.posh-swaps
picture of Rag&Beau clothes swap, 23/04/09 from www.swishing.org
