We all accumulate more clothing than we need. Most people haven’t chatted with someone about their closet and heard the other person say they feel they have just the right amount of clothes and wear everything they own. So what can you do with the surplus? Hosting a clothing swap is a fun and effective way to pare down excess clothing.
What Happens at a Clothing Swap?
Friends gather together and exchange unwanted clothes for pieces they would actually wear and love — including not just clothing but accessories like sunglasses, hats, wallets, and purses. Books and other items are also sometimes traded at clothing swaps.
How Many People Should I Invite?
The number of people you can invite depends on the amount of space you have available. Every person should have at least a few feet to display their items. You also need room for people to walk around comfortably, space for snacks and drinks, and potentially a makeshift dressing room area. Make sure to give attendees enough advance notice to not only RSVP but also clean out their closets.
On the invitation, provide guidance on the number of items each person should bring, as well as the types of items that will be accepted (such as sunglasses, purses, and shoes). If desired, suggest a quantity of items to bring in the invitation details. Also, make it clear whether you’ll accept home goods like games or kitchen items in addition to clothing. Specify that all items must be clean and in good condition.
Should I Serve Snacks and Drinks?
Providing snacks and drinks is always recommended. Choose food and beverage options that don’t require attention or heating so people can munch freely throughout the event. Have your choice of beverages available as well. Keep the snack area separate from the clothing displays to prevent any accidental spills.
How Does the Swapping Process Work?
A fun system is to give each attendee a token for every item they contribute. Guests can then “purchase” an item with each token — this ensures each person leaves with the same quantity they brought. Using poker chips as tokens works well. It’s also wise to have spare bags on hand for everyone to take home their swapped treasures.
What Other Types of Items Can Be Swapped?
More than just clothes can be swapped. Host a clothing swap one month, then a children’s swap the next time. Kids’ clothes, shoes, sports gear, and toys are all very tradable. For a kid’s swap, invite parents with children of varying ages.
Another enjoyable swap possibility is games and books. How often do we play or read something once, then shelve it, never to be touched again? If you’ve received lots of gifts over the years that you felt too guilty to donate, swapping is a great way to find them new loving homes.
What Should I Do With Whatever Is Left?
Have a plan in place for anything not claimed at the end of the swap. Schedule a pickup with a charity or be ready to drop off donations at Goodwill while running errands that week. This will keep unswapped items from cluttering your home while ensuring they go to good use.
FAQs About Hosting a Clothing Swap
What's the best way to advertise a clothing swap?
Word of mouth and social media are great ways to spread the word about your clothing swap. Create an invitation to email and post online. Ask friends to share the details with anyone who may be interested in attending.
How early should I ask for RSVPs?
Aim to have your guest list finalized one to two weeks in advance. This gives you time to plan accordingly and allows guests time to go through their closets. Follow up as the event gets closer to get a firm head count.
What if guests bring many more items than expected?
If space allows, simply adjust your token guidance so everyone can take home more items. For future swaps, be very clear in your invitation about sticking to the number of items each person should bring.
Should I categorize items by size or type at the swap?
Organizing the items by category makes it easier for guests to browse efficiently. Use racks for hanging items and tables for folded clothes and accessories. Having a “free” section for items guests can just take is also a nice gesture.
What if guests don't claim all of their items by the end?
Tell guests up front that any unclaimed items will be donated after the event. This incentivizes them to be choosy about what they take home.
