Looking for a fun way to refresh your spring wardrobe? Why not host a swap party! It’s an economical and enjoyable way to get rid of gently used clothing and accessories, pick up some new wardrobe additions, and have a fun evening together with friends.

Here are some basic tips:

Invite as many people as you like, though available space will likely dictate the most comfortable number.

Consider inviting friends who generally wear the same size.

Have everyone bring at least 10 items to swap; this gives everyone plenty to choose from. Be sure to indicate what is worth swapping – no soiled or damaged clothes or old sneakers, for instance.

To keep everything even, make sure each person only takes as many items as they originally brought to swap.

Take a few minutes to set out all of the items boutique-style – hang clothing and handbags on hangers, set shoes on a rack, display jewelry on pretty trays.

Serve fun and festive food to refresh busy shoppers. Why not have a Saturday morning brunch swap and serve muffins, fruit, coffee and mimosas? Or do an evening event with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, or even dessert and coffee?

Swap parties don’t have to be limited to clothing and accessories. Try a party for swapping household decorative items, kitchen gadgets, or children’s toys and games.

Decide what to do with leftover unclaimed items. Consider donating items to your local thrift store, Salvation Army or Goodwill store.

So grab those clothes languishing in your closet, call up a few friends and host an evening of fashionably free shopping…swapping.

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